Korean pianist Yiruma overcomes stage fright by wearing dark-coloured clothing

For a musician who has travelled around the world to perform sold-out concerts and has worked with contemporary K-pop artists such as Shinee and 2AM, it is surprising that South Korean pianist and composer Yiruma says he still suffers stage fright.&n
For a musician who has travelled around the world to perform sold-out concerts and has worked with contemporary K-pop artists such as Shinee and 2AM, it is surprising that South Korean pianist and composer Yiruma says he still suffers stage fright. -- PHOTO: MODE ENTERTAINMENT

For a musician who has travelled around the world to perform sold-out concerts and has worked with contemporary K-pop artists such as Shinee and 2AM, it is surprising that South Korean pianist and composer Yiruma says he still suffers stage fright.

"I am very scared, because it's my first time having a concert in Singapore. I don't like playing on stage. That's why I have to wear indigo clothing," he confessed.

He went on to explain that while he was writing his 2003 song, Indigo, he looked out of the window and saw the indigo-coloured sky, just before nightfall, and felt calm and relaxed. That experience has led to his habit of wearing indigo or dark blue clothing for his performances to help him overcome his stage fright.

Yiruma, 36, was speaking at a press conference on Friday for his concert on Saturday at The Star Theatre. All 5,000 tickets for the show are sold out.

The musician, whose real name is Lee Ru Ma, is best known for his tunes such as Kiss The Rain (2003) and River Flows In You (2001), which he will be performing in Singapore along with songs from his new album, Blind Film, released last year.

Although Saturday's concert is his debut here, his visit to Singapore is not his first. The last time he came was 22 years ago, when his father was working here.

Speaking in English, the United Kingdom-trained pianist says: "There are more buildings now. But I feel that it's the same. The air, the smells and all that, it's very unique. I don't know how to explain it, but there is something special about Singapore.

"I have a great impression of Singapore, the sea view, it's green everywhere. The air is so nice. I'm sure I'll have some kind of inspiration from Singapore and write something."

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.