Jeonghyeon Joo
composer | haegeum performer
for 15 performers and video
commissioned by Sejong Center, Seoul, South Korea, 2025
premiered by Ensemble Blank, July 18⎼19, 2025
Duration: ca. 15 minutes
Instrumentation: 1 oboe; 1 clarinet (doubling bass clarinet); 1 bassoon; 1 french horn; 1 Bb trumpet; 1 trombone; 1 viola; 1 cello; 1 double bass; piano (4 hands); 4 percussionists; recorded video
Primitive Happiness uses various methods of contact with instruments to explore human interaction. The piece consists of five distinguishable but seamless movements that include visual elements such as video, performers’ gestures, and lighting cues.
Special thanks to Ethan Marks for proofreading and editing, Nev Wendell for parts editing, and Keun Ou Choi for collaborating on the video.
© Shin-joong Kim & Sejong Center
Audio (Full Piece): Download MP3
Video Excerpt (Movement I & II):
Full Score: Download PDF