World's Largest Sheet Music Selection

William Ryden Sheet Music

About William Ryden

William Ryden (1939-2018) was a highly prolific and versatile American composer, arranger, conductor, and editor whose work spanned a wide spectrum of musical genres. While his compositions encompassed orchestral, chamber, vocal, and choral music, he is particularly renowned for his significant contributions to ragtime, including over 500 original rags for piano. Ryden's extensive career also saw him deeply involved in music publishing and broadcasting, solidifying his impact on American music education and performance.

  • His "Concerto in Ragtime" for Piano and Orchestra was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize.
  • Ryden composed more than 500 original rags for piano, a testament to his dedication to the genre.
  • His work extended to popular media, including composing songs for Public Television's "Electric Company" and having his "Rejoice and Be Merry (A Ragtime Christmas Carol)" used as a Christmas theme for the CBS Radio Network.
  • For 35 years, William Ryden served as the editorial director for Bourne Co./International Music Company, demonstrating his influence beyond composition.

Performing William Ryden's music offers a rewarding experience for musicians of various skill levels, from students to seasoned professionals. His diverse catalog includes original compositions and arrangements for a broad array of instruments and ensembles, such as piano, full orchestra, concert band, string quartets, brass quintets, and vocal works. Instrumentalists will find his "For All" series particularly accessible for educational purposes, while more advanced performers can explore his challenging concertos and intricate ragtime pieces. Engaging with Ryden's music allows performers to connect with a rich blend of classical craftsmanship and the distinctive charm of American ragtime, offering both technical challenge and immense musical enjoyment.

Search all William Ryden