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Guitarist
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Composer
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Music Instructor
Multi-Instrumentalist
Brian Koenig
Brian Koenig is a Madison-based musician, composer, and instructor best known as the neoclassical-minded lead guitarist of Lords of the Trident (as Baron Taurean Helleshaar). Offstage, he writes and performs instrumental guitar arrangements including his new album, “The Final Fantasy Collection”.
Brian is available to students, bands, and industry professionals for music projects ranging from professional session work, composition, arrangements, and music instruction.
Education & Training
Brian holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theory & History (UW-Whitewater) and an Masters in Music Composition (UNC-Greensboro), has performed across North America, Europe, and Japan, and contributed an acclaimed series of Guitar World technique lessons. He teaches at Heid Music and also maintains a private studio in Madison, teaching players of all levels in guitar, oboe, piano, theory, composition, and more.
Music Instruction
- Guitar (Classical, Jazz, Blues, Rock, Metal)
- Oboe
- Piano
- Music Theory & Composition
- Other Strings: Bass & Ukelele
Current Band Projects
The Final Fantasy Collection
A lifelong Final Fantasy fan, Brian reimagines the series’ most beloved themes as dynamic, guitar-driven instrumentals. Drawing on his classical training and metal chops, he turns melodies from FF I–X—from “Opening Theme” and “Matoya’s Cave” to “Decisive Battle” and “Zanarkand”—into meticulously arranged pieces that balance fidelity to the originals with fresh, modern energy.
Highlights
12-track instrumental album • selections from FF I–X
Faithful melodies, elevated with virtuosic guitar and rich harmony
Available on all major streaming platforms, digital download, and CD
CONCERTS & APPEARANCES
PRIVATE MUSIC LESSON'S WITH BRIAN KOENIG
With decades on stage and in the studio, a Master’s in Composition, and a track record touring internationally, Brian Koenig teaches with a blend of clear theory, practical technique, and musicality. He meets players where they are—helping absolute beginners build fundamentals and advanced musicians sharpen artistry, speed, tone, and expression.
Brian offers both online and in-person lessons. In-person lessons are subject to availability in Madison Wisconsin.
- Guitar (technique, phrasing, tone, improvisation, style studies)
- Oboe (fundamentals to collegiate level)
- Piano for guitarists and songwriters
- Music Theory & Composition (fundamentals to collegiate level)
- Bass & Ukelele: Foundations
REPERTOIRE PORTFOLIO
Listen to a compilation of samples from Brian’s repertoire including lead guitar, oboe, piano and various genre’s ranging from metal, progressive, classical and other cultural genres.