Blending literature and music: the 8th Hic et Nunc! Music Festival

Meanwhile here in Seoul

A classical music festival is underway and it's featuring a critically acclaimed French author as a guest narrator to blend literary works and musical notes.

Our Park Hyo-been files this report.

When story meets music, the stage itself becomes a novel.

The 8th Hic et Nunc! Music Festival is taking place across South Korea until September 5.

The festival's name, "Hic et Nunc," Latin for "Here and Now," reflects its spirit as a city summer festival that brings together classical music and other art forms.

Led by the Sejong Soloists, an ensemble that has performed over 700 times in 120 cities worldwide, the festival pushes the boundaries of classical music through bold experiments and collaborations.

This year's theme, "Companion Pieces," pairs works from different eras and styles to create something new.

Highlights include world-class violinists Gil Shaham and Adele Anthony, renowned guitarist Jiji's debut recital, and a performance by rising cellist Yeo Yoon-soo.

But the program drawing the most attention features best-selling French author Bernard Werber.

He takes the stage himself, narrating "The Time of Chimeras," a world premiere based on his latest novel, performed together with Sejong Soloists.

The story imagines a dystopian future after a third world war, where hybrid beings, part human, part animal, rise to dominate the earth.

Werber, who calls South Korea his "second home," shared his thoughts on the collaboration.

"When literature and classical music come together, we can reach a wider audience than books alone. Music can move people more deeply than words, because it is a universal language. My first rehearsal with Sejong Soloists was breathtaking. Composer Kim Texu's music held such complexity and power."

Often called South Korea's most beloved foreign author, he also spoke of his special affection for the country.

"South Korea is very precious to me. It's a nation of great resilience and energy. What amazes me most is the country's pursuit of perfection, not only in technology but also in the arts."

When imagination on the page turns into sound on stage, the Hic et Nunc! Music Festival once again captivates audiences with a stage beyond boundaries, here and now.

Park Hyo-been, Arirang News.