URI PORTFOLIO | Ryan Cox

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URI GRADUATE PORTFOLIO

Why conducting?

And how imposter syndrome is very real

Introduction

I decided to apply to grad school for the experience. I've considered myself a fairly capable musician and teacher, but something in me knew that there was more to conducting than keeping the band together. I certainly didn't feel confident at the podium, and comparing myself to seasoned music directors in the area only let imposter syndrome grow.

Coming into my first class after a three-year break, that feeling still remained, but over the last three years I have found a renewed confidence and pride in my musicianship, thanks to the opportunities I've been able to take advantage of, and thanks to the musicians I have had the privilege of working with.

Coursework highlights

MUS 520

Graduate Musicology Seminar

Fall 2023

Theme: Music and word

Short analysis paper: "To Re-behold the stars": An analysis of Christopher Tin's "Sogno di Volare"

Thesis paper: "Command me to be well": An exploration of religious imagery in Hozier's music

MUS 591

Independent Study

Fall 2024

In conjunction with studio conducting lessons (MUS 510Z)

Project: John Mackey, Impressionist: A musical proof by induction

MUS 548

Graduate Research

Spring 2025

Project: The Small Band Problem: Exploring the challenges faced by directors of small or limited-instrumentation wind bands

MUS 517

Advanced Orchestration

Fall 2025

Final project - arrangement for full orchestra of an excerpt of Intermezzo in G minor, Op. 118, No. 2 (Johannes Brahms)

MUS 510Z

Applied instrumental conducting

Fall 2023–Spring 2026

Selected literature studied (* - performed)

Aaron Copland, Emblems
Percy Grainger, Lincolnshire Posy
Paul Hindemith, Symphony in B-flat
Gustav Holst, First Suite in E-flat *
Gustav Holst, Second Suite in F
John Mackey, Sheltering Sky *
Vincent Persichetti, Symphony No. 6
Robert Sheldon, A Longford Legend *
Ralph Vaughan Williams, English Folk Song Suite

Pit orchestra director, Little Women

Graduate recital program

Gustav Holst, First Suite in E-flat
Eric Whitacre, October
Clifton Williams, Caprice Americana
Cait Nishimura, Wilderness
Samuel Hazo, Southern Hymn
Gustav Holst, "Fantasia on the Dargason" from Second Suite in F

What's next?

Back to work

I got into this for the experience, and that remains the plan – right now, I'll be continuing to teach at The Prout School for the time being. I'm never one to put a timeline on things, but when it feels like it's time to go, then it will be.

However, I'm looking forward to new opportunities: I would love to explore more work as clinician and conductor, potentially getting in front of some honor bands and community ensembles. I keep saying that I would like to get some of my arrangements published as well, especially the ones I'm most proud of. I'll finally have some time to rebuild my private studio as well. (I don't like to stay idle for long.)

I've always had a little bit of "I want to do everything" in me, and this program has given me the tools and the network to see that come to fruition.

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