Stephen Ryan
Music Educator and Performer
Music Educator and Performer
Stephen Ryan is the director of the 8th Grade Band and Jazz Ensemble at LaGrange Middle School, where he has been inspiring young musicians for the past five years. Under his leadership, the LMS Bands have consistently achieved top “Superior” ratings at Music in the Parks and Trills and Thrills competition festivals, demonstrating both musical excellence and a commitment to growth. Dedicated to expanding the repertoire for developing musicians, Stephen actively seeks out works by young and underrepresented composers, ensuring his students engage with diverse musical perspectives. By fostering an inclusive and dynamic learning environment, he encourages students to explore new sounds, styles, and artistic voices.
Throughout his studies, he honed his craft under the guidance of esteemed mentors, including Dr. Keith Kaiser (Ithaca College), Dr. Eric Laprade (The College of New Jersey), Dr. Rebecca Phillips (Colorado State University), and Wes Kenney (Fort Collins Symphony Orchestra, Denver Young Artists Orchestra). Their mentorship has shaped his approach to conducting, blending technical precision with musical expressivity to inspire both students and ensembles.
Stephen holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Ithaca College and a Master of Music Education in Conducting from Colorado State University.
LaGrange Middle School Band Accolades under Stephen Ryan's Direction
2025 Trills and Thrills Evaluation - Queensbury, NY
8th Grade Band: Composite Score of 97 - Superior Rating - Jr. High Division (Grade 3)
2024 Trills and Thrills Evaluation - Queensbury, NY
8th Grade Band: Composite Score of 96 - Superior Rating - Jr. High Division (Grade 3)
2023 Trills and Thrills Evaluation - Queensbury, NY
8th Grade Band: Composite Score of 100 - Superior Rating - Jr. High Division (Grade 3)
2022 Trills and Thrills Evaluation - Bristol, CT
7th Grade Band: Composite Score of 95 - Superior Rating - Middle School Division (Grade 3)
8th Grade Band: Composite Score of 97 - Superior Rating - Jr. High Division (Grade 3)
Beyond the classroom, Stephen is an active trumpet performer and dedicated educator. He studied under Frank Gabriel Campos and Chris Coletti at Ithaca College, developing a strong foundation in both classical, jazz, and contemporary trumpet performance. His playing has taken him to prestigious venues such as Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall, showcasing his artistry on renowned stages.
In addition to his work in schools, Stephen maintains a thriving private trumpet studio, mentoring students across the Hudson Valley. His students have gone on to earn placements in esteemed music programs at Ithaca College, the Crane School of Music, the University of Delaware, the University of Massachusetts Amherst, SUNY Purchase, and the Hartt School of Music. An avid performer, he remains an integral part of the local music scene, regularly performing with bands, orchestras, and jazz ensembles throughout the region.
LMS 8th Grade Band
2025 Pops Concert
LMS Jazz Band
2024 Arlington District Jazz Festival
LMS 8th Grade Band
2023 Pops Concert