Ryan finds supporting students preparing for post-secondary auditions particularly rewarding and recognizes the importance of this time as young instrumentalists learn how to practice effectively, develop a positive mindset, learn to self-regulate, manage performance anxiety and develop resiliency – all aided by leveraging the principles that the Oxygen Advantage teaches.
Becoming a Functional Breathing Instructor was the perfect complement to Ryan’s holistic approach to learning and teaching. Patrick McKeown’s books were essential to his Master’s research and continue to be an important reference for well-studied and cited knowledge as he pursues his Doctorate in the field of Medical Ethnomusicology.
Ryan works with his clients and students to identify dysfunctional breathing patterns and helps to adjust them through education and integrative practice. Learning how the body breathes empowers us to optimize our physiology. Whether preparing for a 5k run/walk, increasing stamina on the soccer pitch, auditioning on flute (or clarinet, or saxophone) for placement in a music program, recovering from injury, or taking the stage at a music festival – Ryan applies the Oxygen Advantage to client’s specific goals, virtually or in person.
Recently completing the Performing Arts Medicine Association’s Essentials of Performing Arts Medicine course as an ‘Arts Educator’ to complement his Functional Breathing Certification, Ryan is excitedly incorporating his research findings with his twenty-five-plus years of teaching and performance. Additionally, he has earned a green belt in Karate, is a soccer coach and Match Official, teaches saxophone and woodwind instruments, and delivers tutorials at York. He resides in the Greater Toronto Area with his wife and two teenage children.