Labeled an “A-list star” by Chamber Music America, Julien Labro is a frequent presence on major chamber music series, including UMS, Caramoor, Stanford Live, 92Y, Carnegie Hall Presents, SF Performances, and more. Known for his versatility, Labro collaborates closely with presenters to design customized programs tailored to each series’ artistic vision—ranging from solo and duo performances to full quintets, with repertoire spanning classical, jazz, tango, and contemporary works.
➡️ To view example of chamber music repertoire, click here.
The Big Squeeze
Julien Labro’s recent appearances at UMS, the Gilmore Keyboard Festival, and Princeton University Concerts highlight his deep passion for the “squeezebox.” Showcasing his full arsenal—accordion, bandoneon, and accordina—Labro crafts a dynamic program that spans centuries and styles. Repertoire includes works by Bach, Scarlatti, Albéniz, Piazzolla, and original compositions, all revealing the expressive range and versatility of these unique instruments across classical, tango, jazz, and contemporary genres.
100 Years of Piazzolla
At just 12 years old, Julien Labro stumbled upon Piazzolla’s Libertango in a used record store. Captivated by its sound, he was inspired to learn the bandoneon—an instrument that would forever shape his musical voice. In celebration of Astor Piazzolla’s centennial, Labro presents a program that pays tribute to the composer’s enduring legacy. Audiences will be treated to beloved classics like Libertango and Adiós Nonino, as well as lesser-known gems that reveal the full depth and innovation of Piazzolla’s work.
➡️ Watch the video teaser.
The Chanson Experiment
Rooted in the sounds of his childhood—Piaf, Brel, Aznavour, and others—Julien Labro reimagines classic French chansons through a modern lens. In this program, the accordion takes center stage as Labro bridges nostalgia and innovation, honoring the tradition while reshaping it for today’s audience. Blending original compositions and inventive arrangements, The Chanson Experiment offers a fresh take on timeless melodies. Presented by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and UMS, the program has consistently earned standing ovations and heartfelt acclaim.
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Collaborations
Duo with Jason Vieaux
After meeting at a post-gig hangout in 2007, Labro and Grammy-winning classical guitarist Jason Vieaux decided that the only thing better than playing classical music on their “not-so-typically classical” instruments—would be to do it together. The duo have since toured throughout North America with their chamber program, taking audience members on Latin-inspired journeys through original arrangements of music by Piazzolla, Gnattali, Brouwer, and more, from their albums Piazzolla and Infusion.
They have also collaborated with numerous orchestras—including the Orchestra of St. Luke’s, A Far Cry, and others—to perform the works of Astor Piazzolla, including his Double Concerto and Labro’s arrangement of Four Seasons of Buenos Aires. The duo also premiered Labro’s Canvas, a double concerto for bandoneon and guitar commissioned by the New West Symphony.
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Labro with Takacs Quartet
Julien Labro’s collaboration with the legendary Takács Quartet has brought together two distinct musical worlds in a boundary-pushing partnership. Commissioned works by acclaimed composers Bryce Dessner and Clarice Assad were written specifically for this ensemble, resulting in a genre-blending album that earned a Latin Grammy nomination for Best Classical Contemporary Composition for Labro’s Meditation #1. The group has since toured extensively, performing on many of the nation’s premier chamber music series and in iconic halls across the U.S. Building on the success of their first project, Labro and the Takács Quartet are currently preparing a second program, continuing their artistic journey with new works and expanded touring plans.
➡️ Watch the video teaser
