Michael Ryan

Michael Ryan is a devoted guitarist who received his B.A. from the University of La Verne in music with an emphasis on classical guitar. Ryan furthered his studies at California State University, Chico where he received an M.A. in vocal performance. Serving as a Department Associate and Senior Adjunct Professor of Music at the University of La Verne, Michael teaches private guitar instruction, classical guitar, chamber music, and songwriting.

Michael’s compositions are influenced by a rich heritage of classical, flamenco, Latin, and Irish musical traditions. His unique musical landscapes draw from these sources, centered in the beautiful, expressive sound of the classical guitar. The romantic and passionate music performed by the classical guitarist evokes a wide range of moods.

Because of his gifted commitment to his art, Michael performs regularly throughout Europe and the United States. Every summer, Michael travels to Germany to perform at a medieval / renaissance festival. Locally, he performs five times a week at the Candlelight Pavilion Dinner Theater in Claremont, serving as the pre-show guitarist, while also performing every Thursday night at Walters Restaurant in the Claremont Village. 

Michael has produced a variety of concerts with an ensemble of musicians and dancers, often also performing himself. Some of these productions include Gypsy Passion, Spirit of Ireland, and Brazilian Nights. Additionally, Michael is a voting member of the Recording Academy (Grammy’s) and the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP).

Photography by Althea Sachs