Julien Labro is a rising international star in both classical music and jazz. Born in Marseilles, France, he has played with symphony orchestras and jazz bands. In 2005, he took first prize in the Art Van Damme International Jazz Accordion Competition in Dallas, the Vivian Stolaruk International Entertainment Award in Detroit, and (as part of an all-star ensemble) first prize in the Heineken Jazz Starquest.
A child prodigy, Labro was graduated from Marseille Conservatory of Music by age 15. He won a quick succession of international awards, including first prize in the Coupe Mondiale in 1996 and the Castelfidardo Competitions in 1997. After sweeping first place in the Marcel Azzola, Jo Privat, and Medard Ferrero competitions in 1995 and 1998, Labro began studying under acclaimed accordion maestro Peter Soave. The association with Soave resulted in the opportunity for Labro to fulfill his dream of moving to the United States.
Under Soave’s tutelage, he has mastered the bayan (classical accordion) and its repertoire, and discovered the bandoneón (tango accordion). In 2005, he graduated with a Master’s Degree in Jazz Studies from Wayne State University, and is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Music Composition.