We were lucky to catch up with Brent Birckhead recently and have shared our conversation below.
Brent, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
Initially, music became my refuge. As a shy child facing social challenges, immersing myself in music allowed me to express my emotions and connect with others in a way that words often failed to do. I felt a little more empowered each time I performed, slowly shedding my shyness.
Family support also played a significant role. Growing up, my father and I attended baseball games, track meets, and gigs to watch my brother as he performed. Their encouragement instilled in me a deep belief in my abilities and the importance of having a strong support system.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am an artist deeply rooted in the world of modern music, dedicated to pushing musical boundaries while honoring the rich legacies that came before me. My journey has been fueled by a passion for composition and performance, primarily through the lens of woodwind artistry. Each note I play is a reflection of my life experiences—an exploration of emotions, social commentary, and a celebration of humanity.
What excites me most about my work is the ability to connect with audiences on multiple levels. My music transcends genre, fusing traditional and contemporary styles, inviting listeners into a rich tapestry of sound that evokes deep emotions and provokes thought. I believe in the power of music to inspire change and foster connection, which drives my artistic mission.
In addition to performing, I am committed to education. As a professor of saxophone at the Baltimore School for the Arts and Morgan State University, I take great pride in nurturing young talent. It’s incredibly rewarding to help shape the next generation of musicians, sharing the knowledge and lessons I’ve gathered throughout my career.
Currently, I am focused on the release of my second album, “Cacao,” which launched in April 2024. This project represents my growth and reflects my ongoing commitment to sonic experimentation. I’m also in the middle of my third project called “the Exchange”. This is a three-month residency and performance series celebrating the best of the Baltimore Music Scene. The third installment of this series is happening Feb 13th with special guests Chelsey Green and Imani Grace at the Keystone Korner.
Looking ahead, I have several exciting performances lined up where I’ll be showcasing the new material from “Cacao.”and “The Exchange”
Feb 13th Keystone Korner Baltimore
Feb 16th Mid Atlantic Jazz Festival in Bethesda
I aim to continue expanding my reach and impact within the jazz community while fostering a sense of community and collaboration among artists. Through my music and teaching, I hope to leave a lasting legacy that inspires others to explore their own artistic journeys.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities stand out as particularly impactful: perseverance, adaptability, and a strong sense of curiosity.
Perseverance: The path to success in the arts is rarely straightforward, and perseverance has been essential in overcoming challenges. There have been moments of doubt and setbacks, but staying committed to my vision and continuously pushing forward has been crucial. My advice to those early in their journey is to embrace challenges as part of the process. Setbacks can be valuable learning experiences that foster resilience. Remember that consistency and determination often lead to growth and eventual success.
Adaptability: The ability to adapt to new situations and embrace change has greatly influenced my artistic development. In the ever-evolving world of music, being open to trying different styles and collaborations has enriched my craft. For those starting their journey, I encourage them to remain flexible and willing to explore various avenues. Engage with different genres, collaborate with diverse artists, and stay open to feedback. Adaptability not only broadens your skill set but also helps you discover new facets of your artistry.
Curiosity: A genuine curiosity about music, culture, and the world has fueled my creativity and inspired my work. This desire to learn has led me to experiment with different sounds and themes in my music. My advice for emerging artists is to cultivate their curiosity. Attend workshops, listen to various genres, read widely, and immerse yourself in experiences that inspire you. The more you explore and learn, the more you’ll be able to infuse your work with fresh ideas.
By developing these qualities—perseverance, adaptability, and curiosity—young artists can navigate their journeys with a sense of purpose and resilience, ultimately leading to a fulfilling and impactful career in the arts.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did was instill a strong sense of support and encouragement throughout my journey. They made it a priority to be present at my performances, sporting events, and various activities, creating an environment that valued commitment and passion. Their consistent involvement demonstrated the importance of family and community in pursuing one’s dreams.
Additionally, they fostered a love for music in our household, encouraging me to explore my artistic inclinations without fear of judgment. This open environment allowed me to develop my skills and express myself freely. Their unwavering belief in my abilities provided the foundation of confidence I needed to navigate the challenges of my artistic career.
Ultimately, their support and encouragement shaped my mindset, helping me understand that perseverance, dedication, and the pursuit of passions are essential elements of success. This nurturing environment has had a lasting impact on my artistry and personal growth.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.brentbirckhead.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brentbirckhead
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brentbirckhead
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/brentbirckhead
- Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/7eum9sX0gBeG0eOlRmtrOv
Image Credits
Kirby Griffin (2 blue photos)
Kasia Idzkowska (last 2 phots)
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
