Biography

Ryan Youens completed his Masters degree in composition early in 2007 at the New Zealand School of Music in Wellington, working with Jack Body, Michael Norris and John Psathas. Ryan began his study at Auckland University in 2001 before moving to Otago University, where he studied with Anthony Ritchie and graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree with first class honours in 2005. While at Otago University Ryan received the J W M Speirs Memorial Prize in Choral Conducting and the Charles Begg Prize for overall excellence.

Ryan’s work has been performed by the Gruppetto Quartet (Greece), Auckland Symphony Orchestra, Southern Sinfonia, Marama Chamber Orchestra, Dunedin Youth Orchestra, Southern Consort of Singers, The Committee and at the 2007 Asian Composers League Festival in Wellington. Ryan has been a part of the NZSO/TODD Young Composer Awards on three occasions and his piece Rakaia was a part of the 2008 NZSO/SOUNZ Readings. In 2006 Ryan was commissioned to write a new work for the Opononi Summer School, a week long summer school for wind orchestra players from intermediate school age through to seniors. Ryan conducted the premiere early in 2007. Ryan has also attended the Nelson Composers workshop on several occasions.

Ryan now lives back in Auckland, his hometown, and is primarily a music copyist and engraver, but also teaches music, conducts several orchestras and is frequently arranging and orchestrating music which has been performed in New Zealand, Europe, North and South America.


“I never thought our collaboration would be so accurate, quick and magnificent. Ryan is a very talented musician, he understands exactly what I like in my music.”
Alexandros Pappas. Composer, Greece.

“I have enjoyed every split second working and learning from Ryan … his demeanor and remarkable knowledge in music has made the overall learning experience for me absolutely priceless.”
Vladimir Krasojevic. Composer, New Zealand.

“This was an extraordinary feat and I was very happy with his perfectionist approach and professional work ethics. Bloody legend! Thanks Ryan, you saved me a bucket load of stress!”
Claire Cowan, Composer. Auckland, New Zealand.

• Works (9)
• Awards (2)