Born in Llangennech, a village situated approximately midway between the City of Swansea and the Town of Llanelli, he is now living in Burry Port. Before his retirement he was a headmaster by profession and had been teaching for over fifteen years in English schools where he gained valuable experience as a conductor of choirs and operatic societies.

Ryan came to the notice of Burry Port Male Choir in 1980 when he returned to live and work in our area. Members of the Burry Port Male Choir who were also members of the Burry Port Operatic Society immediately recognised his musical talent and when the position of Musical Director of the choir became vacant he accepted our invitation to take over as our conductor.

Ryan has arranged many of the songs sung by the choir – the music set to Psalm 121 was composed by him and part of the current repertoire was arranged by him. Many other choirs have benefitted by receiving copies of his arrangements.Ryan is also the Musical Director of the Burry Port Operatic Society, one of the very few Operatic Groups performing grand Opera in Wales. Over the last few years he has been in great demand as a conductor of Hymn singing festivals know in Wales as “Cymanfaoedd Canu” and requests for his services are increasing every year.

The members of the Burry Port Male Choir appreciate and acknowledge his commitment to the choir, Burry Port is very fortunate that the choral and operatic groups within the town are in the safe hands of a dedicated and talented musician.