`Enjoy the Classic, Ditto'

Richard Yongjae O'Neill, Compiled in Korean by Jo Jeong-hyeon

Joongang Books: 237 pp., 12,000 won

One of the most promising ― and explosively popular ― young artists of today, violist Richard Yongjae O'Neill has three hit albums and a string of acclaimed performances on the world stage under his belt. Now the 29-year-old brings a collection of essays, ``Ditto'' (also the name of a chamber ensemble of which he is a member).

The book is in essence a guide to appreciating classical music, which is often regarded as being limited to the elite intelligentsia. ``Enjoy the classic, you don't necessarily have to understand everything!'' writes the author. He compares the music genre to food, how one does not necessarily have to be a great chef to enjoy delicacies.

But this is no ``Dummy'' guidebook. The author presents thoroughly subjective viewpoints and experiences with classical music as both an individual and artist. While strongly autobiographical, however, the book's core focus is not O'Neill (readers probably know about his life from the hit 2005 KBS documentary, "Human Theater.")

Rather, it is a passionate love letter to music. Through his personal anecdotes and philosophies about music, O'Neill establishes a basis of mutual understanding, heart to heart, with readers -- ditto.

Just as celebrated director Park Chan-wook, one of O'Neill's fans and sponsors, writes in the foreword, you feel like you know the author, both as an artist and individual, after reading it, and some might feel inspired to tackle centuries-old music.

The book also includes a list of concert etiquette and recommended music pieces.

Read about my interview with Mr. O'Neill