Composer
He/Him
Brian Junttila is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Music in Composition at the Florida State
University College of Music in Tallahassee, Florida, United States. As a composer and trombonist,
his main musical goal is to hold a semblance of tradition while maintaining contemporary flair. A
few ways he continues to realize this goal is by writing for unusual ensembles, picking topical texts
for his vocal music, and collaborating with dancers and visual artists to create multi-disciplinary art.
His current projects are inspired by his Finnish heritage, incorporating imagery from the country or
melodies of traditional music.
He attained his Master's degree in Music Theory and Composition (M.M. '21) from Florida State
University where he studied composition with Dr. Liliya Ugay, Dr. Clifton Callender, and Dr. Mark
Wingate. Previously, he received his Bachelor's degree in Music Composition (B.M. '19) from James
Madison University where he studied composition with Dr. Eric Guinivan and Dr. Jason Haney.
Brian’s music has been performed or recorded by several institutional ensembles as well as the
Burgin String Quartet, Polymorphia New Music Ensemble, Civitasolis Reed Quintet, Unheard-
Of//Ensemble, Austin Peay State University Wind Ensemble, and James Madison University Wind
Symphony. His works have also been performed at the Sewanee Music Center, Brevard Music
Center, Atlantic Music Festival, and several conferences in the United States.
Contact:
bajunttila@gmail.com
Featured on this episode of the Theorist Composer Collaboration podcast is the composer Brian Junttila and his piece Concertino for Saxophone. Music theorist Aaron D’Zurilla discusses with Brian his background, inspirations, ...