▲ This photo of South Korea's world-acclaimed soprano Sumi Jo is photographed by Kim Young-joon and provided by Sumi Jo. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)(Yonhap)

 

SEOUL, April 21 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's world-acclaimed soprano Sumi Jo has signed an exclusive recording contract with SM Entertainment’s classical and jazz label SM Classics, the agency said Tuesday.

 

Under the agreement, Jo will produce albums and digital music as the label’s first exclusive recording artist.

 

She will first release a special album titled "Continuum" next month to mark the 40th anniversary of her international debut.

 

The album features 11 tracks spanning Jo’s past, present and future, with contributions from renowned composers including Yiruma, Park Jong-hoon and Kim Jin-hwan.

 

Suho of EXO will join as a duet partner, adding a popular touch to the classical work, while violinist Danny Koo will also be featured.

 

Jo said the album includes a wide range of repertoire, from technically demanding coloratura arias she has not previously recorded to new works by contemporary composers.

 

She added the project reflects her musical philosophy of breaking boundaries between classical heritage and modern sensibilities, and continuing to challenge herself with new music.

 

Jo will embark on a nationwide tour next month and host the second Sumi Jo International Vocal Competition in France in July.

 

She made her international debut in 1986 at the Teatro Verdi with the opera "Rigoletto" and has since established herself as a world-class soprano.

[ⓒ K-VIBE. 무단전재-재배포 금지]