German drummer Julian Fau is recognized as one of the most versatile and compelling voices of his generation in European jazz. Known for his technical brilliance, nuanced touch, and deep musical sensitivity, Fau moves effortlessly between modern jazz, big band traditions, and contemporary improvised music.
He studied at the University of Music in Nuremberg, graduating in 2009 with distinction (summa cum laude), and continued his training at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam with Martijn Vink, Marcel Serierse, Hannes Nied, and H.G. Brodmann. Fau has received multiple awards, including three prizes at the Bruno Rother Jazz Competition, the City of Fürth Young Talent Award, and in 2016 the Bavarian Arts Promotion Prize. He was also a member of the Bundesjazzorchester (BuJazzO), appearing on the acclaimed recordings BuJazzO Vol. 9 – Originals and City Grooves.
Fau has performed extensively throughout Europe and beyond, with tours in Italy, Poland, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Hungary, Austria, Switzerland, France, Russia, Serbia, and Kazakhstan. He has collaborated with internationally respected artists including Tony Lakatos, Peter O’Mara, Sheila Jordan, Jermaine Landsberger, Patrick Scales, Rocky Knauer, Marcel Löffler, Mathias Bublath, Tim Collins, Martin Gjakonovski, Martin Sasse, Deborah Carter, Paolo Morello, Niels Klein, Michael Flügel, Andy Herrmann, John Ruocco, Thomas Stabenow, Steffen Schorn, and Christian Elsässer. He is a regular presence in ensembles such as the Christian Elsässer Jazz Orchestra, Sunday Night Orchestra, and the Thilo Wolf Big Band.
With his distinctive sound, stylistic flexibility, and profound musical insight, Julian Fau continues to be a highly sought-after drummer on the European and international jazz scene.