Our people!
Long before the first note is played each Thursday night, a dedicated team is hard at work behind the scenes bringing the Snapz experience to life. Meet the people who keep the music playing, the show running smoothly, and the stage ready for every artist who steps into the spotlight.
Learn more about us below!
Born and raised in Washington, D.C., Ryan began playing piano at the age of four and later attended the prestigious Duke Ellington School of the Arts. His career has taken him from performances at the Kennedy Center and touring with R&B artist Tony Terry to producing music in New York City alongside artists including 50 Cent, Mobb Deep, Doug E. Fresh, and Nipsey Hussle. Since making Minnesota home, Ryan has become a sought-after musician and music director. He has led bands and productions for concerts, festivals, television, churches, corporate events, and community celebrations while earning two Regional Emmy Awards for his production work on Here's The Truth with Georgia Fort. Today he regularly performs with the Alex Rossi Band and tours with Élan Artists' Northstar Band, while also serving as Music Director at Community Covenant Church.
Ryan founded Snapz The Experience with a vision of creating more than an open mic – a place where emerging artists and seasoned professionals alike can perform with a professional live band, be seen, build meaningful relationships, receive mentorship, collaborate across genres, and strengthen the metro area’s vibrant creative community. What began as a simple idea has grown into one of the Twin Cities' favorite weekly live music experiences, bringing together artists and audiences from across the region.
Whether on stage, behind the keyboard, or mentoring the next generation of performers, Ryan believes music has the power to uplift, inspire, connect, and transform lives.
Ethan Ostrow – House Pianist / Keys
Marcus Woodard – House Pianist / Keys
Sean “Smitty” Smith – House Drummer
Brandon Johnson – House Drummer
Derrick Holleman – House Guitarist
Christian Walah – House Bassist
Shane Cox – House Trumpet / Trombone
Zach Miller – House Sax
DJ Mickey Breeze — DJ
