Biography

“Julian’s flexible and intelligent interpretations reflect his command over rhythmic tension and tonal detail, evoking echoes of masterful pianists like Nelson Freire.”

-Gramophone

 

"Julian Jaeyoung Kim masterfully interprets Brahms with lyrical expression and virtuosic flair in his debut, promising a bright future in classical music."

-Interlude Magazine

 

"Julian Kim’s technical brilliance shines in every piece as he draws out the full richness of the piano’s sound. With style, precision, and sensitivity, he navigates dramatic, heroic, entertaining, and humorous moods easily and elegantly."

-Klassik Heute

 

Julian Jaeyoung Kim, a South Korean-born pianist, is hailed as a marvelous virtuoso. His performances embody a deep sense of commitment and a relentless curiosity about uncovering the true essence of music. These qualities have earned him critical acclaim and recognition in prestigious international piano competitions and concert venues worldwide.

 

Julian's dedication and talent have garnered him numerous accolades and prizes in international piano competitions. Notably, he has achieved first prizes in esteemed competitions such as the Orbetello International Piano Competition and the "Citta di Barletta" International Piano Competition in Italy. His exceptional performances have also earned him second prizes in the Juliusz Zarębski International Piano Competition in Poland, Paul Badura-Skoda International Piano Competition in Vienna, the "Citta di San Donà di Piave" International Piano Competition, the Ischia International Piano Competition, and the "Citta di Sarzana" International Piano Competition in Italy. Furthermore, Julian has advanced as a finalist or semi-finalist in prestigious competitions, including the Pietro Argento International Piano Competition, Verona International Piano Competition, Neapolitan International Piano Competition, George Gershwin International Piano Competition, Seattle International Piano Competition, Ricard Vines International Piano Competition, and Campillos International Piano Competition. 

 

Julian Jaeyoung Kim, as a Bechstein Artist, has captivated audiences worldwide with performances that combine technical brilliance, emotional depth, and artistic sensitivity. As part of the prestigious Bechstein Concert Series, Julian has performed in numerous cities, including Frankfurt, Nürnberg, Düsseldorf, Berlin, Paris, and Manchester, showcasing their exceptional talent on the finest instruments.

 

Julian's artistry has graced some of the world’s most iconic venues. Highlights include performances at Ehrbar Saal by C. Bechstein in Vienna, Austria, and the renowned Klavierhaus in New York City, USA. Julian’s talent has been celebrated in Norway at the Kabuso Art Center and the historic Troldhaugen Concert Hall in Bergen. Other notable European performances include appearances at the Teatro Jofre in Ferrol, Spain, the Bellini Theatre in Catania, and the G. Rossini Theatre in Pesaro, Italy.

 

Julian’s connection to Germany has been influential, with memorable performances at the Olberg Kirchengemeinde and the Ev. Apostel-Paulus Church in Berlin, and Palais Lichtenau in Potsdam. Julian has brought their artistry to life in the United Kingdom at venues such as St. Marylebone Parish Hall in London.

 

Julian has left an indelible mark in Italy with performances at the Villa Sandra Hall in Milano, the E.F. Dall’Abaco, and the Nuovo Montemezzi Auditorium in Verona. Their artistry has also resonated with audiences at prestigious North American venues, including Steinway Hall, Loewe Theatre, Opera America Hall in New York City, and the Gateway Theatre in Vancouver, Canada.

 

Beyond Europe and North America, Julian has charmed audiences in the Netherlands with performances at the Lutherse Kerk Hall in Haarlem, the Remonstrants Kerk Hall in Alkmaar, the Slot Hall in Schagen, and the Ruinekerk Hall in Bergen. In Finland, their talent was celebrated at the Mäntän Klubi Hall in Mänttä.

 

As a recording artist, in 2023, the label KNS Classical released his debut album, ‘Brahms Resonances.’ This work features an exquisite selection from Johannes Brahms' oeuvre, including the Piano Sonata No. 3 in F minor, Op. 5, and the intricately structured Variations on a Theme by Paganini, Op. 35 Books I and II. The album garnered widespread acclaim, receiving laudatory reviews from numerous prominent publications in the classical music sphere, including Gramophone, InterludeHK, Klassik Huete, and Fanfare.

 

In 2024, he signed a contract with Hänssler Classic, a distinguished label in the classical music world. His album, featuring an array of Beethoven’s piano sonatas, is slated for release under this prestigious imprint. C. Bechstein and Bärenreiter sponsor this project.

 

He completed a Doctor of Musical Arts degree at the University of Southern California Thornton School of Music in 2024. His principal teachers included Matti Raekallio, Jeffrey Swann, Bernadene Blaha, Angela Cheng, and Eteri Andjaparidze.

 

Julian is a C. Bechstein Artist.