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.
Barron was commissioned by Chamber Music Tulsa in 2021 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.
In 2023, Barron added ‘published author’ to his accolades when he published Honey, If It Wasn’t for You, an illustrated storybook about a song he co-wrote with a man who died six years before Barron was born.
Barron is following in his favorite composers’ footsteps by publishing his original works in the public domain. He offers his work as a gift to the world, and as a chance to collaborate with artists from around the globe.
His performance options include:
Classic Meets Cool (Solo) Is there a piano concert that can make audiences laugh, dance, and discover something new all at once? Enter Barron Ryan's Classic Meets Cool. This isn't your typical recital; it's a lively journey through classical, jazz, and pop, plus new compositions infused with country, soul, and funk. Concertgoers don't need to be classical music fans to fall in love with this show. Whether you're bringing kids, grandparents, or a musically skeptical friend, everyone will leave with a new appreciation for just how exciting a piano can be.
*NEW!* Classical with Attitude (Solo) Barron Ryan reimagines the classical piano recital with Classical with Attitude, weaving together jazz- and ragtime-influenced classical works, transcriptions from legendary jazz pianists, and original compositions spanning pop, funk, and country. The program balances elegance and edge, moving between the formality of the concert hall and the intimacy of a family living room. Whether you're a lifelong devotee or first-time concertgoer, this is a night that will leave you wanting more.
Songs for Lovers (Solo) Acclaimed pianist and composer Barron Ryan presents Songs for Lovers, an enchanting journey through the world's most beloved love songs. Drawing from the Great American Songbook, classical repertoire, and pop's greatest hits, the program blends Rodgers and Kern with sweeping classical beauty and unforgettable hooks. Whether you're celebrating years together or enjoying a first date, Barron Ryan's artistry will ensure that love is in the air.
The Most Wonderful Time (Solo) The holidays have a soundtrack, and pianist Barron Ryan is here to perform it! With his signature Classic Meets Cool style, Ryan transforms beloved carols and hidden gems alike through jazz sophistication, contemporary flair, and inventive arrangements that honor tradition while defying expectations. From timeless favorites to forgotten treasures, The Most Wonderful Time invites you to hear the season with fresh ears and leave humming long after the final note fades.
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.
There Arises Light in the Darkness (Trio) More than a century after the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, composer, pianist, and Tulsa native Barron Ryan offers a work and concert program of profound remembrance. Alongside the program titular composition, Ryan’s musical selections draw on musical traditions from around the world, illuminating the timeless human instinct to seek hope in the midst of sorrow and gathering the voices of many peoples into a concert of healing, hope, and light.
What’s next? You’ll have to wait to find out, but rest assured that in all Barron Ryan’s music, Classic Meets Cool.