Brian Shifflet was born and raised in the area, and had a love of music even as a small child. He began studying piano at age 7, and began studying cello at age 12. One of his first teachers was Teresa Perez, through our own Firelands Symphony School of Music. After graduating from Port Clinton High School, he attended Eastern Michigan University, majoring in Music Education and Cello, and continuing by getting a Master’s in Music Education from Bowling Green State University. After teaching orchestra for a few years, Brian returned to the area and currently performs with the Firelands Symphony Orchestra, Firelands String Quartet, and various solo performances around the region. Brian also teaches cello, violin, and piano in his private studio and through the Firelands Symphony School of Music.

In addition to performing and teaching, Brian is also the Visitors Experience Manager for Shores & Islands Ohio, our local visitors bureau. He is a member of North Coast Narrative, an historical reenacting group focusing on living history and the presentation of various historical topics. Brian currently lives in Catawba with his partner Aaron and their cat Bruno.