Ryan Main

Ryan Main (b. 1984) is an award-winning composer, director, and clinician whose music for choirs and bands is performed at all levels worldwide. His compositions have been performed across the globe and extensively throughout the United States, frequently showcased at prestigious events such as national and regional American Choral Directors Association Conferences, festivals, Carnegie Hall, and other distinguished venues.

Born in the Kansas City, Missouri area, Ryan began his post-secondary music education at the Conservatory of Music and Dance at the University of Missouri–Kansas City, earning a Bachelor of Music in Music Composition. He continued his studies at the Peabody Institute at Johns Hopkins University, completing dual Master of Music degrees in Music Composition and Music Education. His mentors included Kevin Puts, Michael Hersch, and Chen Yi.

With dozens of titles published for numerous voicings for choir, Ryan maintains a robust schedule of commissions. His works have received numerous accolades, including multiple Editor's Choice distinctions from J.W. Pepper and 5-star feature distinctions from Stanton's, two of the largest international sheet music retailers. His compositions are regularly highlighted at professional state, national, and international choral conferences.

Ryan's writing spans a dynamic range of styles, often pushing the boundaries of the art form by delving into its darker, uncharted corners. His work draws inspiration from timeless poetry, contemporary themes, and the depth of the human experience.

Ryan is a sought-after honor choir director, clinician, and presenter, frequently sharing his expertise on leadership strategies, choral classroom engagement, composition processes, and choral literature. He travels extensively for composer residencies and has been featured on podcasts such as Choralosophy, Music (Ed) Matters, Choir Director Corner, Choir Ninja, and Choral Catalogue.

Passionate about ensuring access to quality music education for all, Ryan founded the Youth Chorus of Kansas City, a non-profit organization serving youth from diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds throughout the Kansas City metro area. As artistic director, he leads the organization in providing meaningful musical opportunities to students who might not otherwise have access to them.

Beyond his work with young singers, Ryan is dedicated to fostering the next generation of composers. He mentors aspiring creators across the United States and serves as Professor of Choral Arranging at the University of Missouri–Kansas City's Conservatory of Music and Dance, where his students have gone on to successful careers in composing and arranging. He also founded Endeavor Music Publishing, a publishing company that ensures composers are true partners in the success of their work.

Ryan is a member of the American Choral Directors Association, the Missouri Choral Directors Association, the National Association for Music Education, and the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers. He previously served on the National Association for Music Education's Council on Music Composition.