Ever curious and attracted to music from a very early age, Jules Stella discovered the violin through Irish folk music, and it was there that his passion for the instrument was born. He began his studies at the Thionville conservatory and, after several years of advanced classes at the conservatories of Nancy and Boulogne-Billancourt, obtained a master’s degree at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris under Jean-Marc Phillips-Varjabedian, with whom he studied for five years. He met many violinists, including Gérard Poulet, Jacques Ghestem, Svetlin Roussev and David Grimal. An avid chamber musician, his studies include a specific focus on the piano trio, and for many years now he has been playing in a duo with his brother, Ugo Stella. His projects have led him to play regularly in various orchestras and other ensembles, to take part in the creation of interdisciplinary shows, and to perform as a soloist. Since September 2024, Jules Stella has been a member of the Luxembourg Philharmonic Academy.
Can you present us your instrument in three words?
My best friend or my favourite tool.
Do you remember the first time you fell in love with your instrument?
I don’t remember the exact moment. Maybe the first time I heard someone play the violin, or during my first heartbreak, because it was there and I could trust him.
If you could have dinner with one composer or artist (dead or alive), who would it be and why?
I would probably go with Erik Satie, as he is super funny, and it never gets boring with this guy. I also love his approach to music. If it wasn’t for a dinner, I would also like to spend time with Mozart, Brahms or Schubert. Someone more easy-going.
If you had to impress someone at an audition, what piece would you play?
I think the Scottish Fantasy by Max Bruch is very underrated, so that is what I would play.
What have been your favourite moments with the Luxembourg Philharmonic Academy so far?
I think my very first concert here, because we played one of my favourite pieces, the First Symphony by Prokofiev.
When you’re not busy playing music, where are we most likely to find you?
I climb a lot. As a child I either wanted to be a climber or a musician. I also like to forge sometimes.
What three songs are living rent-free in your head?
Queen Bee by Taj Mahal. Mayra Andrade is a phenomenal singer, so anything by her. I also really enjoy listening to Joey Bada$$.
©: Sebastien Grebille
