First-generation Filipino-American violist and Interlochen alum Jay Julio and Japanese-American pianist Josh Tatsuo Cullen met as orchestra musicians on a months-long tour with "Hamilton."
Now, the duo is embarking on a tour across the U.S. presenting a program of diverse composers with ties to the U.S. — featuring music by Courtney Bryan, Rebecca Clarke, Astor Piazzolla and even original music by Julio.
Live on Classical IPR's Morning Classical, Julio and Tatsuo Cullen spoke with host Christy L'Esperance about how they relate to music by lesser-known and contemporary composers, previewing their upcoming performance at the Music House Museum.
Julio, who is the current assistant principal violist of the Opera Philadelphia Orchestra, talked about their experiences reviving works from Filipino repertoire with a fellow Interlochen teaching assistant, Norman Menzales. The two bonded over their Filipino identity and would go on the collaborate on an album of Filipino classical music, "Panoramas."
"I love to be playing music that hasn't been played yet," reflected Tatsuo Cullen, who particularly admires the works of Florence Price. "To tell the stories of people whose voices haven't been heard."
Jay Julio and Josh Tatsuo Cullen's performance will be held at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 5th at the Music House Museum in Williamsburg. Tickets can be purchased at MyNorthTickets, by going to musichouse.org or by calling 231-938-9300.
