Ep19 Embracing Ambiguity - Julian Marshall

Luke talks to renowned composer, songwriter, teacher & musician, Julian Marshall about his composition process, the benefits of not trying to control your own life. Julian gives some great musical insight and tells some interesting stories. 

Julian delves into his extensive musical career, from his classical training at the Royal College of Music to his experiences in various bands and his transition into teaching and composing. He shares personal stories, including a pivotal moment in 1981 when he faced uncertainty after leaving a successful band Marshall Hain. The discussion explores themes of vulnerability, confidence, and creativity, highlighting the emotional and artistic aspects of music. Julian also talks about his recent projects and the influence of poetry on his work.

Other previous bands: The Flying Lizards and Eye to Eye

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Introduction to Julien Marshall (00:00:05)
Julien Marshall introduces himself as a musician with a long and varied career.

Classical Training and Early Career (00:00:15)
Julien discusses his classical training at the Royal College of Music and early band experiences.

Teaching and Composition Transition (00:01:03)
He shares his transition from performing to teaching and composing, focusing on classical compositions.

Emotional Response to Music (00:02:52)
Julien reflects on the emotional qualities of music, emphasizing tenderness and vulnerability.

Confidence and Vulnerability (00:03:35)
He explores the relationship between confidence and vulnerability in creative expression.

Story from 1981 (00:04:51)
Julien recounts a pivotal moment in 1981 after leaving his band and feeling lost.

Unexpected Opportunities (00:05:42)
A chance encounter leads to a collaboration that ultimately connects him with Warner Brothers.

Challenges of Success (00:07:36)
He discusses the challenges faced after signing with Warner Brothers and working with Gary Katz.

The Role of Chance in Creativity (00:08:04)
Julien reflects on how unexpected events can lead to beautiful outcomes in music.

Creative Transformation (00:08:41)
He describes the transformative experience of creative encounters and their impact on his journey.

Exploring Uncertainty in Composition (00:11:12)
Julien discusses the concept of uncertainty in music composition and its importance.

Splurge and Craft Approach (00:12:01)
He introduces his method of composing, combining spontaneous creation with structured crafting.

Integration of Brain Functions (00:13:06)
Julien references Ian Gilchrist's work on how different brain functions contribute to creativity.

Collaborations Inspired by Poetry (00:15:52)
He shares his recent projects inspired by the poetry of Gertrude Coleman.

New Directions in Music (00:17:43)
Julien expresses a renewed interest in jazz and the influence of past experiences on his current work.

Reflection on the Podcast Experience (00:18:25)
Julien shares his enjoyment of discussing music and spontaneous creativity during the podcast.

Keywords

composer, songwriter, music career, classical training, band experiences, teaching, composing, songwriting, emotional aspects of music, creative expression, vulnerability, confidence, improvisation, music composition, Royal College of Music, Marshall band, Flying Lizards, Deborah Berg, mentoring, public performances, uncertainty in creativity, splurge and craft method, Dr. Iain McGilchrist, brain hemispheres, intuitive creativity, structured experiences, Gertrude Coleman, jazz roots, musical settings, spontaneous musical expression, connection in music, artistic journey.