Franz Eckert: musical bridging between Korea and Germany
Throughout modern Korean history, numerous foreigners have dedicated themselves to the development of Korea across various fields. One such individual is Franz Eckert, a German composer and musician whose contributions to Korean music have left a lasting legacy.
On Aug. 6, the 108th anniversary memorial service for Franz Eckert was held at Han Gyeong-jik Hall at Yanghwajin Foreign Missionary Cemetery, Seoul. Attendees paid homage to Eckert's grave before enjoying a vibrant performance of the Korean Empire's national anthem by the Rainbow Wind Orchestra.
Eckert (1852-1916) was a renowned German composer who played a pivotal role in introducing Western music to Korea. Despite being unfamiliar with Korean society, Eckert dedicated himself to this mission after being invited by the Korean Empire. In 1901, he established the Korean Emperor Brass Orchestra, which performed the first Western-style concert at Pagoda Park, now Topgol Park, in Seoul. The orchestra, comprising both military and civilian musicians, played Western instruments and performed........
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