"One of the most diverse, interesting and approachable composers working in Scotland today." 

DEREK CLARK - HEAD OF MUSIC, SCOTTISH OPERA

Born in Edinburgh in 1970, Julian Wagstaff studied Composition with Professor Nigel Osborne, gaining his PhD in 2008. Known for his work in the theatre and concert hall, Julian has worked with most of Scotland’s professional ensembles over the years, and has recorded with the country’s leading producers, including Calum Malcolm among many others.

His works are regularly performed and broadcast across the UK and internationally, and have been heard live in Germany, Austria, Belgium, Spain, Portugal, the USA, Italy, Australia, the Netherlands and Denmark. His music appears on the Linn Records and Circular Records labels, and is published by Europa Edition.

Julian served as Composer in Residence at the School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh in 2013. His chamber opera Breathe Freely was commissioned during his tenure there, and was premiered in a production supported by Scottish Opera and conducted by Derek Clark. A recording of the opera was released on the Linn Records label in October 2015.

In recent years, Julian Wagstaff's collaborative work in the field of science and music has led to numerous invitations to speak on the subject of music and science, both within the UK and further afield. Julian has also led many successful educational workshops in Scottish schools, colleges and universities.

In November 2021, the national German radio network Deutschlandfunk broadcast a 45-minute feature on the composer's life and music, including extensive musical excerpts and interviews conducted in German.