Bastien
GuitarPianoDrumsSaxophoneAudio ProductionComposition




About Bastien
I’m Bastien Brisson—also known as BAZ—a multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer with over 15 years of professional experience in music production, composition, engineering, mixing, and mastering. I’ve had the privilege of working with A-list clients across the independent music scene (NOFX, Fishbone, Rare Americans), as well as in film and television (Warner Chappell, Primary Wave, Discovery Channel).
Beyond my career in the studio and on stage, I am deeply passionate about music education. I hold a Master’s degree in Jazz and Musicology, with a specialization in education, and I bring both academic rigor and real-world experience to every lesson. My goal as an educator is to empower students to express themselves creatively while building strong technical foundations—whether they're picking up an instrument for the first time or looking to refine advanced skills.
I have over two decades of experience as a drummer and extensive performance and recording skills in guitar (acoustic and electric), bass, piano, keys, and tenor saxophone. I teach a wide range of musical styles, and I tailor my instruction to each student’s interests, learning pace, and goals. My teaching approach blends structured methodology with intuitive guidance, always encouraging curiosity, playfulness, and creativity.
As a composer, I’m comfortable writing for everything from small ensembles to full orchestras and big bands. A highlight of my creative journey was being invited to California in 2017 to collaborate with Fat Mike of NOFX after orchestrating and conducting a 50-piece symphonic version of his song The Decline. That project opened the door to an array of musical collaborations, including work with Fat Wreck Chords artists, The Aquadolls, and the Broadway musical Home Street Home.
In the studio, I focus on creating custom music tailored to each artist's voice. Whether it's designing loops for hip-hop, developing an artistic direction for a record, or scoring a film or TV show, I bring a thoughtful and collaborative spirit to every project. And as a teacher, I love guiding students through those same creative processes—helping them learn not just how to play music, but how to create it.
Whether you're interested in learning your first instrument, diving into music production, or composing original works, I’m here to help you grow your skills and discover your unique musical identity.
Looking forward to meeting you!
Q&A with Bastien
Which musician would you like to play with?
Thelonious Monk, Johnny Greenwood, Jacob Collier
Which musician has influenced you the most?
Tony Williams
What can you teach me better on your instrument than any other teacher?
To play your instrument for the music, not because of it!
How did you learn to play your instrument?
Hammering on the tiles of my parent's living room. Then on pillows, it was way less dangerous.
What equipment do you play on today?
Depends. Tama Starclassic, Yamaha Custom series, or Gretch Catalinia. Cymbals are all over the place (Bosphorus, Ziljian, Sabian, Paiste).
Which personal trait helped you the most while practicing?
Rigor.
How do you handle children?
With great respect as they could be the musicians of tomorrow. I want their musical journey to be positive and fun oriented, without neglecting the serious and precision that any practice requires.
What has been your greatest experience as a musician so far?
Conducting a philharmonic orchestra at Red Rocks.
Which record would you take with you to the desert island?
Beethoven's 6th symphony
Besides music, what else is important in your life?
Family and relationship
Level(s) Comfortable Teaching
Beginner to Advanced
What languages can you teach in?
EnglishFrenchspanish
Bands, Projects, Notable Performances, Collaborations
NOFX, Fishbone, Billy Howerdel