Raised in Central California, Bret studied with Terry Mills from the University of the Pacific. He went on to receive his Bachelors of Music from the University of Texas at Austin while under the instruction of Adam Holzman.

After receiving numerous accolades, he continued his studies in New York City at the Mannes School.

There he worked with Fred Hand, Michael Newman, and Terry Chaplain.

Soon after receiving his Masters Degree, he formed La Vita Williams Guitar Duo with Giacomo La Vita. He went on to record an album featuring various compositions for solo guitar and another featuring works he wrote for quartet (clarinet, violin, guitar, bass). His most recent release is Three Compositions.

Following a robust concert schedule and multiple recordings, he was diagnosed with focal dystonia, restricting movement in the right hand, in 2012. He continues to work with professionals and colleagues on the issue, and since has developed a new style of playing and composition for the instrument.