Ryan Garbett

Ryan Garbett was born and raised in Toronto and began his study of music on the piano at age 5. He learned the horn in his elementary school band class five years later and never looked back! He was appointed Third Horn of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra in March of 2023.

A student of Gabriel Radford, John Zirbel, and Jessie Brooks, Ryan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Horn Performance from McGill University, and an Artist Diploma from the Glenn Gould School, where he was awarded full tuition through the Michael and Sonja Koerner Scholarship. During his studies, Ryan performed in masterclasses for many world-renowned hornists including James Sommerville, Gail Williams, James Thatcher, and Martin Hackleman.

Mr. Garbett has performed nationwide on some of Canada’s most revered stages and has collaborated professionally with many high calibre ensembles including the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, the Canadian Opera Company, L’Orchestre Classique de Montréal, the Kingston Symphony Orchestra, and the Amici Chamber ensemble. He is a three-time alumnus of the National Youth Orchestra of Canada (’14, ’15, ’19) and was a recipient of their Award of Excellence in 2019. Other training programs in which he participated include the National Academy Orchestra, the Toronto Symphony Youth Orchestra, and the Hannaford Youth Band.

Ryan’s musical interests are not limited to the realm of classical horn playing; from 2018-2023, he was a member of 10-piece funk outfit, the Jackson Steinwall Band, and his playing can be heard throughout their debut EP “I’ll Be Fine”, including a solo feature on “Good Gravy”. Ryan is also an accomplished vocalist and has performed with many Ontario choirs including RESOUND Choir (as Bass Lead), the Exultate Chamber Singers, and The Amadeus Choir of Greater Toronto, as well as Edmonton’s Chronos Vocal Ensemble.

Teaching Quote/Philosophy: 
 

The primary goal in my studio is to foster Curiosity, Passion, Confidence, and Discipline in my students. I have extensive experience in a wide variety of musical styles, and I bring all of that expertise to the table to help my students achieve their goals. Together we'll work to develop musicianship, technique, practice strategies, and the performing mindset, while making sure that above all, we're putting FUN first!   

 

Lesson Description: 

I offer lessons to players of all levels, beginner to professional, ages 6 and up. I specialize in Classical French Horn performance, but can offer instruction in Pop, Rock, Jazz, Funk, Folk, or improvisational styles. I want to help you find YOUR musical passion no matter what the genre!  
 
I am happy to teach at the Winspear or at my home studio in the Highlands neighbourhood. 

 

Education and Certification:

Bachelor of Music in Horn Performance, McGill University, 2015-17 
Bachelor of Music in Horn Performance, University of Toronto, 2013-15 
Artist Diploma in Horn Performance, The Glenn Gould School, 2018-20 

 

Professional Associations and Memberships:

Edmonton Symphony Orchestra 
  

Testimonial:

"Ryan was an excellent teacher for my son. He helped him with specific playing and technical problems and gave him useful strategies to improve. Ryan was always very friendly, punctual, and professional, as well as relatable. I definitely recommend him for any student interested in improving their French horn skills." 
 
-Parent of student