Born: 1904

Died: 1983

Cellist Julian Kahn was a a distinguished American cellist, known for his performances and recordings. Kahn was a winner of the 1927 Walter W. Naumburg Competition and made his New York debut  under the auspices of the Naumburg Foundation on February 27, 1928, at Town Hall. He was a graduate of the Institute of Musical Art where he studied with William Willeke.

He was also a member of the Perolé Quartet, a respected American string quartet of the interwar period, founded with financial support from three families, the Pereras, Robesons, and Leventritts. The quartet was featured in regular Sunday broadcasts on radio station WOR during the 1930s.

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Reviews from his debut recital appear below:

Musical America, February 20, 1928

"The young 'cellist drew a tone of mellow quality, while his bowing was pleasingly firm and restrained. A deep insight into the music he played enhanced its effect, and a serious, intelligent attitude won the unreserved respect of his listeners."

New York Sun, 1928

"His performance last night marked him as an important addition to the ranks of fine cellists. A serious young artist with a musical mind and enviable accomplishment is Mr. Kahn."