Brian Urra

Brian Urra is an award-winning Chilean violinist, composer, arranger, and dancer of Irish music, with over 25 years of experience as a performer and educator. He specializes in jazz, classical, improvisation, contemporary music, and Irish traditions. Brian has performed with the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra at the New England Conservatory, Boston Symphony Hall, and Sanders Theatre. As a composer, Brian has developed his craft through lessons and experiences with award-winning composers and musicians such as Billy Childs. In 2023, Brian Urra worked alongside Eugene Friesen, a four-time Grammy award winner, performing at Carnegie Hall in the world premiere of Amor Aeternus by composer and pianist Helen Breyer. He received the 2023 Ravinia Bridges prize and a week to further their music with Billy Child, Rufus Reid, and Steve Wilson. He finished his master’s degree at the Berklee Global Jazz Institute with noteworthy distinction. As an educator, he joined the Boston Music Project in 2023 working in an elementary school alongside private students during his career. He embraces a dynamic approach to pedagogy by integrating composition as a fundamental tool for both performers and emerging musicians.