BM from Duquesne University; Master’s from Brigham Young University

Email: brian.pappal@utah.edu

Staff Pianist Brian Pappal’s diverse musical journey includes extensive experience as a professional pianist, vocalist, composer, arranger, and pedagogue. In addition to his work at the University of Utah, Brian has served as a company class pianist at Ballet West and Carolina Ballet. 

For 12 years, he was the music director and organist for two large Protestant churches in the Eastern United States. As a jazz pianist, he has performed with big bands and jazz chamber ensembles and on multiple albums. His compositions and arrangements have been showcased globally, including on television and radio. His first ballet composition, “In the time of...,” a collaboration with choreographer Cherylyn Lavagnino, was commissioned by the University of Utah School of Dance and premiered in the Spring of 2022.

Brian’s passion for exploring music and sharing its beauty with audiences unites his varied experiences. In addition to his work as a pianist, Brian is an active conductor. He is the Music Director of the Wasatch Symphony and the Mapleton Chorale and serves as a guest and cover conductor at Ballet West. He holds music degrees from Duquesne University and Brigham Young University.

When not making music, Brian enjoys cooking, reading, and spending time in nature with his wife, Ash.