Bridget Ryan

My life in music ministry began with my first accompanist position at the age of twelve. For the last seven years, I served at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Addison where I provided piano accompaniment, served as interim choir director, sang as a cantor, and filled in any missing choral parts. I have also served as a substitute and wedding musician at Notre Dame de Chicago.

A native of central Illinois, I spent my formative years searching for something exciting in a world of corn and soy. After filling my schedule with activities ranging from marching band to varsity soccer, I eventually left my bucolic home and moved to the “big city” to pursue a degree in music at Elmhurst College. There, I majored in Music Business and minored in Spanish and Communication Studies with additional coursework in Theology and Church Music. While enrolled in private study for piano, voice, and organ, I also participated in several performing ensembles including Women’s Chorus, Concert Choir, and Chamber Singers.

As I embark on my new role here, I hope to bring joy to the community of St. Gianna, and I look forward to collaborating with the numerous, talented parishioners to find new ways of enhancing the liturgy through music.