Chicago-based saxophonist Julian Velasco has released his debut album "As We Are" on Cedille Records. This project is a result of him winning the label's first Emerging Artist Competition. Velasco highlights music from composers he credits for playing large personal and musical roles in shaping his identity as an artist over the past few years. The album features contemporary works for tenor, alto, and soprano saxophone.
I recently spent some time talking with Julian about his musical background and the process of putting this debut album together, which he calls “one of the greatest prizes anyone could ever imagine.”
Yours in good music,
Mike Goldberg Classical Host, VPM Music