The Japan Times discloses Kim Jong-il’s love of Western classical music, and of one interpreter thereof in particular.
Seiji Ozawa, formerly chief conductor of the prestigious Boston Symphony Orchestra, and now at the Vienna State Opera, received an approach from the General Association of Korean Residents in Japan (Chongryun), at Kim’s request, to become conductor of the Pyongyang National Symphony Orchestra. Ozawa was able to decline, being contracted to the Vienna opera until 2009.
“I thought a lot and I don’t think I can focus on music in the political environment in North Korea” Ozawa is quoted as saying.
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