Ryan joined the Band back in 2015, whilst in his final year studying BMUS Creative Music Technology. Since graduating, he has worked as a performing arts technician in two high schools in Greater Manchester. Since the recent birth of his first child Freddie, Ryan and his wife Lauren have decided to move back to Northern Ireland where they will be closer to their family. Ryan’s already started his new job as Marketing Assistant at Galgorm Resort and has transferred to The Band, Bugles, Pipes and Drums of The Royal Irish Regiment who are based in Belfast. Our loss is their gain!

Before Ryan left us, he spent some time reflecting on his experiences with the Band:

‘My favourite thing about my time in the #royalyorksband is how friendly everyone is, like one big family. We all have different backgrounds and experiences and we get to share this with each other through going away on jobs and socials together, which are always great craic. I’ve also really enjoyed working on more challenging pieces for concerts, as well as marching band practice for displays and parades – as tough as they are to get right, they are really fun to do in the end.

My favourite jobs over the years have been De 4Daagse (Nijmegen Marches), Loreley Tattoo, helping out the The Band and Corps of Drums of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment for ceremony of the keys and the Independence Festival in Gibraltar, D Day events in Normandy and supporting the band to produce virtual remembrance videos during COVID, which was a great opportunity and privilege. I was also really lucky to learn to ski through adventure training opportunities and attended a battlefield tour, which helped me understand the history behind the Somme. As part of this, I was honoured to play the last post at #MeninGate.

To anyone thinking of joining, absolutely do it – it was the best decision I’ve ever made and I only wish I’d known about it sooner. You’ll meet great people who welcome you in and help you understand the role and the army side of things, as well as having the opportunity to travel internationally and perform with musicians from around the world.’

The regiemntal family wishes Ryan and his family all the best for their future in Northern Ireland.