Meet Finalist Cullan Lucas
Transatlantic Impressions | Audition Concert
Saturday, September 26
5:30 p.m. Doors
6:00 p.m. Pre-Concert Talk
7:00 p.m. Concert
Get to know CVSO’s first conductor and music director finalist, Cullan Lucas, before his audition concert on September 26!
Q: What is something about this experience that you are looking forward to?
A: What I am looking forward to most is exploring the possibilities of a new chapter with the CVSO, its musicians, and our audience. Introducing dynamic, possibly lesser-known repertoire alongside familiar favorites presents an exciting challenge, and I can't wait to bring a shared sense of curiosity to the podium.
Q: What can patrons expect from this music? What could they be listening for?
A: Expect a whirlwind of vibrant energy and colors! Fresh off the success of Rhapsody in Blue, Gershwin infused his Concerto in F with the unstoppable verve and life of 1920s American jazz. Pair that with Dame Ethel Smyth’s powerful, rugged depiction of the Cornwall coast, alongside the lush orchestral textures of Frederick Delius and Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, and you have a deeply evocative, unforgettable program.
Q: Why did you choose a particular piece of music? What makes it appealing?
A: I’ve truly fallen in love with Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s Suite from the Ballet Hiawatha. Beyond its rich melodies, a hallmark of Coleridge-Taylor, there is something fascinating about an English composer setting a classic American epic poem to such incredible international acclaim. Coleridge-Taylor was an extraordinary talent who never truly received the recognition he deserved in his lifetime (or the profits) and I feel privileged to share the brilliance of his music with the Eau Claire community.
Q: What are your thoughts about spending time in Eau Claire and/or working with CVSO?
A: I've had this whole month with the orchestra circled on my calendar for ages now! Over the years, the musicians, students, and collaborators I’ve worked with from Eau Claire have constantly raved about the community’s deep passion and support for the arts. I couldn't be more thrilled to collaborate with the CVSO and experience that creative energy firsthand.
Q: If someone is coming to a symphonic concert for the first time, what advice would you give them?
A: Come with an open mind and a sense of curiosity! You don't need a music degree to enjoy a concert, just a willingness to listen, question, and have fun. Classical music is an experience, not a math test, so let go of those expectations and stories we've conjured and just enjoy the moment.
Q: What is one thing you would like our patrons to know about you as a conductor and programmer?
A: I want them to know that my own gateway into the symphonic world didn't start in a traditional concert hall; I was a band kid with a love of video game soundtracks. Fast forward to today, and now I'm an orchestra conductor! That experience showed me firsthand the power of an unexpected entry point, and it’s why I’m so passionate about breaking down traditional barriers to entry today. By programming vibrant voices and genres alongside beloved staples, my goal is to build those same welcoming gateways for others. Music belongs to everyone, and I want to create a space where seasoned patrons and first-time listeners alike in that regard.