Hearing-Impaired Youth Ensemble Delivers Moving Performance with 'History' Theme

The 20th regular concert of the 'Woori Financial x Snail of Love Clarinet Ensemble,' comprised of hearing-impaired youths, has successfully concluded, leaving a profound impact on the audience.

Held at the KBS Hall in Yeouido on the 22nd, the concert centered around the theme 'History,' featuring a diverse repertoire that spanned the past two decades. The young musicians showcased their exceptional talent and passion through symphony, tango, and K-pop numbers, demonstrating that music transcends boundaries.

Thirty-five members, who use hearing aids or have undergone cochlear implant surgery, performed pieces like Astor Piazzolla's 'Libertango' and Antonín Dvořák's Symphony No. 9, 'From the New World,' proving the boundless freedom of music irrespective of hearing ability.

Singer Kim Tae-woo and Bae Da-hae, along with broadcaster Ahn Hyun-mo, participated as special guests, lending their talents to the cause. Kim Tae-woo joined the ensemble for collaborative performances of 'Love Rain' and 'One Spark,' sharing messages of hope. Bae Da-hae also delivered a heartwarming performance, with Ahn Hyun-mo skillfully hosting the event.

Attendees lauded the ensemble's ability to master a wide range of genres, from classical to K-pop. Many were deeply moved, noting that the performance far exceeded expectations, especially considering the potential challenges of ensemble playing for individuals with hearing impairments. The members reportedly dedicated countless hours to practice, balancing their studies.

The concert was made possible with the support of the Woori Financial Future Foundation's 'Woori Rookie (Look&Hear) Project.' Since 2023, this initiative has been supporting low-income children and adolescents with hearing impairments through cochlear implant surgeries, device replacements, and speech rehabilitation.

Lee Haeng-hee, president of Snail of Love, expressed pride in the members: "It's remarkable that over twenty regular concerts, we've shown thousands of audience members that hearing-impaired individuals can express themselves through music." She added, "We aim to continue fostering a harmonious stage free from prejudice."

The full video of the concert will be available on the official Snail of Love YouTube channel starting next month.

Netizens responded with overwhelming emotion, commenting, "I teared up watching the passion of the young performers," "Music unites everyone, truly moving," and "Thank you to Kim Tae-woo, Bae Da-hae for their warm hearts and talent donation."