Facts and comments about the classical music composers' era, style and works roll off their tongues easily.

On the other hand, they cannot seem to grasp the American pop culture that their peers are into.

'I think I'm obsolete. They talk about TV shows that I know nothing about,' jokes Rex, who reads books on the American civil rights war and human rights in his free time.

Originally based in Singapore, the award-winning pianists were offered a place at the Manhattan School of Music in New York last year. They are under the tutelage of renowned American pianist Peter Vinograde.

Back in Singapore on their summer break for two months, the pair will perform a piano recital on June 24 at the Esplanade Recital Studio.

Read the full report in Monday's edition of The Straits Times, Life!.