Julian Toha

Known for his passionate performances, poetic imagination, and technical command, American pianist Julian Toha has acquired a reputation as an exciting young artist of the 21st century. As a soloist and chamber musician, he has inspired audiences throughout the United States, as well as abroad, with his highly emotional and original interpretations. With a gift as an engaging pianist who plays from the heart, his memorable concerts have received wide acclaim. When asked about his goal as a artist, Toha answered, "I just want the audience to fall in love."

In January 2009, Toha premiered with the Ars Flores Symphony Orchestra performing the Samuel Barber Concerto for Piano and Orchestra, Op. 38. He was invited to perform after winning first place in their 7th Annual Young Artist Concerto Competition. In February, he performed the same work with the Florida State University Philharmonia, after winning the 2008 Young Artist Competition at the Florida State University College of Music. Also in February, he placed second and received the Max Kaplan Award in the LaGrange Symphony Orchestra Young Artists Competition. In March 2009, Toha entered the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra Instrumental Competition. While competing with the top musicians from across the nation, he was the only pianist selected to advance to the final round. In April, Toha was nominated and named the 2009 Presser Scholar. The foundation grants awards to musicians who show strong evidence of an emerging career. This national honor comes with a title and scholarship. In May of the same year, Toha entered as one of the youngest competitors in the International Beethoven Piano Sonata Competition and advanced to semifinal round.

With the overwhelming success that Toha has achieved this year, he is taking his abilities over to Europe for summer. Playing solo concerts in four countries: Italy, Spain, France, and Germany, he looks forward to sharing his love for music with new audiences. Upon returning to the states in September, Toha will embark on his 2009-2010 domestic tour which will cover over 30 cities in 10 states. His performances will range from live in-studio radio broadcasts and artist series to concerts in art museums and churches. Throughout the tour he will focus his efforts on stretching the imaginations of listeners. "Pretend to be a kid again; dream. Free your mind and listen with your heart." This is Toha's advice for audience members to enhance their musical experience.

As a recipient of several scholarships, including ones from the Morning Musicale of Fort Lauderdale and the College of Music at Florida State University, Toha is currently finishing his bachelor's degree in Piano Performance. His principal teacher is Leonard Mastrogiacomo. Apart from music, he also loves photography, exercising, poetry, cooking, and the visual arts.