October 2025 - Ryan Metsker
Ryan Metsker
Recognizing his exceptional musicianship and promising future in trumpet performance, this issue features sixteen-year-old Ryan Metsker of Cincinnati, Ohio, as an ITG 2025 Young Artist Award recipient.
A junior at Milford High School in the 2025 – 2026 school year, Ryan has been playing trumpet for five years. His musical journey began in sixth grade, inspired by his older sisters’ involvement in band. Though percussion was a consideration, it was the trumpet—recommended as a starting instrument—that ultimately captured his imagination. “I realized I really enjoyed the trumpet a lot,” Metsker said. “It offered more of a challenge, something different from piano or singing.”
Ryan’s first exposure to trumpet fundamentals came through a family connection: his sister’s boyfriend, who taught Ryan some of the basics. It was in seventh grade, though, that he met Stephen Wadsack, who became his first formal trumpet teacher. Currently, he studies with Chris Kiradjieff, third/utility trumpet of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, with whom Ryan continues to excel.
Over the past year, Ryan’s dedication has translated into significant achievements. He earned the Outstanding Symphonic Band Member Award at Milford High School, highlighting his contributions to the school’s band program. As a ninth grader, he entered the Wright State University Solo Competition, where he gave an impressive performance of the first movement of Hummel’s Trumpet Concerto and placed runner-up in a competitive pool of high school applicants from throughout Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana.
Ryan is also active in the Cincinnati Youth Symphony, where he advanced from alternate placement as a freshman to a place in the second-highest orchestra for his second year. He recently performed side-by-side with members of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, gaining valuable experience and mentorship from these professionals.
This summer (2025), Ryan took part in the CSO Brass Institute, further expanding his performance opportunities and musical training. He has also been a three-year participant in the OMEA District Honor Band and has used his talents in service, playing Taps at Memorial Day ceremonies and at local elementary schools.
While Ryan is committed to growing as a musician, he also has broader academic and career ambitions. He plans to pursue an engineering degree in college while also remaining active in music through collegiate ensembles and community performance opportunities. “Trumpet will always be part of my life,” he said.
When asked about his trumpet heroes, Ryan cites virtuoso Alan Vizzutti and his band director, Dr. Tim Dailey, whose practice sessions he often hears and draws inspiration from.
Outside of his musical achievements, Ryan is an uncommonly bright, caring, and high-achieving individual. He frequently volunteers his time at church and other extracurricular activities; for the past two years, he has competed in the World Robotics Team Competition as a representative of his high school’s VEX Robotics Club. Additionally, he takes piano lessons (now in his ninth year), plays ultimate frisbee, and has earned the rank of First Class in Boy Scouts. As the 2025 October ITG Young Artist Award winner, Ryan will receive a one-year complimentary ITG membership. Congratulations, Ryan!