Julien Kasper

Julien Kasper is a professor at Berklee College of Music and a virtuoso guitarist known for his genre-defying instrumental rock. His work seamlessly integrates jazz, blues, rock, and classical influences, reflecting a teaching philosophy that emphasizes emotional authenticity over technical showmanship. At Berklee, he leads popular performance labs dedicated to Jimi Hendrix and Jeff Beck, fostering originality through stylistic immersion.

• University of Miami (BA in Jazz) and University of North Texas (MA in Jazz Studies) alumni
• Active in Boston music scene since 1996
• Acclaimed albums include Trance Groove (2010), Julien Kasper (2023), and Live at the Boston Harbor Distillery (2024)

Kasper's research interests focus on merging blues-rock pentatonics with jazz harmonies, and developing a visceral improvisation style inspired by surfing's present-moment flow. His music has been praised for its 'soulful expressionism' and 'storytelling mastery' by All About Jazz.

As a performer, he has toured internationally with Bruce Katz Band and collaborated with artists like Duke Robillard and D'Angelo. His latest trio includes drummer Zac Casher and bassist Jesse Williams, both veterans of roots music legends' sessions. Outside of music, Kasper is an avid all-season surfer, drawing parallels between wave dynamics and musical improvisation.