Locally beloved Canadian composer and pianist Steve Barakatt has postponed his Dec. 5 concert to Jan. 2, following the recent announcement of political protests scheduled in the Gwanghwamun area on the day of the show.

Scheduled to be held at the Sejong Center, the pianist’s 20th anniversary concert was rescheduled as a preventive measure to ensure the safety of fans and concertgoers.

“The 20th anniversary of friendship with my Korean friends is a moment of celebration, and the last thing I wish is to put my Korean fans, musicians, tour staff and partners at risk considering the situation around the Sejong Center” said Barakatt.

The pianist’s January performance is still slated to be held at the Sejong Center next year. Barakatt will perform his symphonic work “Ad Vitam Aeternam” accompanied by conductor Kim Bong-mee and the Herald Philharmonic Orchestra.

For the inconvenience, Barakatt’s concert promoter Rainbow Bridge Story is offering a 20 percent discount on all additional ticket purchases for the upcoming concert.

By Julie Jackson (juliejackson@heraldcorp.com)