Berlin Philharmonic Masters to Perform Healing Concert Following Hair Loss Treatment in South Korea
A unique collaboration between world-renowned musicians and a leading hospital highlights the powerful connection between physical recovery and artistic expression.
Two principal musicians from the esteemed Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra – Albrecht Mayer, oboist, and Amihai Gross, violist – will present a special concert at Myongji Hospital in Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, on Thursday, December 6th. The performance comes on the eve of the orchestra’s highly anticipated engagement at the Seoul arts Center.
The concert, announced by myongji Hospital on December 4th, will take place in the hospital’s first-floor lobby at 12:50 pm local time. This extraordinary event stems from a personal connection between the musicians and the hospital’s Hair Loss Center.
A Journey of Recovery and Rediscovery
Albrecht Mayer, celebrated as having “the best oboe sound in existence” after 33 years as principal oboist – a position he attained at age 27 – underwent hair transplant surgery and other hair loss treatments at Myongji hospital. “Through the experience of regaining confidence on stage, the change in my body led to a change in my mind, and I want to convey that feeling of recovery through music and convey hope to patients,” Mayer stated.
Inspired by Mayer’s positive transformation, Amihai Gross, the Berlin Philharmonic’s principal viola since 2010 and known for his versatile chamber and solo work, also sought treatment at the hospital’s Hair Center and is currently receiving care. Together, the two musicians decided to express their gratitude and share their renewed sense of well-being through this intimate performance.
Did you know? – Albrecht Mayer, the oboist, has held his principal position with the Berlin Philharmonic for over three decades. His experience with hair loss treatment at Myongji Hospital inspired the concert. The performance aims to share the feeling of recovery through music.
The duo will perform for approximately 40 minutes, featuring ensemble and solo pieces, including Johann Sebastian Bach’s ‘Sonata a tre g-moll’. The performance, described as an interplay between the oboe and viola “as if exchanging each other’s breath,” promises a uniquely balanced and emotionally resonant experience, accompanied by harpsichord virtuoso and Han Yejong professor, Arendt Hrosfeld.
Myongji Hospital: Pioneering Art as Healing
This concert underscores Myongji Hospital’s long-standing commitment to art healing. For 14 years, the hospital has operated Korea’s only dedicated art healing center, integrating music, art, and theater into patient care. Beyond clinical applications, Myongji Hospital actively fosters emotional well-being through programs like “Lobby Concerts,” “Bedside Concerts,” and “healing Concerts.”
Notably, the hospital continued its artistic outreach even during the height of the coronavirus pand
Pro tip: – consider the power of music for well-being. Hospitals and other care facilities are increasingly using music and art to aid in patient recovery. Explore local programs that offer similar services for a boost in mood and health.
