[PERFORMANCE INTRODUCTION]
The subtitle "Da Capo" — a musical term meaning "return to the beginning" — naturally resonates with pianist Ji Yong's present, as he takes the stage for his first domestic recital in seven years since 2019. Having garnered international attention at a young age by becoming the youngest winner of the New York Philharmonic Young Artist Competition, he has journeyed through the glare of the spotlight and various artistic collaborations, only to quietly return to his "beginning" — sitting alone at the piano. This performance marks a meaningful occasion where Ji Yong, who has been active based in New York, unveils his increasingly refined and profound artistic world to domestic audiences.
This program is carefully curated to showcase Ji Yong's expansive repertoire and authentic interpretations. In the first half, Bach-Busoni's "Chaconne" and Beethoven's Piano Sonata No. 18 present solid structural beauty and dynamic energy, while the second half, featuring Arvo Pärt's "Für Alina" and Chopin's Piano Sonata No. 3, draws out deep introspection and lyricism directed inward. The program structure clearly manifests his musical aspiration to explore spiritual depth beyond technical perfection.
For Ji Yong, who has continuously pushed the boundaries of classical music with innovative attempts, this stage represents far more than a simple return — it is the first page of a musical journey that humbly begins anew from the starting point. Within a span encompassing Baroque and Classical, Contemporary and Romantic eras, the genuine and profound resonance he brings will touch audiences with warm emotion.