Ryan Guitars
I first met Kevin Ryan in Sante Fe, New Mexico about ten years ago. We had a mutual friend in Lou Bruno, owner of a design and marketing firm who has, on several occasions, brought me to Sante Fe for concerts. (Lou designed the cover for my Romantics & Mystics album.)
Although Kevin was in the early stages of his career as a luthier (guitar builder) he was already turning heads in the guitar world. Kevin was a devotee of James Olsen Guitars and was soon building instruments to rival Olsen’s legendary guitars.
So my buddy Lou flew Kevin from California to see one of my concerts. Afterward several of us went out for drinks and Kevin and I got a chance to get to know one another. We talked a lot about guitars of course, but Kevin is also keenly interested in theology, an admirer of G.K. Chesterton (whom I fancy somewhat myself), and a lover of good cigars and wine. It was immediately evident we would be friends and that has proven itself over time. Kevin, his wife Barb and son James are about a lovable as lovable gets. I’ve since spent several wonderful summer evenings under the lemon tree in their back yard in Huntington Beach and it was there that I first met Bob Bennett.
Six month or so after our first meeting I was the proud owner of a Ryan Mission Grand Concert acoustic guitar. And this one has been my main guitar both in concert and in studio since, as should be evident by the scars and wear.
My guitar has a western cedar top and rosewood sides and back. It has a fast, low profile neck, and Kevin’s trademark arched back. The neck itself is slightly wider than standard - just a bit more room for the fingers to do their work, and the scale (nut to saddle ) is slightly longer than standard in order to retain string tension in the lower tunings.
It is hard to say why I love this instrument as much as I do. There are so many great guitars out there. But this one just feels like home to me. Sonically, it is rich and warm with plenty of highs and no boomy bottom. It is great for finger style and yet responds wonderfully to a pick and hard strumming. In the studio it is a dream to record as it produces no unpleasant overtones for which to compensate. Basically, stick a mic in front and it sounds great.
Kevin’s guitars are very expensive and there is a long waiting list to get one. If you are looking to make that once-in-a-lifetime purchase of a magnificent instrument, check out www.ryanguitars.com .
Posted on December 3rd
Hi Steve. I’ve been listening to some of your music this morning and it’s such a blessing.
I play guitar and own a Ryan Mission like yours. I’ve always thought of it as more of a fingerstyle guitar but see and hear that you use it for all styles with great results. Can you tell me what gauge strings you use on yours?
Thanks!
Gordon