Youn Sun Nah

La Seine Musicale welcomes Youn Sun Nah, a unique voice in contemporary jazz. Expect an evening where emotion and virtuosity meet, led by an artist with constantly renewed creativity.

Youn Sun Nah, the South Korean singer, composer, and performer, has established herself as a major figure in international vocal jazz. Born in Seoul into a family of musicians – her father is a choir conductor and her mother an opera singer – she initially explored musical theatre before turning to jazz in the late 90s, moving to Paris to study at CIM and the American School of Modern Music. This dual culture, between her Korean musical heritage and her Western jazz training, profoundly nourishes her artistic approach, distinguishing her with an ability to fluidly merge genres and influences.

Her career is marked by critically acclaimed albums such as “Voyage” (2008), “Same Girl” (2010), “Lento” (2013), and more recently “Waking World” (2022). Each of these works testifies to her evolution, her curiosity, and her desire to explore new sonic textures. She is renowned for her exceptional vocal mastery, capable of effortlessly transitioning from the most intimate whisper to powerful soaring notes, using her voice as an instrument in its own right, sometimes even incorporating extended techniques or body percussion. Her repertoire alternates between original compositions, often imbued with poetry and melancholy, and audacious reinterpretations of standards or tracks from other musical universes, always with a personal and inventive touch.

On stage, Youn Sun Nah is known for the intensity and authenticity of her performances. Far from artifice, she creates a deep connection with her audience, carried by a stage presence that is both discreet and captivating. Her concerts are invitations to travel, suspended moments where improvisation and raw emotion take centre stage. She regularly surrounds herself with leading musicians, contributing to subtle and inventive arrangements that highlight her unique voice. This appearance at La Seine Musicale represents a wonderful opportunity to discover or rediscover an artist whose originality and sensitivity continue to shape the current jazz landscape, offering a live experience rich in nuances and emotions.