Rhythmic and Jangdan Analysis of Kim Young-jae’s Geomungo Solo Piece ‘Mamu’

The geomungo solo piece Mamu, composed by Kim Young-jae, a composer and holder of the title Geomungo Sanjo (National Intangible Cultural Heritage of Korea), is a quintessential programmatic music piece that vividly captures the movement and form of a horse through the unique characteristics of the Geomungo. This composition, structured in five movements, maximizes the instrument’s distinctive features through rhythmic interpretation. The Jangdan (Korean rhythmic patterns) and rhythmic characteristics of each movement have been analyzed as follows. First, the Mu Jangdan is positioned at both the introduction and the conclusion of the piece, playing a crucial role in cohesively linking the beginning and the end through the use of the thematic melody. Second, the Jajin Taryeong Jangdan is performed over 41 measures, presenting the thematic rhythm and utilizing 13 variations of rhythmic patterns to effectively depict the image of a horse dancing. Third, the Hwimori Jangdan is performed over 33 measures, rhythmically portraying the horse warming up before a full gallop. After introducing the thematic rhythm, a total of seven variations of rhythmic patterns are employed. Fourth, the Jungjungmori Jangdan is performed over 20 measures and uniquely employs melody as the primary expressive element rather than rhythmic variations. It portrays the horse pausing to catch its breath before a full gallop. Fifth, the Danmori Jangdan utilizes various duple-meter rhythmic variations to depict the image of a horse in full gallop and its breathing, which is expressed through the modern playing technique of glissando. In conclusion, the rhythmic and jangdan analysis of Kim Young-jae’s newly composed geomungo solo piece Mamu (Horse Dance) demonstrates a rhythmic approach to the unique characteristics of the geomungo. By presenting thematic melodies and rhythms, the piece achieves a cohesive atmosphere while harmoniously blending traditional and modern techniques and playing styles, Through this study, it is hoped that various new compositions will be created by modernizing traditional jangdan, leading to the evolution of innovative and diverse musical works.