Bio:

Thanks for taking the time to check out ryan-michael.com.  My full name is Ryan Michael Ochsner.  I am 20 years old, and I currently live in Nashville, TN.  Orignally from Greeley, Colorado, I grew up listening to country music and began playing music at a very early age.  I experimented around with various instruments early on including piano and saxophone.  It was at the age of 12 when I was given a Fender Squier Strat from my dad.  I fell in love with the guitar, and I wanted to learn every song on the radio. 

I started playing music in my church, Greeley Wesleyan Church.  It started with music the youth program, and eventually I moved up to playing for the adult congregation.  It wasn't my favorite genre of music, however, it exposed me to performing live on a weekly basis, and it allowed me to grow in ways I hadn't imagined.  I still tried to develop country chops on the side.  At this time I also began studying more theory and guitar fundamentals with a professor at the local University.  This is where I was introduced to the jazz number system and more complex voicings of chords as well.

In the Summer of 2004 I packed my bags and headed out to Nashville, TN.  I came here to attend Belmont University for a Degree in Music Business, and primarily to play guitar.  When I arrived in town, I was able to meet a few great players and make some great friendships as well.  One of them was James "Rooster" Olson.  He showed me a lot and helped me develope my country chops a lot.  He also convinced me into having him make me one of his Trailer Trash Pedalboards. 

In the Spring of 2005 I landed my first Nashville gig.  It wasn't anything special, but it took me to The Stage on Broadway.  A few months after that, I got a call from a new country artist in town: Paul Scott.  I toured with him throughout the Summer.  We covered venues in Georgia, Michigan, Missouri, Ohio, and we also played as a house band at the Wildhorse Saloon here in Nashville. 

At the end of September '05, I began playing guitar for Sony/BMG recording group, Lonestar.  Thus far, it has been the experience of a lifetime.  I must say, I am very blessed to be able to do what I do.  I thank the Lord everyday for everything he has done.  I know I wouldn't be where I am at without him.  He's opened many doors for me, and guided me to where I was supposed to be.

Come check us out in concert if you get a chance!  The show is great, and we have a blast doing it.  And if you read all the way down to this point, thanks again! 

God Bless,

Ryan Ochsner

Contact: ryan@ryan-michael.com