The Korean Cultural Center of Los Angeles and Ilpa Gayageum Ensemble present a performance of “A Journey from the Past: Pursuing the Beauty of Classics” on Friday, July 13, at 7:30 p.m. on the third floor of KCCLA’s Ari Hall. Prior to the concert, on July 12 at 2 p.m., professors Myunghwa Jang and Hyesuk Jang will host workshop classes on the danso flute and Choi Ok-Sam-style sanjo gayageum.

The Ilpa Gayageum Ensemble is a group of professional performers who play the gayageum, a zither-like string instrument. (photo courtesy of KCCLA)

Choi Ok-Sam is noted for its deep, masculine, powerful vibes and Jajinmori rhythmic cycle.

Established in 1996, Ilpa Gayageum Ensemble is a group of professional gayageum performers in Busan and South Gyeongnam regions in Korea and has been one of the historic Korean traditional musical groups. The group’s repertoire features songs written specifically for the ensemble, as well as traditional folk and instrumental music.

“Ilpa Gayageum Ensemble has created repertoires inspired by indigenous musical characteristics of Busan region, and has earned popularity with their easy and entertaining performing style,” Nak Jung Kim, the director KCCLA, said. “Celebrating the summer vacation, I hope this event offers a quality time with the whole family, appreciating the profound beauty of our music that encompasses tradition and modernity.”

Admission to the class and concert is free, but reservation is required.

The performance is presented as a part of the Korean Cultural Center’s ARI PROJECT performing arts series, which features a rich program of performing arts programs including Korean traditional music and dance, modern fusion world music, jazz, royal court tea ceremonies, puppet shows and theater.

KCCLA is located at 5505 Wilshire Blvd. For information, visit kccla.org, or contact tammy@kccla.org or (323)936-3015.