Brien has played saxophone in various ensembles. Most recently, he played baritone sax in the Diverse Instruments Ensemble in Fullerton, CA as well as the Jazz Lab Band in Fullerton. At the same time, he was playing alto sax and composing for his own art music ensemble, Granada. Before those engagements, Brien was writing and playing in The Elusive Cool and Frank Falupa. Brien is currently studying music composition and will be receiving his Bachelors degree from San Francisco State University.