The Wardlaw+Hartridge School is pleased to welcome Dr. Julian Jenson as a new member of the Performing Arts faculty. A gifted pianist, historical keyboardist and music theorist, Dr. Jenson brings an accomplished background in performance, scholarship and collaborative music-making to a role that will further strengthen W+H’s innovative Conservatory Program.
Dr. Jenson has been part of the W+H community for the past five years as the school’s Collaborative Pianist, working with soloists, chamber ensembles and choirs. Beginning this fall, he will teach Upper School AP Music Theory, continue performing with W+H ensembles and productions, and serve as Recital Coordinator. Within the Conservatory Program, he will coordinate and coach students in their required chamber music experience and work with collaborative piano students to develop the skills and artistry of accompanying.
His extensive professional background includes performances as a soloist and collaborator throughout the United States and internationally in Chile, Iceland, Italy and Japan. He has appeared on radio and television, including WQXR’s Young Artist Showcase, and recently performed with his wife, Susana Leiva, in the inaugural recital of the State Theatre of New Jersey’s Studio Series. He holds a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from Temple University, as well as a Master’s degree in piano performance from Mannes College of Performing Arts in New York, a Master’s in music theory from Florida State University in Tallahassee, and a Bachelor’s degree in piano performance from La Sierra University.
At the heart of Dr. Jenson’s teaching philosophy is the belief that musicianship extends far beyond technical skill: “My philosophy is based around the idea of ‘complete’ musicianship,” he explained, emphasizing collaboration, flexibility, research and a deeper understanding of the music students perform. “Ultimately, the goal is to connect with the humanity in themselves and others.”
Dr. Jenson sees the W+H Conservatory Program as an important vehicle for helping students develop those qualities. The program has already expanded opportunities for students to perform and collaborate at a high level, including chamber music competitions and joint recitals. Looking ahead, he hopes to create even more interdisciplinary opportunities between performance and production students, while expanding the program’s areas of study.
For Dr. Jenson, the opportunity to mentor W+H students is especially meaningful. Reflecting on the teachers who shaped his own life, he says, “If I can pay that forward to W+H's own students, I consider that a life win.”
“I am absolutely thrilled that Dr. Julian Jenson will officially be a member of our W+H Performing Arts Faculty this year,” said Performing Arts Department Chair Sharon Byrne. “As our students will tell you, he is a tremendous talent at the keyboard, has an encyclopedic knowledge about all things musical and is a delightful person whom we all adore. We are so lucky to have the opportunity of making musical memories with him and are excited for what the future holds for W+H Performing Arts!”