For higher education, Ryan attended the University of North Carolina at Wilmington[3] and Berklee College of Music.
In addition, Ryan has performed soundtracks and recordings for internationally released major motion pictures[4] and documentaries.
Ryan released his first album, "Doc's Blues" on April 28, 2008[5] with the help of keyboardist Joseph Wooten, "The Voice" drummer Nate Morton, and Brazilian musicians Raphael Du Valle (bass) and Ronaldo Pizzi (keyboards).
On this recording, Ryan is joined by local Charlotte musicians Marcus Jones, Michael D'Angelo, and Troy Conn, Korean pianist Jamie Song, and special guests Manuel Valera from Vital Information as well as organist Harry Waters.
Ryan plays Légère Reeds,[8] P. Mauriat Saxophones,[9] Theo Wanne Classic Mouthpieces,[10] Latin Percussion,[11] Fodera Guitars, EBS Bass Amplification, Godin and Seagull Guitars, BG Franck Bichon Accessories, Neotech Straps, Key Leaves,[12] NBO, and Mono Cases[13]