Barron Ryan on the Intersection of Music and Storytelling

Here's What We Know

This week on Here's What We Know, join us as we sit down once again with the multi-talented pianist, composer, and author Barron Ryan. From discussing his early beginnings on the piano to exploring the intricacies of practice and performance, let’s discover insights into what makes music such a powerful form of expression. He also reveals the inspiring yet tragic story of his book, “Honey, If It Wasn’t For You.”

In This Episode:

• Discover how Barron's musical journey began at age 4 under his father's tutelage.
• Learn about Barron’s approach to practicing, including tackling new pieces and managing extensive rehearsal hours.
• Hear about the challenges that come with being a professional musician, including dealing with injuries like tenosynovitis.
• Delve into technical aspects of playing piano - from separating hands during practice to maintaining stamina during long sessions without injury.
• Uncover why musicians perform and how they connect with their audience through beauty and love expressed in art.
• Gain insight into how he articulates his purpose as an artist – "to discover and present the beauty I'm uniquely positioned for."
• Discover the beautiful story behind his book “Honey, If It Wasn’t For You.”

This episode is sponsored by:
Reed Animal Hospital
Dermawav
Bio:
Barron Ryan, the son of two musicians, grew up surrounded by diverse musical influences, from Mozart to Motown. Starting piano at age four under his father's guidance, he excelled in music throughout his education. Though he faced setbacks, including rejection from prestigious music conservatories, a chance win in a piano competition reignited his passion.

Barron has since developed a unique style that blends jazz, classical, and popular music, resulting in albums like Classical with Attitude and The Masters’ Apprentice. In 2019, he composed original works like the “Magic City” Sonata, adding funk, pop, and country flavors to classical music.

In 2021, he was commissioned to compose a piece commemorating the Tulsa Massacre, earning recognition from Smithsonian Magazine as one of Ten Innovators to Watch. Now a published author and composer, Barron continues to push musical boundaries, ensuring that in all his work, Classic Meets Cool.
Website: https://www.barronryan.com/
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