Interview: Juliano

German composer Juliano is a new discovery of mine. I featured two tracks in a recent round-up review based on study music, although Juliano’s music would also fit in well with the classical genre. He’s a truly astounding musician and one I’ll be keeping a firm eye on in the future. Find out more about Juliano below!

By Jane Howkins

How was your 2022?

It was very varied and there were ups and downs. From a musical point of view, I have to say that it was a very successful year with many releases.

You recently released a couple of songs that we reviewed, titled Flowing River and Lamento. What can you tell us about these songs?

Lamento was created because of the current circumstances in this world and is meant to make you think. With this orchestral piece I wanted to commemorate the people who have to suffer from the war and the fight for their freedom and human rights. Flowing River represents a counterpoint here. With this composition I was searching for inner peace and balance, as it can be found in nature.

How has the reception been for both singles and where can your music be purchased?

So far I have received wonderful feedback. Of course, music is always a very subjective matter. But as long as I reach people who can find a balance and peace from their everyday life with my music, I am satisfied.

Do you plan to release any more singles in the near future?

Yes, a new piano solo piece is coming out in early March. Furthermore, there are more collaborations and of course some other solo projects for which I am currently collecting ideas. I also plan to publish a sheet music book of my piano pieces.

Are there any plans to release an EP or album?

I like to release singles, because many tracks are very different and follow a different theme. But a concept album would definitely be a great project. But first I need an idea that can be realised as an album. You’ve worked with a few different orchestras and bands.

Do you have any other side projects on the go right now?

Yes, just recently I worked with the London based electronic music producer Frank Hopkins on a new track that will hopefully be released in April. Besides that I will have another collaboration with Eric Heitmann.

Your music has a neo-classical sound. What/who influences you most as an artist? What have you been listening to recently?

There is so much music that influences me, from baroque music to pop music. What has always fascinated me is the reduction to the essential in musical material. Minimal music in particular has played a big role in this. On the other hand, I also love the great symphonic masterpieces by Beethoven, Bruckner, Mahler and others. I don’t limit myself to one genre. But if I had to name a genre that has influenced my writing, I would name minimal music. I really like to listen to a lot of music.

What do you think is the biggest challenge in the music industry at the moment?

I think it’s hard to be heard. There are so many ways to market and present your music now. The biggest challenge I see is that as a musician you have to be incredibly diverse. You have to be a composer, producer, instrumentalist, content creator, marketing expert, pianist and so much more. It’s easier to release your music now, but you also have to put in a lot of work.

You’re based in Germany. What is the local music scene like?

I think it’s like everywhere else. Life as a musician is not easy, and most of the time you have to take several jobs to earn a living. It’s hard to get gigs and I have the feeling that neo-classical music hasn’t really arrived here in Germany yet. But maybe that’s just my impression. My audience is very international so far and I hope that I can make more people aware of my music here in Germany as well.

Do you have any UK tour dates lined up?

It would be great to play in the UK. If the opportunity came up, I wouldn’t turn it down! At the moment there are no tour dates lined up.

Any last words for the fans?

I am very grateful for all the people who support me and listen to my music. For me it is still very unreal that people really listen to my music. I will continue to be motivated to work on projects and release more music!