Barron Ryan
“It was the emotive quality of his playing . . . that made for a captivating ride that not only entertained, but also connected and communicated with the audience in a singular fulfilling way.”
— Gary Payne, Director, Kensington Concert Series, San Diego, CA
Barron Ryan’s love for music has always been divided. The son of two musicians, he grew up in a house filled with the sounds of artists ranging from Mozart to Michael Jackson. So, when it comes to his own performing, he’s not content drawing on just one influence. He combines them all into a musical adventure that’s vintage yet fresh, historical yet hip, classic yet cool.
After beginning piano lessons at age four with his father, Barron seemed destined for a career in music. Everything did not come up roses, however, as Barron was then rejected from all the music conservatories you might be impressed by. Thanks to winning a competition that resulted in a concert tour of Israel, Barron found his artistic voice. He discovered the joy of jazz- and ragtime-inspired concert music that formed the basis of his debut album, Classical with Attitude. He learned from great jazz pianists by replaying their solos on his second album, The Masters’ Apprentice.
In 2019, Barron noticed a shocking lack of funk-, pop-, and country-inspired classical music. Realizing he could fill that void, he composed the “Magic City” Sonata and a dance suite called “Suite Thing.” Those works are now published and recorded on his third solo record, First of Its Kind.
In 2021, Barron was commissioned by Chamber Music Tulsa to produce a work commemorate the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. He wrote a piece for piano trio entitled “My Soul Is Full of Troubles” and was named one of “Ten Innovators To Watch” by Smithsonian Magazine.
Barren offers virtual, online/interactive and live residency activities. Performance options include:
First Of Its Kind (No Rights Reserved) Barron recently released an album of original compositions, First of Its Kind, featuring a dance suite called Suite Thing and his Sonata in B flat major. Both include four movements, with musical influences ranging from a country waltz, to ‘80s pop and Trinidadian calypso. Music is published in the public domain, allowing their unlimited use without royalties.
Classic Meets Cool Barron’s signature recital program features some of the greatest piano music ever made, including groovy classical works, renditions from great jazz pianists, pop tune arrangements, and an original sonata. Barron will weave a story with his music and words that's sure to leave your audience speechless.
An American in Paris with this show-stopping concert. Symphony will perform jazz-influenced works by American composers…plus one Ukrainian. Selections range from William Bolcom’s Ragomania to George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue, concertgoers are sure to discover new favorites and relish old favorites.
NEW! The Most Wonderful Time, an inventive and varied holiday program of fresh arrangements of Christmas songs spanning centuries of tradition, from medieval chant to American pop. Discover new favorites and enjoy your familiar favorites in a new way.
What’s next? You’ll have to wait to find out, but rest assured that in all Barron Ryan’s music, Classic Meets Cool.