At the early age of five, Julian Shelton, a ninth-grade student at Harmony School of Excellence-Austin, found himself drawn to the piano keys, effortlessly tinkering out a simple version of "Jump" by Van Halen. Even while mastering the alphabet, Julian made music his playground and passion. 

Fast forward to his 15th year, and Julian's musical prowess has blossomed into something truly extraordinary and auspicious. Within the last couple of years, Julian has embraced every facet of the music world, showcasing extraordinary talent in playing more than 10 instruments, performing with a prestigious Austin-based band, and even launching his own music writing and lessons business, aptly named JuelTones.

Julian's crowning achievement came when he auditioned and clinched a coveted spot in The B Team, an elite house band from the prestigious School of Rock Austin. This accomplishment granted him the momentous opportunity to perform at Austin City Limits 2023 (ACL), where The B Team graced the Austin Kiddie Limits stage on a family-friendly Sunday at the festival.

During the ACL performance, Julian rocked out and took center stage as the featured drum player on several iconic songs, including "Man in the Box" by Alice In Chains, "Separate Ways" by Journey, and "Photograph" by Def Leppard.

Beyond the glitz and glamor of stardom, he envisions a career dedicated to spreading joy and healing through music therapy. 

"Of course, my number one choice is to be a famous musician," explains Julian. "But, if that doesn't work out, I definitely want to work in the music field. I am especially interested in music therapy, how music can be a way to h "al."

But Julian's talents haven't stopped at merely performing. He ventured into the realms of composition and teaching, establishing his own music business, aptly named JuelTones, where he imparts his passion for music to eager learners.

As music has impassioned Julian, it has also stretched" in ingenuity and ideas. Last summer, when other teens were flipping burgers or babysitting, Julian knew he wanted to do something fun to earn money.

"To be able to do what you love isn't working," he explained. "So, I had an idea how to earn cash with music."
 
Julian is the mastermind behind the aptly named JuelTones. This side hustle involves providing music lessons for various instruments or crafting custom songs tailored to his client's unique tastes and stories. 

"Music is my whole life. It's something I'm good and I am the happiest when I'm putting smiles on people's faces through music," Julian shared. "With JuelTones, I can make money in an enjoyable way rather than mowing lawns or other dull or grueling tasks. I get a euphoric feeling when my students get a smile on their faces."

Through teaching, he imparts technical skills and fosters music appreciation in his students. For Julian, seeing the smiles on his students' faces is more than just a paycheck—it's a validation of his purpose and passion.

As Julian's journey unfolds, Julian eagerly "awaits his next chapter. With each beat of the drum and each note sung, he continues to leave an indelible mark on the music world and beyond. So, whether streaming his songs on Apple Music or Spotify, remember that you're not just listening to Julian's songs—you're supporting Julian's meteoric rise in the music world. 
 

Listen to Julian's songs on Apple Music and Spotify.

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About Harmony Public Schools

Harmony Public Schools has more than 60 high-performing PreK-12 college preparatory charter schools throughout Texas. Harmony blends the highest standards and expectations, with a rigorous math- and science-centered curriculum and dedicated and engaged teachers and families to cultivate excellence and prepare students to succeed in college, careers, and life. At Harmony Public Schools, we believe every child can succeed, and we are committed to helping them realize their full potential. To learn more about Harmony Public Schools and our 60 campuses across Texas, please visit www.harmonytx.org.