Ryan Bender

Color Guard Director

Ryan Bender is an active choreographer and color guard instructor originally from Los Angeles, California.

He has performed with top WGI and DCI ensembles across the country, including The Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps, Blue Stars Drum and Bugle Corps, and Mirage Performance Ensemble.

In addition to his performance background, Ryan brings a wealth of experience in choreography and instruction. Most recently based in Dallas, Texas, he served as the Color Guard Director at Grapevine High School, leading the team to its first-ever Winter Guard State Championship. He has also worked with nationally recognized programs such as Flower Mound High School, Prosper High School, and Tarpon Springs High School—where they were named the 2023 WGI Scholastic World Class Silver Medalist.

Ryan is currently on staff with the Santa Clara Vanguard Color Guard, where he serves as an instructor and choreographer.

He is excited to carry on the legacy of the McNeil Band and Color Guard program and looks forward to an incredible season ahead!