Nanzhao Classical Music Ensemble from China will stage a rare performance featuring the “manwuyan,” shown above, which is the oldest playable instrument in the world at Myeong-dong Cathedral, central Seoul, Nov. 11-15.
By Lee Hyo-won
Staff Reporter

An 800-year-old Chinese string instrument ``Manwuyan'' will make its first, last and only international tour of Seoul, Nov. 11-15, before it is designated as a national treasure next year.

Those interested in a novel musical ― and historical ― experience will have a chance to hear the Nanzhao Classical Music Ensemble revive an ancient sound at Coste Hall in Myeong-dong Cathedral's Cultural Center, central Seoul. This is a truly unprecedented occasion, for the relic has rarely traveled within China.

When it was unearthed in 1998 in Yinnan Province, the manwuyan was in almost immaculate condition, being immediately playable despite minor damages by rodents. Several string instruments have been excavated so far, but none of them functioned. Verified as originating from the late 12th century, the manwuyan is the world's oldest playable instrument.

With 25 strings, stretching 1.7 meters long and elegantly bent at 34 degrees, the manwuyan can deliver a wide range of chords. It is an artifact of an ancient kingdom called Nanzhao Dali, and was created during the peak of its golden age amid a flourishing economy and culture.

The Chinese Cultural Heritage Administration has permitted the instrument to be played no more than five times a year. The manwuyan is currently in the process of being designated a Chinese national treasure, after which it will be virtually impossible for it to be performed before the general public, let alone travel.

In a performance titled ``Awaken the Melodies of Ancient Kingdom,'' the Nanzhao ensemble will play meditative tunes such as ``A Cow Herder's Song'' and ``Gao: A Chapter in Taoist Scripture.'' The ensemble is made up of senior musicians and traditional art masters, who have worked together for over 20 years to compile and develop their musical heritage.

``There is romance of Tibetan plateau, comforts of a vast prairie, and depth of philosophy transcending Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism in our music,'' said Yin Junhua, the director of the ensemble in a statement.

The program also includes pieces by local artists, such as a pansori (Korean opera) song ``Four Seasons'' and duet pieces by Chinese singer Yang Hong-wee and Korean folk musician Shin Nal-sae.

There will be six 80-minute performances, Nov. 11-15, beginning with two on Sunday, at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. and weekdays at 7 p.m. Tickets cost 40,000-50,000 won and a 20 percent discount is available for students and groups of 20, call (02) 3673-5633. For normal reservations visit www.ticketlink .co.kr or call 1588-7890. For more information, visit www.jiyutea.com or call (02) 3673-5633.

hyowlee@koreatimes.co.kr