We proudly celebrate our 2023-24 season under the musical leadership of Music Director Ryan Phillips. He was appointed director of the Arizona Repertory Singers in the fall of 2019 and continues our rich legacy of choral music in the Tucson area.

Early in his tenure with ARS, Ryan successfully navigated the ensemble through the incredible challenges created by the pandemic by learning video editing to create quality virtual choir performances that received excellent reviews in the Arizona Daily Star and on YouTube. Since then, the choir has grown in both membership and repertoire as they enjoy their exploration of newer choral works.

Ryan has been an integral part of the Tucson music scene for most of his career. From a young age, Ryan knew music was going to be a lifelong passion. From the age of 8 to 15 years old, he sang and toured with the Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus.

After receiving a bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of Arizona, Ryan taught choir and guitar at the Academy of Tucson High School for four years, alongside a church music director position at The Holy Way Presbyterian Church. He also served as assistant conductor for the Tucson Masterworks Chorale and Helios Ensemble, which affirmed his passion for working with adult choral ensembles.

Ryan continued his studies at Northern Arizona University, earning a Master of Music degree under the renowned choral director Dr. Edith Copley. During his time in Flagstaff, Ryan also directed the Harold M. Harter Memorial Handbell choir and Chamber Singers.

Upon his return to Tucson, Ryan continued teaching guitar at the Gregory School for three years and is currently in his second year as Director of Music at Desert Skies United Methodist Church. Ryan loves the Tucson area and the opportunities it provides. When he’s not rehearsing, he loves long walks with his wife Julia, his two older boys, Christian and Noah, and his infant twins, Aspen and Alder.