Julien Labro has been hailed as “the next accordion star” (Chicago Tribune) and “a triple threat: brilliant technician, poetic melodist, and cunning arranger.” Internationally recognized as one of the foremost bandoneon and accordion soloists, Labro brings unparalleled versatility to the concert stage—crossing effortlessly between classical, jazz, tango, and world music. He is a frequent collaborator with top orchestras, chamber ensembles, and presenters, offering a wide range of customizable programs that captivate audiences and push musical boundaries.
Born in France, Labro began playing the accordion at age 9, drawn early to the lyrical style of French chanson and traditional folk music. After graduating from the Marseille Conservatory and winning top prizes in major international competitions—including the Coupe Mondiale and Castelfidardo—he moved to the United States to pursue advanced studies in classical music, jazz, and composition.
A devoted admirer of Astor Piazzolla, Labro took up the bandoneon after discovering Libertango, an influence that continues to shape his artistic voice. Today, he performs with leading orchestras and on major chamber series across the globe, presenting everything from original concertos and curated Piazzolla tributes to genre-defying crossover programs. Recent orchestral collaborators include the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Boston Symphony Orchestra, New World Symphony, Orchestra of St. Luke’s, Qatar Philharmonic, Hartford Symphony, and A Far Cry, among others. Labro is also a trusted performer for orchestral and ballet repertoire requiring accordion or bandoneon, with appearances alongside the MET Chamber Orchestra, New York Philharmonic, New York City Ballet, and the Paul Taylor Dance Company.
His programs are presenter-friendly, ranging from intimate solo and duo recitals to full-scale orchestra and chamber ensemble collaborations. His artistic partners include Grammy Award-winning artists such as Maria Schneider, Cassandra Wilson, Jason Vieaux, and Miguel Zenón, and he performs frequently with the Takács Quartet, Attacca Quartet, and other top-tier chamber groups.
In 2025, Labro received a Latin Grammy nomination for Best Classical Composition for his work Meditation #1, premiered with the Takács Quartet.
His discography—including Piazzolla, Infusion, and Rise & Grind—reflects a broad musical vision that connects with diverse audiences. He has also premiered new works by composers such as Bryce Dessner, Du Yun, Avner Dorman, Clarice Assad, and Angelica Negrón.
In addition to his performing career, Labro regularly leads master classes and residencies at institutions such as Princeton University, Oberlin Conservatory, and the Cleveland Institute of Music. Upcoming highlights include the premiere of a second bandoneon concerto—a sequel to El Fueye del Tiburón—as well as performances with The Knights at Carnegie Hall, the Maria Schneider Orchestra, and top orchestras and presenters across the U.S. and abroad.
