Principal Trumpet of the West Australian Symphony Orchestra since 2013, Brent Grapes started his musical studies in his hometown of Perth before attending the Juilliard School in New York.
During his time in the United States, he established a reputation as both an orchestral trumpeter and as a soloist. In 2007, Brent was the winner of the Juilliard School concerto competition, culminating in a performance of the Jolivet Concertino for Trumpet, Piano and Strings with the Juilliard Orchestra at Lincoln Center. Brent was also the first trumpeter to win the Graduate soloist division of the US National Trumpet Competition for two consecutive years.
Currently in demand as a soloist, principal trumpet and chamber musician, Brent has performed concerti with orchestras in the United States, China, New Zealand and Australia. He has performed as guest Principal Trumpet for the Sydney Symphony, the Australian World Orchestra and is a frequent guest musician with the Australian Brass Quintet. In addition to his performing roles, Brent is a passionate educator, and teaches as the Head of Brass at the West Australian Academy of Performing Arts.