Hometown:
Collegeville, Pennsylvania
Education:
Eastman School of Music, B.M. Performance, grad. 2026
Bio:
Darren Brady is a Philadelphia-based trombonist in the second year of his undergraduate studies at the Eastman School of Music. He is often seen performing with The Syracuse Orchestra, Empire Film and Media Ensemble, Symphony in C, as well as ensembles at both Eastman and the Curtis Institute of Music. A lover of all brass, Darren often plays alto trombone, euphonium, and flugelhorn in ensembles and also composes/arranges for various brass groups. Darren was named as a finalist for the 2024 American Trombone Workshop National Solo Competition.
What inspired you to become a musician?
I just really love music and I couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
Who are your all-time favorite composers and/or pieces? Why?
My favorite composers are Strauss and Respighi, and my favorite pieces are Respighis Pines of Rome and Strauss’s An Alpine Symphony. They just remind me of nature and the beauty of the world.
What is an interesting fact about you and/or your instrument?
I absolutely love music theory.
When taking a break from music-making, what is your favorite thing to do?
I love spending time in nature and biking on trails.
Why did you choose the NRO?
I chose the NRO because of the outstanding reputation and great program for this summer. I am also very excited to see the beautiful sights of Breckenridge.