Julian von Flüe Trio Alpine folk between Lake Zug and Nashville

Julian von Flüe describes his music as ‘Alpine Folk’. That’s a fitting description. You can hear Swiss folk music, but also country, blues, chanson and jazz. Some elements are reminiscent of Irish folk, others of musette or tango. The accordion always remains at the centre of it all.

Von Flüe grew up surrounded by music. His father, Roland, is a jazz musician and lecturer. An old accordion was part of everyday family life from an early age. As a child, Julian first used it as a toy and even as a seat. Later, it became his instrument. He has been performing on stage since the age of ten. He learnt much not in lessons, but whilst playing with his father, at concerts and during jam sessions.

A trip in the summer of 2022 took him to Nashville. He had already been interested in country and folk music, but there they took on even greater significance. This influence can be clearly heard on ‘Dur d’Altstadt’ from 2023 and on the album ‘Alpine Folk’ from 2024.

Many of his pieces are inspired by personal events. He wrote ‘Linas chlini Wunderwält’ following the birth of his daughter. ‘Skyline Risch’ was inspired by the view from his music room across Lake Zug. So even the titles reveal something about where this music comes from.

With Marc Scheidegger on guitar and Matthias Abächerli on bass, von Flüe has played many concerts. The three know each other well and give the melodies plenty of space. A violin or mandolin is added depending on the piece.

Julian von Flüe’s accordion sounds distinctly Swiss one moment, and the next more like Nashville or a small club somewhere south of the Alps. It is precisely this blend that gives his trio its charm. And sometimes it all simply begins with a glance out of the window.