This week on Jeju: A to Z, Todd Thacker takes a brief look at the Jeju International Wind Ensemble Festival. This annual event kicks off this week, bringing thousands of musicians and music enthusiasts together.

Cool down this summer with wind music! From August 8th through to the 16th, thousands of local and international musicians will come together to perform and compete in the island’s largest musical event of the year.

The 2019 Jeju International Wind Ensemble Festival and Brass Competition, which are now in their 24th and 14th iterations, respectively, feature Jeju’s beautiful natural venues as backdrops for the performances.

[Slug CG] 4,200 musicians from 25 nations to play at 27 venues

This respected and much-anticipated musical gathering is unique to the region. Every year it draws a growing number of performers, competitors, and lucky audience members. This year, some 4,200 musicians from 25 countries are set to participate at 27 venues around the island.

[Slug CG] Opening concert on Aug. 8 /
performed by Seogwipo Philharmonic Wind Orchestra

This year’s opening concert on Thursday at the International Convention Center Jeju in Jungmun will feature Jeju folk songs and works by Rossini and Handel. The Seogwipo Philharmonic Wind Orchestra and the Jeju / Seogwipo Union Choir will be conducted by Lee Dong-ho.

[Slug CG] Community concerts, haenyeo performances, /
youth wind festivals, maestro concerts and more

Also scheduled are community and maestro concerts, haenyeo diving women singing folk songs, and youth and exchange concerts, among other interesting events. A street parade, marching performance, and final celebratory concert will be held on Aug. 15 in Jeju City.

[Slug CG] jiwef.org/english/

For a detailed list of events and a map of the venues in English, you can consult the official website at jiwef.org/english.

[Slug CG] Todd Thacker

It is said that music has the power to bring people together in peace. Since Jeju is known as an “Island of World Peace”, it is very fitting that this remarkable event is hosted here. It’s an opportunity you won’t want to miss.

Todd Thacker KCTV