Billy O’Brien

Billy O'Brien is a Lecturer in Piano at the Cork School of Music, Munster Technological University, awarded a Doctor in Music Performance from Trinity College Dublin and the RIAM in 2023. His career spans solo performances with major orchestras including RTÉ Concert Orchestra and international recitals across Europe.

His educational background includes:

• Doctor in Music Performance (2023), Trinity College Dublin and RIAM
• Postgraduate studies (2016-2018) in Paris under Rena Shereshevskaya
• Training at the Royal Irish Academy of Music with Hugh Tinney and Thérèse Fahy

O'Brien's research specializes in aesthetics and performance studies, particularly regarding Maurice Ravel's Miroirs, with presentations at institutions including London's Royal Academy of Music. His performance repertoire spans classical concertos by Chopin, Ravel, and Beethoven to contemporary works.

His accolades include:

• Hibernian Orchestra Concerto Competition winner
• Maura Dowdall Concerto Competition winner
• Teissier bursary (RIAM)
• Second prize, Irish Freemason’s Young Musician of the Year

As an educator, O'Brien has taught at TU Dublin Conservatoire and the RIAM, mentoring competition-winning students at national and junior international levels. He serves on the Irish EPTA committee and founded the Waterford Chamber Music Festival launched in summer 2024, demonstrating ongoing leadership in Ireland's musical community.