Macomb, IL – A Buddhist monk group from Korea will visit just five US cities this fall, including New York, San Francisco -- and Macomb.
The monks are from the Young San Preservation Group. Their performance is called The Sounds of Ecstasy and Nectar of Enlightenment.
Siyoung Park of WIU's Center for Innovative Teaching and Research says the monks are preserving a culture that dates back more than 1,000 years. The ceremony will include two types of chants and three types of spiritual dancing.
The event begins at 7:00pm Wednesday October 24 at the COFAC Recital Hall. It's open to the general public. Tickets are $6.00.
You can listen to an interview with Siyoung Park by clicking on the audio button.
Additional information:
*The leader of the unique group, which is a part of The Korea Society, is the Venerable Dong Hee, the first female to join the monks lineage. For nearly 40 years, beginning at the age of 13, she trained in the performance of the Young San Ceremony under the direction of the Venerable Song-am Park.
*The group's virtuoso vocal techniques are marked by a special timbre, complex patterns and pure but heavy solemn tones. The skills are used to enhance the simple melodies, which are sung without strict rhythm and harmony.
*In addition to New York, San Francisco and Macomb, the monks will perform in Columbus, Ohio and at Oberlin College in Ohio.