"“Bria Skonberg looks like a Scandinavian angel, plays trumpet like a red hot devil, and sings like a dream.” – The Wall Street Journal

New York-based trumpeter, vocalist, and composer Bria Skonberg links the present with the past by playing inventive arrangements of traditional jazz oeuvres, clever reinterpretations of contemporary classics, and original compositions with genuine heart and dynamic flair. Skonberg is a two-time Juno Award Nominee for Best Vocal Jazz Album, winning the award in 2017. She has also garnered over 6 millions streams on Spotify, made the Top 5 on the Billboard jazz charts, and was voted #2 Rising Star by Downbeat Magazine. 

Recently, Skonberg has sung the music of Aretha Franklin alongside Michelle Williams, played with U2 at the Apollo, sat in with the Dave Matthews band, appeared as a featured guest with Jon Batiste, and performed the national anthem at Madison Square Garden. Her latest recording project—produced by Grammy Award-winner Eli Wolf—prominently features Skonberg’s compelling songwriting skills, highlights her fiery trumpet playing and smoky vocals, and solidifies her as a truly unique voice in the jazz-blues crossover realm.

Skonberg first appeared at GPAC as a featured member of the 2019 Monterey Jazz Festival Touring Band alongside Cécile McLorin Salvant, Jamison Ross, Melissa Aldana, and Christian Sands. A highly sought-out performer and educator, Skonberg is the leader of the Sisterhood of Swing large ensemble, represents Jazz at Lincoln Center in schools, is co-director of the New York Hot Jazz Champ, and is currently creating original educational programming for the Louis Armstrong Museum. 

Find your center with rising jazz star Bria Skonberg.