JoAnn Falletta Conducting Fellow
Grant O’Brien is an American conductor recognized for his engaging podium presence, thoughtful programming, and deep commitment to community engagement and music education. Appointed as the inaugural JoAnn Falletta Conducting Fellow with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra for the 2025–2027 seasons, O’Brien will assist in leading a wide range of education, family, and community concerts.
Prior to his fellowship, Grant served as Assistant Conductor of the Jacksonville Symphony (2022–2024) and Augusta Symphony (2024–2025), leading diverse programs spanning family, education, and outreach performances, as well as film and pops concerts. Notable projects under his leadership include collaborations with local museums like "Artsongs: Cummer Museum's Permanent Collection," and community-focused initiatives like "Stories for Kids by Kids" that presented original children's stories narrated with live orchestral accompaniment.
As a lover of innovation and technology, Grant has been active in contributing to the advancement of multimedia performance. In the realm of film music, Grant has conducted live-to-picture film score performances with CineConcerts (Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, Elf) and Film Concerts Live (Home Alone). He also built original multimedia shows for the Eastman School of Music as they began to implement their new film composition department beginning in 2017. As a committed advocate for music education, Grant regularly works with high school and collegiate ensembles and has designed programs that introduce orchestral music in creative, accessible ways to young audiences.
Grant holds both a bachelor’s degree in Tuba Performance and a master’s degree in Orchestral Conducting from the Eastman School of Music, where his principal teachers included Neil Varon and Brad Lubman. He has also worked closely with mentors including Emmy-award winning conductor Mark Watters, and longtime principal tubist of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, Don Harry.
Originally from Houston, Texas, Grant has meaningful family ties to Western New York through Cattaraugus County and is excited to deepen his connection to the Buffalo community. His family lived on the Cattaraugus and Allegany reservation near Buffalo, with both his grandmother, Patricia, and his father growing up in the region. Patricia was a proud member of the Seneca Nation (Cattaraugus Territory, Heron Clan), and she instilled in her family a strong work ethic, resilience, and kindness—values that continue to guide Grant today. His artistic vision centers on making orchestral music accessible, impactful, and relevant, striving to create experiences that reflect and celebrate the communities he serves.
When Grant isn't buried in scores, you can find him on a jog, playing pool or cards with friends, or watching the newest Marvel movie.