Brian received both undergraduate (B.A., Trombone Performance & Music History) and graduate (M.A. Music Education) degrees from Oberlin Conservatory of Music, Oberlin, Ohio. He first taught in the Maple Heights (Ohio) School District, where he doubled the size of the instrumental music department and created many new performance opportunities for the young musicians. In 1991, Brian moved to Frederick becoming the Instrumental Music Director at Linganore High School. In 1995 he was invited to be Music Director at the new Urbana High School. His groups at both schools garnered excellence and superior musicianship awards. In 1999, Brian switched to teaching elementary instrumental music, instructing band and orchestra classes at five county elementary schools, a position he still enjoys today. In 1993, Brian joined the music faculty of Hood College, teaching and conducting the Wind Ensemble, applied studies in brass instruments, and classes in band/orchestral conducting. Combining high expectations, a caring approach, and refined baton technique, Brian has conducted numerous, spectacular performances in Hood College's performance halls. Many of his former students have gone on to successful careers in teaching and music performance. Brian's various teachers had a profound impact on his approach to musicianship and performance. His primary mentors include Walter J. Gier, director of the Ringgold Band (Reading, PA); Thomas E. Cramer, Prof., Trombone (Oberlin); Per Brevig, Principal Trombone (Metropolitan Opera Orchestra) & Prof., Trombone (Oberlin); Denis Wick, Principal Trombone (London Symphony Orchestra). He's additionally grateful to conducting teachers Robert Baustian, Prof., Conducting (Oberlin) & Director Santa Fe Opera, as well as to Daniel Moe, Prof., Choral Conducting & Studies (Oberlin) who influenced Brian's baton style and passionate approach to music.

Brian has performed with the Spires off and on since 1999. Additionally, he conducted the Spires' October 2022 'Championship Music' concert. He said,

"the experience left a meaningful and lasting impression on me. The dedication of the musicians, flexibility of the ensemble, and family-like unity of the members made the performance wonderfully unique and beautiful. When the director-position opening was announced, I had no choice but to apply!"

Brian is extremely honored to have been named Conductor & Music Director and thrilled to lead Spires into the future with enthusiasm and exciting performances.