Julien Chanal is a French guitarist and composer whose music transcends genres, blending jazz, Gipsy Jazz, and world music into a uniquely personal style. Raised in Rambouillet, France, Julien discovered his love for music early, starting with classical flute before moving to the guitar at fourteen. His influences range from blues and rock to bossa nova, which all contribute to his evocative, storytelling approach to guitar.
Julien is a member of the internationally acclaimed Barcelona Gipsy balKan Orchestra (BGKO) and also plays with Slalom Trio, blending jazz and modern instrumental influences. His performances are marked by emotional depth, simplicity, and a focus on melody, always seeking to share the joy and connection he feels through music with his audience.
Full Bio
Julien Chanal is a French guitarist and composer known for his emotionally evocative and storytelling approach to music. Originally from Rambouillet, France, Julien’s passion for music began at an early age, starting with classical flute at the age of six and later transitioning to guitar at fourteen. Raised in a lively environment where music was always present, he learned to play guitar surrounded by family and friends, jamming around fires, and embracing the spirit of improvisation.
Julien’s music is deeply influenced by his journey through various musical genres, from the blues and rock records his mother cherished to the intricate harmonies of bossa nova and the vibrant pulse of world music. His work blends jazz, Gipsy Jazz, and modern instrumental influences, drawing from artists like Sylvain Luc, Joscho Stefan, and Tommy Emmanuel, while always maintaining a personal, distinctive sound. Julien’s guitar playing is often described as expressive, focusing on simplicity and melody rather than sheer technicality.
Julien is a key member of the Barcelona Gipsy balKan Orchestra (BGKO), an ensemble renowned for its unique blend of Eastern European, Mediterranean, and world music. He also plays rhythm guitar in Bratia and performs with Slalom Trio, his personal project to express his own music, merging jazz and modern improvisation with deep-sea jazz influences. Additionally, Julien enjoys playing guitar recitals, either alone or with percussion.
Julien’s mission is to create music that moves people, taking them on an emotional journey through sound. His playing is characterized by its sincerity, aiming to share the feeling of connection and empathy that music has brought to him throughout his life.