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Brian picked the guitar at 12, began more serious self-study of music at 14 and from there never really looked back. Throughout school most of his spare time was consumed by his passion for music and formed his first band, The Holy Rollers" in tenth grade at St. Francis Xavier High School.
At 16 Brian moved to California to live with his father and began performing regularly at open mics, school events, talent shows, and small festivals in the region. He drew influence from the work of Michael Hedges, Mike Oldfield, John Frusciante, Pink Floyd, Andres Segovia, Steve Vai, Shimshai, Lenny Breau, and many others.
Upon graduating, Brian moved to Quebec to live in an ashram in the Laurentians, studying and living a yogic lifestyle. While there he was introduced to Kirtan or group singing of Sanskrit verses and learned how to play the harmonium. Studying yoga in Quebec would lead him to New Zealand, where he spent the next year teaching yoga, busking at the local farmers' market every week, and hitch-hiking around the country. He performed at the Parihaka International Peace Festival, as well as the Festival of Lights. Brian currently resides in Edmonton, playing music and working as a cabinet maker.
Brian is a recent and welcome addition to the U22 fold. He introduced himself to Rhea at the 2009 Folk Festival by handing her a CD of his original songs. His intricate, delicate guitar work coupled with sweet soulful vocals and solid song structure identified him as an exceptional young talent. Recently he performed under the U22 banner at the East meets West Street Festival and he drew in listeners from blocks away. Brian is a unique and gifted musician who will surely have a long and bright future as a performer. |
