Jazz Gallery Center For The Arts
Press Release

They’re Back: The J Ryan Trio Returns to The Jazz Gallery on December 13

 

By - Dec 3rd, 2025 02:36 am
J Ryan Trio at the Jazz Gallery. Photo provided

J Ryan Trio at the Jazz Gallery. Photo provided

The last time they played at the Jazz Gallery Center for the Arts (JGCA), the J Ryan Trio drew a standing-room-only crowd. More of the same is expected when one of Milwaukee’s most popular groups returns for a 7 to 10 pm show (doors open at 6:30 pm) at the JGCA on Saturday, December 13.

The J Ryan Trio cooks up high-energy, old-school jazz, blues, gospel, funk, and soul with heaping helpings of good laughs, fun, and fellowship. Songs from Chick Corea, Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder, and everything in between are on the menu, joined by a common trait: they’re all great songs!

The J Ryan Trio (which, of course, isn’t really a trio) is made up of seasoned veterans of the Milwaukee music scene. Electric bassist Mike McOlish, for example, has demonstrated versatile virtuosity during a career that spans three decades and 6 strings. Drummer Dave Ruetz possesses a mastery of varied styles sharpened during a 50-year tenure behind the kit and by his time studying with such giants of rhythm as Steve Smith (Journey), Horacio Hernandez (Santana), Keith Carlock (Steely Dan), and Dave Weckl (Chick Corea Electric Band).

Bob Berlyn’s signature saxophone sound blends musical opposites into captivating sonic combinations – accessibly groovy, familiar yet spontaneous, soothing yet exciting. Vivacious and bell-toned, Kelly Dupuy Schmitt‘s vocals couple warmth of interpretation with warmth of spirit, ensuring a soul-recharging experience for listeners and fellow musicians alike.

And band leader Ryan Janscha? He’s simply a monster on the keyboards and vocals; he’s a human jukebox who probably knows every song ever written!

Want an even bigger taste of the J Ryan Trio? Just visit their website: www.jryantrio.com

This will be a benefit show for the Jazz Gallery Center for the Arts, with all proceeds going towards upgrading/renovating the venue’s interior and exterior. Donations of all sizes will be accepted at the door (cash or card).

FAST FACTS

  • WHO: The J Ryan Trio (which, of course, isn’t really a trio).
  • WHAT: An evening of jazz influenced by blues, funk, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll.
  • WHEN: Saturday, December 13 from 7 until 10 pm (doors open at 6:30 pm).
  • WHERE: The historic Jazz Gallery Center for the Arts, 926 E. Center St. in Milwaukee’s buzz-worthy Riverwest neighborhood.
  • WHY: You like fun? This will be fun!!!!!
  • HOW MUCH: Tax-deductible donations of any size taken at the door.

The Jazz Gallery Center for the Arts is a non-profit organization focused on building community and providing opportunities to create, present, and experience the visual and performing arts. Located in the Riverwest neighborhood, it serves the entire Milwaukee metropolitan region and supports both emerging and established artists.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.

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