YONGSAN, South Korea - Soldiers, families and community leaders gathered to hear the sounds of the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, March 25 at the Yongsan South Post Chapel.
This was the first time the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music has performed a concert in Asia. The school’s first-ever Asia concert tour included four performances in Seoul, one of which was for the Soldiers at USAG-Yongsan.
“It definitely is nice to have them out here for us,” said Sgt. Rahim Robinson, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, U.S. Army Garrison-Yongsan. “It really makes you feel good to be acknowledged for our service and them taking their time out to perform for us … that is just phenomenal.”
Prior to the orchestra performance, President of Indiana University, Michael A. Mcrobbie gave some remarks.
“On behalf of Indiana University, let me express our thanks to base commander, Col. Eoff, as well as all the garrison leaders, for the opportunity to be here tonight.” He said. “Tonight¹s concert by the Jacobs School of Music chamber orchestra is a wonderful opportunity for all of us at Indiana University to show our appreciation for the men and women who serve our country here in Korea.”
Mcrobbie also didn’t forget to mention the Yongsan Garrison for its steadfast alliance.
“The Yongsan Garrison has such a rich history and holds much importance in U.S. foreign policy,” Mcrobbie said. “Both former President George W. Bush and former Secretary State Hillary Clinton expressed their appreciation for the American forces who have helped keep the peace in Korea now for more than 60 years and America’s commitment to continuing the robust alliance that has been built between the United States and Korea.”
The concert tour of Seoul was embarked on with a chamber orchestra of 36 students under the leadership of string faculty Jorja Fleezanis and Stephen Wyrczynski. The ensemble played four performances of music by Rossini, Copland and Mozart: "Overture to Il signor Bruschino" by Gioacchino Rossini, "Appalachian Spring" by Aaron Copland, "Symphony No. 35 in D Major, K.385" by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.