Miryang Macabre

for concert band (5:00)
​Grade 4

*​available for purchase Summer 2026

Miryang Macabre is based on the Miryang regional variant of Arirang, Korea’s most famous folk tune. Unlike the romantic, yearning tale of the capital region Arirang, Miryang Arirang tells the tale of Arang, the beautiful daughter of the local governor who was murdered by a rejected suitor. After her death, Arang’s spirit haunted the newly installed governor until justice was served and her murderer was executed. As a result, the local women started singing this song to commemorate Arang. Miryang Macabre interpolates the Dies Irae over the Miryang Arirang melody to create an ominous, foreboding atmosphere that harkens back to the story of Arang’s spirit seeking revenge. Miryang Macabre was commissioned via consortium led by Baltimore Symphonic Band & the Hunt Valley Wind Ensemble through Abhinn Malhotra.