Justin Julian

Justin Julian was born in Sydney, where he studied with Roger Benedict and trained in the Sydney Symphony Fellowship and the Australian Chamber Orchestra’s Emerging Artist Program. Justin gained further inspiration from prominent violists including Tabea Zimmermann, Nils Mönkemeyer and Hartmut Rohde, at the Kronberg Academy Masterclasses, Villars Music Academy, Carl Flesch Academy and other courses. He also received chamber music masterclasses with Eberhard Feltz and members of the Borodin, Takács, Fine Arts and Doric string quartets.

Now based in Adelaide, Justin is Section Principal Viola with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, and was previously Associate Principal Viola from 2020-2022. He has frequently appeared as concerto soloist with the ASO, including performances of Britten’s Lachrymae and Holly Harrison’s Hotwire, acclaimed as ‘electrifying’ and ‘a sight to behold’ (Limelight Magazine). Justin has also worked as guest Principal Viola with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra, Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and The Hallé. He has performed at major festivals from Aldeburgh to Lucerne and enjoyed chamber music collaborations with Anthony Marwood, Hartmut Rohde, Jens Peter Maintz, Pekka Kuusisto, Ensemble Musikfabrik, KLASSIK underground and Omega Ensemble.

Justin performs with a viola made by Romolo Parmeggiani in Modena, 1921 and is generously loaned the ‘ex-Vieux’ 1931 Eugene Sartory bow. Offstage, Justin loves mountains and is an enthusiastic rock climber.