Jongmyo Jeryeak refers to the ritual music—including instrumental music, song, and dance—performed at the Jongmyo Shrine, where memorial tablets for the kings and queens of the Joseon dynasty (1392–1910) are enshrined. A work played for rituals dedicated to kings, queens or high officials with distinguished service to the country in the Joseon dynasty, and having been performed regularly since the 15th century, Jongmyo Jeryeak is regarded as the masterpiece of Korean traditional music.

Jongmyo Jeryeak was the first performing art to be designated an Important Intangible Cultural Heritage of Korea by the Korean government and was included as part of the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2001.

Jongmyo Jeryeak consists of Botaepyeong and Jeongdaeup pieces which respectively celebrate civil and military achievements of the Joseon kings. With ritual ideophones including pyeonjong (ritual bell chimes), pyeongyeong (ritual stone chimes), and banghyang (metal chime), playing major roles, string and wind instruments add melodies while singers present ritual songs with lyrics praising previous kings. Jongmyo Jeryeak conveys unique dignity and splendor in its own beauty.

Introduction by Kim Byeong-o (Concertmaster, National Gugak Center
Court Music Orchestra)

Venue: Jongmyo Shrine, Seoul

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