Ryan Van Gilder, DMA

Dr. Ryan Van Gilder is Senior Lecturer - Trombone and Jazz Studies at Colorado State University Pueblo. His duties include teaching applied trombone lessons, running the jazz studies program which includes directing Jazz Ensemble I, and teaching various music courses. An active trombonist, Ryan performs regularly throughout Colorado as principal trombone of the Pikes Peak Brass Band and Academy Jazz Ensemble. He is also a member of the Fountain City Brass Band winning 1st place in the Championship division at the North American Brass Band Association contest in 2025.

As an educator, Ryan has worked with schools and honor bands throughout the state of Colorado, including directing the Colorado All-State Jazz Band. His students have been selected to the All-State bands and orchestras as well as local honor bands and jazz festivals, including students who have gone on to pursue music careers as well as music degrees at the collegiate level. Ryan is originally from Iowa and attended the University of Iowa for his bachelor's degree. He also holds master's and doctorate degrees from the University of Colorado. Ryan lives in Pueblo with his partner Helen, their dogs Melba and Gumbo, and their bearded dragon Wedge. When not playing trombone, Ryan enjoys watching football (soccer), playing video games, bicycling, and enjoying the mountains of Colorado.