Julian Nicholas

THEORY & MUSICIANSHIP LESSON VAULT

JAZZ WORKSHOP #96 - USING MODES TO ADD COLOUR

“His beautiful and creative playing makes Julian one of my favourite saxophonists” - Bobby Wellins

“Julian is one of those rare players whose playing is a direct reflection of his true character and nature. Uplifting, intelligent, positive, genuine and filled with joy. I've enjoyed listening to him every time - one of my real faves!” - Iain Ballamy

This month I’m joined by Julian Nicholas, a star of the British Jazz scene. Primarily known as a tenor and soprano player, he plays all the single-reed woodwind instruments and penny whistle!

Julian was made aware by his composer grandfather that music can be accessible and yet still retain integrity, originality and depth. With this in his blood, he has worked in most genres as a composer and arranger and session musician and sideman, whilst sustaining a reputation for his own artistry and unique flavour upon the more rarified slopes of be-bop to contemporary jazz.

As an in-demand player, he has appeared consistently at national venues such as Ronnie Scott’s, The 606, the Vortex, Dean St. Jazz Club at Pizza Express, The Spin in Oxford, and Jazz Festivals London, Brighton, Brecon, Cheltenham, Herts and Gateshead. His band supported Nina Simone two years running at The Dome for the Brighton Festival, winning its festival award both years.

Julian has had a significant role in the Brighton and South Coast scene as an innovating artist, organizer and educator. Julian was the first promoting musician to bring artists such as Dudu Pukwana, Django Bates, Jason Rebello, Chris McGregor, Louis Moholo, Sarah Jane Morris, Steve Arguelles, and Emil Viklický to Brighton. He was co-director of South Coast Jazz Festival which he founded in 2015 with Claire Martin O.B.E

Julian teaches in a variety of settings. He ran the well-respected, 2-year Jazz Foundation [Level 4 & 5] course at Chichester College 2012-2020. Julian composes in many styles for his own and other ensembles. He is a prolific jazz composer, B.A.F.T.A-nominated film score co-composer, and has composed music for theatre/dance and for 'The Cloggz'.