Ryan Messling – Past Concerts

Ryan Messling has been playing bass for 16 years and started playing bass in fifth grade at Chester Elementary School. Ryan played bass all throughout Middle School and High School and performed in many ensembles including the Concert Choir, Jazz Choir, Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, and Jazz Band. As an active member of the Spokane Local 105 musicians union, Ryan performed in many theatres in the Spokane area including the Lakecity Playhouse and Christian Youth Theatre. After high school he attended the Lionel Hampton School of Music at the University of Idaho and got his undergraduate degree in Instrumental Music Education.

Since his undergrad Ryan has taught in both Vancouver Public Schools and Battle Ground Public Schools. Ryan student taught with Danielle Armstrong and Greg McKelvey in Battle Ground Public Schools. He is currently the band director at Prairie High School and has been since 2016. Jazz has always been one of Ryan's passion from a young age and how has the opportunity to direct his High School jazz band which has received high accolades. He is very excited to be in the Vanport Jazz Band and looks forward to giggin with the band in the future!