• Guitarist

  • Composer

  • Music Instructor

Multi-Instrumentalist

Brian Koenig

I currently reside in Madison, Wisconsin as a musician, composer, and instructor best known as the neoclassical-minded lead guitarist of Lords of the Trident (as Baron Taurean Helleshaar).

I was a founding member of the band Luna Mortis  that was signed in 2008 to the record label Century Media, with a roster that includes: Lamb of God, Queensryche, Napalm Death, Arch Enemy and many other metal brethren.

Offstage, I write and perform instrumental guitar arrangements including my album, “The Final Fantasy Collection”. 

Education & Training

I hold Bachelor of Arts in Music Theory & History from UW-Whitewater and a Masters in Music Composition from UNC-Greensboro. 

During my career, I have performed across North America, Europe, and Japan, and contributed an acclaimed series of Guitar World technique lessons.

I currently offer professional music services and teach music lessons in-person lessons at Heid Music and private lessons (mainly online) in Madison, WI.

Learn More About Me
Baron Taurean Helleshaar

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

I started where you did, at the very beginning. Since then, I’ve spent over 30 years in music ~ as a performer, a session musician, a composer, and a teacher. 

As my career evolved, I’ve toured internationally, contributed to Guitar World, released original recordings, worked with record labels, and taught students at every level from complete beginners to college audition prep. Whatever you need from a musician, chances are it falls somewhere in what I do. Take a look around and let’s figure out how I can help.

Online & In Person Lessons

I teach a blend of clear theory, practical technique, and musicality. I meet all levels of players where they’re at from absolute beginners to advanced musicians who want to sharpen their artistry, speed, tone, and expression. Lessons are offered both online and in-person, which are subject to availability in Madison Wisconsin. 

Collegiate Bound Students

I offer advanced training in the majority of my lesson offerings. Piano is available up to intermediate levels. It is also a an instrument that that I encourage my collegiate bound students to dedicate some time to learning the fundamentals before heading into your studies.

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Event Booking

I perform regularly as a solo instrumental act with a vast repitoire. Rates are available upon request.

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What's Offered

  • Conventions
  • Festivals
  • Venues
  • Solo VGM performances
  • Neoclassical to metal
  • Jazz style performances

Fill-Ins, Special Performances, & Instruction

As time allows I also offer professional music services for musicians, bands, venues, and events. 

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What's Offered

  • Session Work
  • Music Composition
  • Ceremony Composition
  • Seminar Appearances & Instruction

CONCERTS & APPEARANCES

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.

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Repertoire Selections

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View Brian's Repertoire Portfolio

THE FINAL FANTASY COLLECTION

As a lifelong Final Fantasy fan, I reimagined the series’ most beloved themes as dynamic, guitar-driven instrumentals. Drawing on my classical training and metal chops, my goal was to turn melodies from FF I to 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

Purchase the Album