Oboist and teaching artist Brian Stewart has a guiding philosophy. He believes music is intricately woven into the tapestry of cultures worldwide, allowing people to express themselves and explore uncharted territories within themselves and the world. This philosophy underpins Brian's musical endeavors, from performing works by composers of color for Rochester Youth to working with a nonprofit music education organization serving low-income students of color. As a musician and educator, Brian strives to ensure that everyone, regardless of demographics or financial situation, can create and share their unique musical perspectives. A music enthusiast since childhood, Brian Stewart initially played the trombone but switched to the oboe as a high school freshman. This fortuitous decision led him to perform extensively across the Eastern United States, including with the Eastern Music Festival Orchestra in Greensboro, North Carolina, the Eastman School of Music Wind Ensemble in Rochester, New York, and Opera Columbus in Columbus, Ohio. Additionally, he serves as a substitute oboist with the Syracuse Symphoria. Brian's dedication to inclusive music education is evident through his work as a Catherine Filene Shouse Arts Leadership fellow at the Eastman School of Music, where he closely collaborated with ROCmusic, a nonprofit providing tuition-free, all-inclusive music education in Rochester. He also contributed to the Representation Matters Woodwind Quintet, performing music by composers of color in public schools and advocating for diversity in music education. Brian has earned a double major in Applied Oboe Performance and Music Education, alongside earning an Arts Leadership Certificate from the Eastman School of Music. In the fall, he is returning to Eastman in the fall to pursue his master's degree. In his professional life, Brian plays an integral role in public elementary school education, leading general music classes, teaching lessons, and directing the orchestra. Outside of music, Brian finds joy in rock climbing, thrift shopping, reading, and enjoying French cinema.

Brian is the recipient of the Robert and Mary Pickens Scholarship, The Bina Edkin Eckerd Memorial Fund for the Fine and Performing Arts, and The Carnahan-Jackson Scholarship Fund.