This study examines the Seodo japga piece Jejeon by analyzing its textual organization and musical characteristics, with the aim of identifying patterns of variation that have emerged through its transmission. Four recordings of Jejeon from different ...
This study examines the Seodo japga piece Jejeon by analyzing its textual organization and musical characteristics, with the aim of identifying patterns of variation that have emerged through its transmission. Four recordings of Jejeon from different periods—by Kim Chil-seong (1938), Jang Hak-seon (1968), Oh Bok-nyeo (1972), and Kim Jeong-yeon (1980)—are comparatively analyzed in terms of textual structure, modal organization, melodic progression, cadential patterns, and rhythmic practice. The results confirm that Jejeon is a work that has undergone diverse musical transformations shaped by historical contexts and the interpretive approaches of individual singers.
Textual analysis reveals that while all four versions share a common narrative framework, the ordering of verses as well as patterns of omission and addition vary according to each singer. Notably, the texts of Kim Chil-seong and Jang Hak-seon exhibit characteristics of earlier transmission forms that differ from the later standardized “Baek-odongpung-e~” type. In terms of mode and pitch usage, all four singers share the basic framework of susimgatori; however, differences emerge in the relative emphasis and application of sol-based and re-based realizations. Kim Chil-seong and Jang Hak-seon display a mixed use of the two, whereas Oh Bok-nyeo and Kim Jeong-yeon favor a predominantly re-centered structure.
Despite employing similar textual materials, the singers demonstrate distinct approaches to melodic progression. Kim Chil-seong emphasizes G and minimizes melodic contour, resulting in a restrained and even melodic flow, while Jang Hak-seon actively incorporates altered tones and ornamentation to produce a more dynamic and multidimensional melody. Oh Bok-nyeo’s performance is largely confined to the re-based susimgatori pentatonic collection (D–E–G–A–C), forming a stable structure characterized by repeated returns to D as a central pitch. Kim Jeong-yeon likewise centers on D, but expands wave-like melodic motion and ornamental detail to intensify expressive affect.
With respect to cadential patterns, all four performances share a characteristic structure centered on D′–A–G, although they differ in the extent of upward lead-in (chikeo-ollim), pitch inflection, and ornamentation, reflecting singer-specific approaches to phrase closure. Rhythmic analysis further reveals performer-dependent features shaped by breath control and melodic choice. Across all four versions, 18-beat cycles occur most frequently, suggesting that a structure of six repetitions of a three-pulse unit most effectively accommodates the melodic span and breath length of Jejeon. At the same time, the piece maintains the character of an irregular mixed-meter rhythm that expands and contracts flexibly according to the singer’s breathing.
Taken together, these findings demonstrate that Jejeon has not been transmitted as a single fixed form, but rather through an organic process in which singers’ musical backgrounds, evolving transmission systems, and changing historical conditions are intricately reflected. Under a single title, multiple textual structures, melodic realizations, and rhythmic patterns coexist, illustrating the long-standing Seodo sori tradition of allowing wide latitude for individual interpretation and expression. By documenting these patterns of variation through detailed comparative analysis, this study provides a foundation for a more systematic understanding of the transmission structure and musical characteristics of Jejeon.