Brent Grapes

Australian Hometown: Perth
Education: Juilliard School, New York

PROFESSIONAL BIOGRAPHY
Brent Grapes has been Associate Principal Trumpet of the Sydney Symphony Orchestra since 2023. Previously, he was Principal Trumpet of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra for 10 years. Brent started his musical studies in his hometown of Perth before attending the Juilliard School in New York. Former teachers include David Elton, Raymond Mase and Mark Gould.

During his time in the United States, he established a reputation as both an orchestral trumpeter and as a soloist. In 2007, Brent was the winner of the Juilliard School concerto competition, culminating in a performance of the Jolivet Concertino for Trumpet, Piano and Strings with the Juilliard Orchestra at Lincoln Center. Brent is also a 2 time winner of the US National Trumpet Competition, in 2007 and 2008.

In November 2022, Brent is thrilled to premiere a newly commissioned trumpet concerto composed by Nigel Westlake.

Brent has performed as guest Principal Trumpet for the Sydney Symphony, the Australian World Orchestra and is a frequent guest musician with the Australian Brass Quintet. In addition to his performing roles, Brent is a passionate educator, and in addition to giving guest masterclasses at the Australian National Academy of Music and tutoring members of the Australian Youth Orchestra, he is the Head of Brass at the West Australian Academy of Performing Arts.

Last updated 2023