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Biography

Julian Oliver is a Boston based fiddler and roots musician. Growing up surrounded by bluegrass, folk, and Western music, Julian developed an early affinity for the fiddle. Influenced by his older brother who played the instrument, Julian began Suzuki violin lessons at age five, building a foundation in classical technique before shifting his focus to Texas Style fiddling, a tradition that remains central in his playing.

Julian studied for many years with family friend and mentor Katie Glassman, developing both his technique and his passion for the rich tradition of fiddling. Influenced by players like Terry Morris, Major Franklin, Benny Thomasson, and Jimmie Don Bates, he became active in the fiddle contest scene, winning the Colorado State Fiddle Championship for the first time at age eleven. Julian's love for Texas Fiddle was supplemented by his love of western, classic country, and swing music. At 8 years old, Julian began performing at cowboy poetry gatherings around the U.S. and would go on to spend 2 years playing with the Lazy B Chuckwagon Wranglers in Estes Park, CO.

More recently, Julian has expanded his musicianship through a love of guitar, singing, and songwriting. He has toured Europe performing swing and country fiddle and won his age division at the 2023 National Oldtime Fiddlers’ Contest in Weiser, Idaho.

Julian is currently the recipient of a full scholarship at the Berklee College of Music, where he has had the opportunity to study with musical greats Bruce Molsky, Jason Anick, Joe K. Walsh, and Luis Perdomo.