NY Philharmonic Plays in Communist North Korea
Concert Master Michelle Kim’s is visiting the place her parents escaped from– North Korea– so that they could have a better life. Although she is happy their escape made it possible for her to have a life of freedom, she is excited to be in the land of her heritage, although she is saddened by the poverty.
If music soothes the savage beast, it also transcends diplomatic barriers. Jim Dolan of ABC/Eyewitness News is covering the historic concert by our own NY Philharmonic in Communist North Korea. Check out his blog.
I saw a documentary recently on North Korea that changed my life. I had no idea what troubles they were facing. Like literally no clue to it. This philharmonic thing, if nothing, will bring some music to the ears of the otherwise distraught North Koreans. But I’m afraid that the venue and the marketing and promotion behind it will only encourage the madman who runs that country to somehow spin it into a promotion of dictatorship.
One thing I learned from watching the documentary was that since Kim Jon Il is no longer satisfied with the idea of "communism" even uttering the word could end up jailing or killing a person.
I hope that the North Korean citizens who receive this music use it as a means to enrich their lives and be encouraged to take non-violent steps towards a free North Korea.