New York Philharmonic Orchestra in DPRK

In 2008, the New York Philharmonic Orchestra played an historical performance in Pyongyang. They were invited half way across the world for 48 hours, to visit North Korea and play to a North Korean audience.

Americans in Pyongyang documents this trip and the final concert in the East Grand Pyongyang Theatre. For the first time, American and North Korean musicians meet on stage and bond over pieces such as the USA and North Korean national anthems.

The most moving and memorable part of their journey, for me at the very least, is an extended version of Arirang, the song that is often called the unofficial anthem of Korea. This song embodies the heart and soul of many Koreans and is often used to unite people during sporting and cultural events. As a foreigner, its hard to describe the importance and significance this song plays in the minds of Koreans.

To hear it played in Pyongyang by a mixture of American and North Korean musicians is absolutely astounding. It hints at the possibility that one day differences will be forgotten and that the people of North Korea can unite with the modern world at last. I won't lie, there were tears in my eyes listening to this.

Watch a youtube version of the performance here: http://youtu.be/TGGPWy3UtdU