Don believes that there is music inside everyone. As an instructor his goal is to teach the language of music so that his students can let it out! Don blends the fundamentals of music with his ability and background, to guide his students as they learn, develop and express their unique connection to music.
Don Julin has been part of the Northern Michigan Music scene since the early 80's. He has taught master classes at Blissfest, Classical Mandolin Society of America conferences, New Direction Cello Association conferences and at the Cesare Pollini Conservatory of Music in Italy.
He is widely known as an active professional musician, composer and recording engineer. He has been voted Best All-Around Musician in the Northern Express Readers Choice Poll three times. Don placed in the top 5 at the National
Mandolin Championship and 1st place in
Walnut Valley Festival's, New Song Showcase Instrumental, three years in a row. He has been featured in both
Mandolin Magazine and
Mandolin Quarterly. He is director of Traverse City’s first and only mandolin orchestra,
88 Strings. Don is the founder and leader of the very popular
Neptune Quartet. You can often experience his music at local venues such as
Red Ginger,
Scott’s Harbor Grill, and
Horizon Books.
Music students typically participate in Winter and Spring concerts. Don covers mostly traditional American music styles such as Blues,
Jazz, Country, Bluegrass and Rock. He offers individual and group lessons, and can be contracted for workshops. His lesson studio is located at
Logan's Landing in Traverse City, Michigan. He accepts students at all levels and schedules lessons Monday through Thursday. Contact Don directly via
email or call him at (231) 392-9184 to inquire further.