Julian Shively

American-born keyboardist and cellist Julian Shively now calls himself a Montrealer and is the newest member of Karen’s band. Recently we spoke with him about his passion and profession. 

What are your own musical roots?
Well, both my parents were musicians. My mom studied classical piano and violin, and my dad studied classical and jazz trumpet as well as played keyboard in a few different rock bands. My parents actually met in grad school both studying composition, however neither play seriously anymore. I am definitely lucky to have grown up exposed to every kind of music out there, from jazz to classical music to rock to soul/funk to anything else you can imagine.

When and why did you start playing music?
My mom tells me that even before she met my dad, she decided that her first-born would play cello. However, I actually started on piano at age 4, then cello at age 5, both classically. Ever since then I’ve continued to play both instruments, practicing nearly every day on each. However, I’ve been playing more jazz these days, but still play classical shows and gigs every now and then.

Are they the same reasons you do it today?
Probably not. As a kid, I often only practiced because my parents told me to, but I did enjoy playing or they surely wouldn’t have been as persistent about it. I think today, I feel a much stronger connection through my understanding of music, and how it plays a more important role in my life.

How have you evolved as an artist over that time?
I think as an artist I’m innately constantly evolving my craft in every context. The art one produces I think reflects one’s own experiences, at least very often, and I feel this is the case for me as well.

What are the challenges of the vocation?
I think the biggest is the lack of stability is probably the biggest hurdle. It’s also a very social work environment, so sometimes you have to deal with people you don’t want to (I’ve gotten pretty lucky on this front!).

What are the rewards?
I get to do what I truly love as a fulltime job! What’s better than that?

What have been some career highlights?
I would say having the opportunity to travel the world to play music is a big highlight, with a few of my favorite places being Italy, Iceland, and the Bahamas. I’m also fortunate enough to have been able to solo with 8 separate orchestras through competitions and other projects I’ve been able to set up, not without help from my parents and friends! Each time feels like a celebration and reminds me why I chose the profession I did.

What makes a good song?
I’m not really sure. To me, a song can be as complex as possible, with hundreds of measures and interconnecting melodies and harmonies, or just a 2-bar phrase, and will be just as good.

What makes a good live show?
Generally, at least one of 2 things: great music, or great hosts. If you have both, you should be golden!

What are your first impressions of Karen, the band, and Femoir?
Lovely people, talented musicians, and a terrific album! Karen’s voice is incredible, and she is the nicest person out there. I can’t wait to play more!

What’s on your musical agenda for 2025?
More of the same, hopefully!