Born and raised in Austin, Texas, Sydney Barber started his musical training in 2nd grade playing piano for his music teacher's class. It was during this time that he discovered his passion for teaching music. In addition to teaching, he also loves performing. While in Austin, he has performed in various venues including: The Paramount Theatre, State Theatre, The Frank Erwin Center, the Long Center, The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, City Hall, restaurants and many other events. He was awarded “Most Outstanding Musician” from the Kealing Magnet School (2007), “Most Outstanding Musician” from the McCallum Fine Arts Academy (2011) and “Most Outstanding Musician” from the Austin Chamber Music Center (2011). In addition to playing piano, he also sang in the Austin All-City Choir (2004 and 2005) and was Drum Major of his high school band where he played trombone and tuba (2005-present).
In 2011, Sydney started his degree at the University of North Texas (UNT). While he was there, he sang in top vocal ensembles at UNT both classical and jazz and accompanied various vocal ensembles and private lessons (vocal and instrumental). In 2017, Sydney graduated from UNT as a trained pianist and vocal pedagogue. His job titles include: Music Director, Pianist/Accompanist, Conductor, Judicator,/Composer/Arranger and Guest Artist.
Sydney has worked with a number of organizations including: University of North Texas (pianist), many High/Middle Schools (teacher/pianist), many theatre companies around DFW (pianist/music director), Booker T Washington (judge), Mansfield Symphony Orchestra (pianist), various churches around DFW (pianist), etc. He has performed in many venues/events (including the Dallas Winspear Opera House and the Denton Arts and Jazz Festival), however, since 2016 the bulk of his performing has been at his church (Faith United Presbyterian Church) and Musical Theatre Productions all over DFW including: Mary Poppins, Shrek, Hunchback of Notre Dame, Sister Act, Evita, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Big Fish, 9 to 5, The Little Mermaid, Little Shop of Horrors, Cabaret, Will Rogers’s Follies, and many more.
Sydney is not only dedicated to the art of musicianship and performing but also to the art of teaching. With his 15 years of teaching experience (ages 4-60), he can adapt to any personality and tap into the full potential of a student's musical ability. Many of his students have received the highest ratings at festivals and competitions all around the DFW area. His personality and passion for musicianship inspires his students to not only challenge themselves, but also feel confident to rise to any challenge given to them.
Sydney currently serves as a Voice & Choir Instructor at Prime Music Institute.
