Bria was introduced to jazz by a spirited public school band program and local festival in her hometown of Chilliwack, British Columbia, where both her parents were teachers.  She is now regularly featured as a guest faculty member and clinician, giving masterclasses and private instruction as well as directing and performing with student ensembles at all levels. Bria is a Co-Founder/Director of the NY Hot Jazz Camp and has served as faculty at the Teagarden Jazz Camp (Sacramento Jazz Education Foundation), Centrum Jazz Camp, Geri Allen Jazz Camp and Junior Jazz Academy (JALC). She has performed hundreds of educational concerts and workshops for students of all ages, has led an ensemble for Jazz at Lincoln Center’s “Jazz for Young People” outreach program and is an Educational Advisor to the Louis Armstrong House Museum in Queens.  She has been an Artist in Residence collaborating with Syracuse University, Ball State University, UNC Greensborough, Jazz Arts Group in Columbus, Cape May Regional Schools, and more.  She has performed multiple times for both the Jazz Education Network Conference and International Trumpet Guild where she is the Chair of the Jazz Recommendations Committee.  

 

Featured Masterclass Topics:

 

Traditional Jazz Stylings: An interactive look at the art of New Orleans ensemble playing, its historical elements and the foundational improv that set up jazz to come. 

 

One Voice: Tips for all instrumentalists on how to link playing with singing, including breath support, resonance, ear training, internalizing and interpreting melodies, improvising, transcribing, and live performance.

 

Breathing Strategies for Brass Players: Understanding the instrument behind the instrument, using breath to enhance core strength and relieve tension for greater flexibility.

 

“If You Hear Something, Play Something”: How to find, listen to, and encourage your creative voice to authentically communicate your ideas. 

 

Please refer to the contact page for inquiries