2013/09/06

the folk anthem of korea '아리랑(Arirang)'



Today I'd like to introduce to you 'Arirang'
 the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity designated as UNESCO
and the best beloved korean fork song as well.



 Arirang is a popular form of korean folk song and the outcome of collective
contributions made by ordinary koreans throughout generations.
 Essentially a simple song, it consists of the refrain 'Arirang,arirang,arariyo'
 and two simple lines, which differ form region to region.
While dealing with diverse universal themes,the simple musical and literary
 composition invites improvisation,imitation and singing in unison,
 encouraging its acceptance by different musical genres.

Now we'll listen the original song!!



Jazz version 'Arirang'
Arirang in jazz version is so nice that I really like to recommend you to listen.



(Text adapted from www.arirangschool.or.kr)

 Experts estimate the total number of folk songs carring
the title 'Arirang' at some 3,600 variations belonging to about sixty versions.
A great virtue of Arirang is its respect for human creativity,
freedom of expression and empathy.
Everyone can create new lyrics, adding to the song's regional,
historical and genre variations,and cultural diversity.
Arirang is universally sung and enjoyed by the Korean nation.
 At the same time, an array of practitioners of regional versions,including local communities, private groups and individuals,  actively lead efforts for its popularization and transmission, highlightingthe general and local characteristics of individual versions.
 
Arirang is also a popular subject and motif in diverse arts and media,
 including cinema,musicals, drama, dance and literature.
  It is an evocative hymn with the power to enhance communication and unity
among the korean people, Whether at home or abroad.