Brian McNamara is the eldest member of the McNamara family of Carrickavoher, Aughavas, Co. Leitrim. In 1979 at the age of 12 years old he was first introduced to the Uileann Pipes by family friend Peter Maguire, a native of Mullahoran, Co. Cavan. Before receiving his first piping lesson from Peter, Brian had previously learned to play the Tin Whistle under the guidance of his father, well known flute player Michael McNamara. His first set of pipes was also made by Peter and this is the same concert -pitch set playued by Brian on this recording. Throughout his musical life Brian has always expressed his great indebtedness to Peter for everything he has selflessly given as pipe-maker and teacher. Pipe tuition from Peter together with the influence of his family meant that Peter rapidly became an accomplished piper. He remembers fondly his experiences attending workshops in Milton Malbay during the early 1980s and the influential tuition of a number of fine tutors. In addition to the influence of the music of older pipers, he was always a big admirer of contemporary pipers such as Liam O'Flynn and Jimmy O'Brien-Moran as he mastered his instrument and developed his own style.

During the 1980s Brian competed at Fleadhanna Cheoil and other musical events winning many All-Ireland titles at Junior and Senior level. He became a regular member of concert tour groups and has travelled extensively as a musician. He has become a regular tutor at workshops at Summer schools nationally and internationally and a frequent performer when time permits.

In 1988 he produced and performed on the award winning album 'Leitrim's Hidden Treasure'. This recording featured Brian and other members of the McNamara family in a recording which gave exposure to a unique repertoire of music associated with South Leitrim. His sister Deirdrie joins Brian on a number of tracks of 'A Piper's Dream' playing concertina.

On 'A Piper's Dream' Brina plays the concert-pitch set of Uilleann pipes made for him in 1979 by Peter Maguire as well as a flat-pitched (Key of 'C') chanter made by Andreas Rogge in 1999. However the set of pipes predominantly heard here on this album is a flat set (pitched in 'C') made for him by by pipe-maker Geoff Wooff in 1997. He is particularly grateful to Geoff for a set embodying such fine craftsmanship.

Although Brian has featured on various compilation recordings to date, 'A Piper's Dream' is his first solo album.