OUR TEACHERS

IVAN GYGI BIO

When his father took an expatriate assignment in the Fiji Islands in 2005, Ivan moved overseas with his family. They couldn't take their piano with them so he picked up the guitar instead. Since returning to the US, Ivan has worked hard to develop his own unique voice as an artist. Ivan is rooted in blues, rock, classical, and finger-style genres but has become primarily known as a jazz guitarist. Ivan was selected for the Utah All-State Jazz Ensemble as a high school freshman. He played and recorded with other bands through high school including national DOWNBEAT magazine award-winning ska band LoFi Riot, and the Crescent Super Band. Ivan graduated from Utah State University in 2019 with a degree in guitar performance where he was selected for the top big band and jazz combo since his freshman year. He finished a Master’s Degree at the University of North Texas in 2021 where he worked teaching classes and private lessons as a TA. Ivan has performed with many renowned jazz musicians -- including Grammy Award-winning saxophonist Jeff Coffin, trombonist Waycliff Gordon, saxophonist David Sanborn, percussionist Pancho Sanchez, and others. While still an active performing artist, Ivan's passion is teaching and helping others achieve their musical dreams. After a short stint in Los Angeles, Ivan relocated to Grand Junction, Colorado to grow his teaching studio. He additionally teaches at Colorado Mesa University and Juniper Ridge Community School.

RYAN DELANEY BIO

Ryan, a Montana native, has been playing guitar since age 10. He spent years immersing himself in rock and blues before transitioning to classical guitar, studying under numerous accomplished teachers. During his undergraduate studies, he explored the history of world music and jazz while also taking courses in composition. After graduating, Ryan dedicated himself to education, teaching students of all ages and backgrounds across California, Alaska, and Montana. Now he's bringing together his teaching experience and musical passion in his work as a guitar instructor. Today, Ryan performs with several local groups, playing everything from pop covers and old folk tunes to the occasional jazz standard.