A legacy-driven media platform documenting Korean excellence in culture, economy, and identity
Author: Choi Gabi
Photo Credit: Provided by Jeong Jae-Young
In Jang Jung-il's novel "Do You Believe in Jazz?" jazz is described as "irregular harmony and repetitive variations of ornamental notes, spontaneous outbursts." Perhaps the word that encapsulates this concept in a single term is "freedom." Being synonymous with "improvisational performance," jazz music flows freely, breaking away from classical rigidity, unlocking the listener’s mind and body. Once one grasps the deep, unique charm of jazz, it becomes clear that beneath its freedom lies a nuance of subdued sorrow and melancholy—a reflection of the deep human emotions and historical context during jazz's inception.
Q: Congratulations on the release of your first jazz guitar album, Deep Sea.
"Thank you. Hello, Mom & I readers. I’m Jazz Guitarist Jeong Jae-Young. I studied jazz guitar at Berklee College of Music and NYU, performing in Korea and the New York/New Jersey area, leading to the release of this album. I am delighted to share my music journey with the readers."
Q: Tell us about your initial engagement with the guitar and how you started studying jazz.
"Unlike many musicians, I did not show an interest or talent in music from an early age. I briefly learned piano as a child but disliked it. It wasn’t until I listened to Frank Sinatra’s music, favored by my father, during middle school that I got a taste of jazz. I began learning guitar in high school and then formally studied jazz at a jazz academy. Listening and studying complex jazz artists like Miles Davis naturally steered me towards becoming a jazz musician, eventually leading me to further my studies in the U.S. Despite praise from my teachers in Korea, I felt overwhelmed by the talented peers at Berklee—what I would describe as a critical period of musical trial and personal reflection."
Q: What inspired you to release your first album, Deep Sea?
"After completing structured studies at Berklee and NYU, I did not feel ready to declare a musical identity. I focused on improving my skills, waiting for the 'perfect time,' which never came. Eventually, I embraced the courage to showcase my current music as it is. This album is both a conclusion of the music I've been developing and a starting point for new endeavors. Many incomplete compositions in my mind were finalized for this album, including two new pieces, and thus, 'Deep Sea' was born."
Q: What is the implication behind the album title 'Deep Sea'?
"I heard that water pressure increases as you dive deeper into the ocean, and only fish that can withstand this pressure thrive in such depths. I applied this idea to myself, viewing the deep sea as a realm requiring resilience to enter—a place of serenity and peace attainable only through rigorous training and discipline. This title reflects my long-held aspiration to reach a profound depth in musicianship."
Q: Among the tracks in the album, July stands out, possibly due to the current month. Can you introduce the musicians involved in the album?
"The album features Piano, Bass, Drum, and Guitar, with all collaborators being Berklee alumni. Pianist Christian Li, a Chinese-American prodigy, teaches at Berklee, while bassist Jung Sang-wook is a friend from the New York gig scene. The drummer hails from a musically inclined Polish-American family. They are all exceptional in their fields, and collaborating with them on this album has been an honor."
Q: As a jazz guitarist, how do you balance playing traditional jazz and developing your unique sound?
"At certain points, musicians must establish musical priorities. Obsessing over public reception can negate one's identity, while insisting solely on personal music can isolate an artist. I admire Tim Miller, a Berklee professor and renowned performer, who blends traditional jazz with a touch of personal flair. Learning from him, I focus on essential jazz elements while enhancing the guitar's emotional and lyrical nature to define my unique sound. This is a continuous endeavor for any performer."
Q: Having visited Korea for album promotions, how were your interactions with audiences?
"Performing in Korea is important for Korean artists based abroad, like myself, who face limitations in musical activities. Over three weeks, I held five performances in noted jazz bars and showcases in Hongdae, sharing enriching experiences with the audience. Korea’s openness to jazz and vibrant cultural scene received the music warmly. It's regrettable, though, that opportunities in the U.S. aren't as abundant for reaching the Korean community."
Q: Can you share about your activities in New York and New Jersey?
"In Manhattan, I connect with audiences through gigs at jazz clubs while participating in various Korean-targeted concerts in the area. I recently joined fellow musicians from the East Coast for a concert in New Jersey titled 'Musical Journey to Memories,' and participated in other local events, including a special performance combining traditional Korean music in Chicago."
Q: How do you spend time when you’re not performing?
"When not performing, I teach students and, when possible, play guitar alone for relaxation and recharge. Time without obligations is scarce; when it happens, I enjoy simply resting. Previously, I managed to watch movies or travel in my spare time, but now I prefer to rest whenever possible."
Q: Could you sketch your future aspirations?
"Although continuing as a performer till the end of life is fulfilling, I wish my music provides solace to others. Ideally, I aspire to be both cherished by audiences and respected by my peers. To achieve that, ongoing efforts are necessary, including consistent album releases and maintaining musical engagement with audiences. Sketching my later years seems similar to my current life: teaching, performing, and releasing music. If possible, I would like to aid those financially unable to pursue music education."
Q: As a closing, how would you describe the album Deep Sea?
"I'm somewhat introverted and sparse in words, often perceived as gloomy. However, upon listening to my album, 'warmth' emerged as a predominant quality. This isn’t because it’s my music, but rather an honest impression. We sometimes understand creators through their works. My album's warmth suggests one of two things: either I am, in reality, a warm person, or there’s an urgent wish within me for warmth—sensibilities combined with restraint, offering gentle solace and comfort."
With wishes for many to find jazz comfort and solace through Deep Sea, this was a conversation filled with depth and emotion. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Jeong Jae-Young for his profound insights.
Jeong Jae-Young, a jazz guitarist active across New York, New Jersey, and Korea, is a musician with an ambiance well-suited to jazz music. Having released his debut album, Deep Sea, he candidly shared the challenges in taking his first steps as a jazz musician, emphasizing the hard-earned satisfaction accompanying his prolonged musical exploration.
