The Korean-born coloratura soprano, Sumi Jo, who is in  the ACT to perform “Voices in the Forest” concert in the National Arboretum, was accompanied by the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea Cho Taeyong.

Ambassador Cho said today’s meeting was a great opportunity to welcome one of Korea’s most successful performers to Australia.

“As one of the greatest performers of her generation, Ms Jo’s performance on Saturday is sure to be absolutely breathtaking and I would urge music lovers in Canberra not to miss this opportunity to hear her perform live.”

While touring the venerable JS Murdoch-designed building, known for its near-perfect acoustics, Ms Jo was treated to a surprise performance by friend and soprano Sena Lee, a former Opera Australia Young Artist.

Director of the Canberra International Music Festival and also “Voices in the Forest,” Christopher Latham, whose office is at the Centre, said the diva had  had no idea her friend was in Canberra, let alone at the Ainslie Arts Centre.

It’s not the first time to celebrated soprano has been to Canberra. Several years ago she performed with the malaysian philharmonic at Llewellyn hall.

Sponsor Bob Winnell  of the Village Building Group  told Ms Jo of the love of operatic singing in Canberra, expressing regret that there wasn’t more of it.

As she spread here arms for a photo she joked with those present, “look, I’m dressed like a geisha.”

Sena lee sang ‘Snow”, a  Korean art song.

Tickets to Voices in the Forest are on sale at www.canberraticketing.com.au and  gates to the Arboretum open at 2pm, with the concert commencing at 4.45pm.