Traditional Music Performances by the National Gugak Center 

‘The Resonance of Korea, “Bridging the World with Heung”

The National Gugak Center presents an exquisite performance featuring Samulnori (traditional percussion ensemble), Gyobang Gutgeori Dance, and Pangut (folk percussion performance). This captivating stage combines the vibrant rhythms of Korean traditional percussion with graceful dance movements, offering audiences a profound experience of the essence of Korean performing arts. Join us for a mesmerizing evening filled with the energy, rhythm, and beauty of Korea’s traditional music and dance.

- Date & Time: Friday, November 7, 2025 – 8:00 PM / Saturday, November 8, 2025 – 7:40 PM
- Venue: Umm Al Emarat Park Amphitheatre, Abu Dhabi

* Admission is free and open to the public (no reservation required).

* The schedule is subject to change depending on local circumstances.

<The National Gugak Center>

The National Gugak Center is the heart of Korean classical performing arts. As a national institution, it traces its origins to Eumseongseo of the Silla Dynasty (7th century), later becoming Daeakseo during the Goryeo Dynasty (late 10th century), and Jangakwon of the Joseon Dynasty (established in 1466), before evolving into the institution we know today. The Center preserves a rich array of cultural and artistic heritage, encompassing court and folk music and dance passed down through generations, as well as modern compositions created for contemporary audiences.

<Program>

Samulnori

Samulnori, literally meaning “the play of four things,” is a Korean percussion music performed with four instruments: kkwaenggwari, janggu, buk, and jing.
Originating from traditional pungmulnori, it was reinterpreted for the stage in 1978 with one performer per instrument.
While pungmulnori was a communal outdoor performance, samulnori emphasizes artistry, precision, and rhythmic sophistication.
Its dynamic tempo changes and vibrant beats captivate audiences with energy and mastery.

Gyobang Gutgeori Dance (Gyobang Gutgeorichum)

The Gyobang Gutgeori Dance originates from Gyobang, traditional provincial art institutions that specialized in music, dance, and performance during the Joseon Dynasty. The dance begins with elegant, bare-handed movements performed to the Gutgeori rhythm, and as the tempo shifts to the lively Jajinmori rhythm, the dancer picks up a sogo (small hand drum) and continues dancing.

In the Gutgeori rhythm, the dancer expresses refined and graceful movements, while in the Jajinmori section, the vibrant and free-spirited style characteristic of the Gyeongnam region unfolds vividly. The dance is marked by movements that flow naturally from inner emotion, evoking the state of selflessness and harmony with nature described in Eastern philosophy.

Pan-gut

Pan-gut is a form of nong-ak, a traditional Korean performing art that combines percussion, dance, and theatrical elements to pray for community prosperity.
Rooted in agricultural society, nong-ak fostered unity and cultural creativity across regions.
Pan-gut features both group performances (Jinbeopnori) and solo performances (Gaeinnori).
It demands exceptional musical technique and dynamic stage presence from its performers.