Julian Ramirez
Julian Ramirez is a sophomore at North Mecklenburg High School where he plays the alto saxophone as a member of the Symphonic Band. “He is a leader in his section and the entire band, based on his personal qualities and his musical knowledge,” says Kevin Herriman, band director.
Julian began classical and jazz saxophone lessons in the 4th grade and now continues private study with Patrick Brown, an instructor with the Davidson College Jazz Ensemble. He is a member of the Spirit Square Saxophone Group and has co-founded a jazz group with the assistance of Davidson College students. He has also attended the Community School of the Arts Band Camp for several years.
While in the 8th grade, Julian won 2nd Place in the NC State Finals for Junior Individual Performance in the National History Day competition. He wrote a one-man play entitled “Civil Rights and All That Jazz: Impacting 1960’s America.” In this play, he performed John Coltrane’s “Alabama” to illustrate how jazz can tell pivotal historical narratives. In addition to his 2nd place recognition for this performance, Julian was awarded a Special Prize by the Somerset Place Foundation for an outstanding project relating to African American history.
Julian studies in the International Baccalaureate Program and holds a 4.0 unweighted GPA. He also is a member of a local Crew team.
