Julian Joseph
London-born Julian Joseph OBE is described as one of the greatest ever British jazz musicians and is at the forefront of the modern Jazz scene. Julian graduated in composition from Berklee College of Music in 1989 and since then, has been involved in both traditional and contemporary music. He is also heavily involved in jazz education and has helpepd to form the jazz syllabus for ABRSM in Great Britain. While in Jersey, Julian and his trio will be performing jazz classics and an arrangement of his own ‘Islands’ Concerto with violinist Harriet Mackenzie on Saturday 13th May. Music in Action asked Julian why music matters?
At what age did you start making music and how did you start?
I started making music as far back as I can remember as it has always been a part of me. My mum bought a piano for my brothers and I and said you’re all going to learn; I’ve loved every moment since and am still learning.
What do you enjoy about piano playing?
I love the feeling of it, sound that comes back and that I get so entranced and beguiled that time disappears.
Why does music matter to you?
Music is the greatest treasure the world has to offer and makes life colourful, beautiful and so uplifting. It moves me emotionally, spiritually and intellectually in a way that nothing else equals.
What is special for you about the new commission – the violin concerto arranged for Jazz trio and violin?
It’s a different and refreshing opportunity for me to further explore this music translated into the jazz vernacular. It also allows me to experience the beautiful sound of Harriet’s playing in a context where I can influence the music in the moment with Andrew Rob and Mark Mondesir.
What is your favourite place on earth?
Anywhere warm and beautiful and warmth comes in many guises. Could be the people or a creative atmosphere, the weather, food or wine and most likely all of them. These atmospheres are where I feel most at home. Any one place? Where I call home at the moment, and that would be my house in Wandsworth.
Who is your favourite composer?
I love many composers and I enjoy listening to many different sounds in short phases of time so at the moment it would be two composers - Wayne Shorter and Serge Prokofiev.
Which historical figure would you choose to have dinner with?
I recently worked with Harry Christopher’s and The Sixteen playing the sublime music of Monteverdi. Wonderfully constructed and always moving I’d be interested to dine in his company and listen to what he’s into and where he’s coming from musically and personally.
You like to give back and do outreach work – how important is this to you?
Teaching and working directly with young people is essential because music is about community and connection. Working in my Academy JJJA helps me experience first hand the joy music brings to those you share it with and represents the best kind of intimacy we have in humanity.
What can we look forward to from you next?
Next I am recording with my trio. It’s been many years since we shared our new music with the world so I’m very excited to share new pieces and new versions of classic pieces with my incredible musical comrades. We’re also preparing to perform with the LPO later this year. But first I’m looking forward to Jersey!