Ryan Biller (He/Him) is a music educator, conductor, and passionate advocate for community-centered music education. Originally from Manistee, Michigan, Ryan graduated from Central Michigan University in 2024 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree, where he studied saxophone under Professor John Nichol.

Ryan currently serves as the Director of Bands for Manistee Area Public Schools, leading a rapidly growing program of more than 300 students. His teaching philosophy emphasizes inclusivity, student leadership, musical excellence, and the belief that every student deserves the opportunity to experience the lifelong benefits of music.

Since 2018, Ryan has served as the founder and Music Director of Manistee Community Music and conductor of the Manistee Community Band. Under his leadership, the organization has grown to include more than 120 musicians and singers, providing meaningful musical experiences that bring together performers of all ages while enriching the cultural life of the Manistee community.

Ryan is a dedicated advocate for the transformative power of music education. He is passionate about strengthening school music programs and fostering connections between educational and community ensembles to inspire the next generation of musicians. In 2023, he presented his session, Music Beyond the Classroom: Making Musical Communities, at the Michigan Music Conference, sharing his vision for creating sustainable, community-centered music programs. His work is guided by the belief that music has the power to unite communities, develop lifelong learners, and positively shape the lives of students.

Under Ryan's direction, his ensembles have consistently earned Superior ratings at both MSBOA District and State Band Festival. His ensembles have also performed at the Music for All Great Lakes Concert Band Festival at Eastern Michigan University and have been selected to present "Read It. Learn It. Rock It! Beginning Band Music Reading Session" at the 2027 Michigan Music Conference.

In addition to his work as a conductor and educator, Ryan is committed to expanding the wind band repertoire through the commissioning of new works. He has commissioned Fuse (2021) by Hannah Costa, Teal Fusion (2023) by Chris Evan Hass, and Snow Beast (2026) by Tyler Arcari. Ryan also serves on the visual staff of the Rockford High School Marching Band in Rockford, Michigan, where he has contributed for three seasons.

Ryan remains committed to creating meaningful musical experiences that inspire excellence, foster lifelong participation in music, and strengthen the communities he serves.

Contact Me

ryanbthatsme@gmail.com