Performance bio

Ryan Janus studied at Hope College in Holland, Michigan (B.Mus. in music performance and B.A. in Mathematics) and University of South Florida in Tampa (M.Mus. in Jazz Studies), both on academic scholarships. He was a two-time concerto competition winner at Hope, as well as receiving the Outstanding Artist award for all Fine Arts departments. While at USF, Mr. Janus performed regularly with the bands at DisneyWorld and Busch Gardens. He was then hired to teach saxophone, jazz studies and music theory at Hope College. Mr. Janus was also regular faculty member of the Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp and Aquinas College Jazz Camp. He has performed with many notables in the jazz and pop worlds, including Sammy Nestico, Barry Manilow, Manhattan Transfer, New York Voices, the Temptations, Ben E. King, Bob Newhart, Randy Brecker, Phil Woods and Kenny Wheeler. An accomplished doubler, he has played in the pit orchestras to over 30 shows, including several national touring companies. As a classical saxophonist, Mr. Janus has been featured in national and international saxophone conventions as a concerto soloist and with his brother, award-winning percussionist Matthew Janus. He has commissioned several new works, including a saxophone concerto by Pulitzer laureate Lewis Spratlan. Mr. Janus plays principal saxophone for the United States Air Force Academy Band, currently serving in the concert band and Falconaires Jazz Band, as well as playing piccolo in the marching band.

For a complete Curriculum Vita, which includes a more comprehensive list of performances and associations, click here.