Ryan’s brand of jazz is modern and original while paying tribute to the history of swing, bebop, hard-bop and the avant-garde. The Ryan Meisel QuArtet is his standard ensemble while performing for special engagements as a trio, duo and solo configurations. The QuArtet delivers thought-provoking, dynamic, and spirited shows. Captivating audiences, Meisel expresses the story of his lifelong musical journey through song. Ryan’s brand of fiery saxophone playing pushes the group's improvisational limits. Meisel's compositions embody the authentic sounds of Swing, Hard Bop, and Contemporary Jazz. Ryan Meisel ensembles are made up of Milwaukee and Madison’s top jazz musicians. Guitarist Chris Newlin, bassists David Dinauer and Isaiah Simmons, and drummers Jake Polancich and Paul Westfahl from Milwaukee; Bassist Matt Rodgers, guitarist Doug Brown and Vocalist Susan Hofer from Madison. Meisel often features themed shows with his groups. The Ryan Meisel QuArtet Featuring Susan Hofer, A New Orleans Mardi Gras, Spiritual Side of John Coltrane, and Daddy Meis Plays the Blues are frequently performed throughout the year while the Holiday Jazz Show is always a highlight at the end of the year. Featuring Susan Hofer: Susan Hofer is a vocalist from Madison WI and is the band’s most featured collaborator. Regardless of the ensemble (backed by the QuArtet or smaller ensemble) Ryan and Susan are creative improvisers. Their mediums are the great American songbooks of Cole Porter, Billy Strayhorn and Duke Ellington, originals, and spontaneous improvisations. They delve into their musical tool-kits shaping their sound with Susan’s instrument-like vocal style and Ryan’s brand of fiery saxophone.
