Julian Atkinson

Raised in Renfrewshire, Julian learned double bass with Bill Hoare and David Inglis in Scotland before studying with Robin McGee at the Royal Academy of Music. Julian joined the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra in 1985 and continued his studies with Thomas Martin.

Julian is Principal No2 Double Bass with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra where he has worked with three renowned Music Directors - Sir Simon Rattle, Sakari Oramo and Andris Nelsons – and been part of a well respected bass section which has clocked up a combined service of almost 250 years.

In addition to the CBSO, Julian enjoys performing chamber music and is a regular player with Birmingham Contemporary Music Group. Julian also coaches the basses of CBSO Youth Orchestra, and the basses of Birmingham Schools' Concert Orchestra, one of the many ensembles of Birmingham Music Service