Ryan Peni

Tuba soloist and creative force reshaping how the world hears low brass.
From concert halls to community stages, his performances fuse technical mastery with cultural depth.
Rooted in Aotearoa and inspired by movement, story, and soul — this is the tuba, reimagined.

ABOUT

From Rotorua beginnings to international stages, Ryan Peni is reshaping the sound of the tuba.
With a fearless approach and deep cultural connection, his performances blend tradition and innovation.
Whether classical, jazz, or funk, Ryan pushes the boundaries of low brass music.
Discover the journey of a musician redefining his instrument’s role in modern sound.

He koha te pūoro mā te katoa ki te whakawhiti.

Man with beard and tattoos posing with a brass tuba against a black background.

Latest Release

Dis-Chord (best experienced with headphones or a kickass sound system)

Dark. Relentless. Uneasy.

Dis-Chord pulls you into a dystopian undercurrent, reflecting the tension and pulse of the world today.

Sombre tones are carried by a beat 'our lifeline' that refuses to stop. This will be best experienced through headphones, where the bass line slips and crosses from side to side, creating a warped, immersive contrast. This is the sound of movement: beauty and grit side by side, always pushing forward.

No plan. No idea. Just two hours on the clock and a dystopian world found!

FUNNK ! ! !

No plan. No idea. Just two hours on the clock and a groove waiting to happen.

What started as a random idea during a recording session turned into something fun, instinctive, and full of energy. Built from scratch with zero expectations, this track is pure experimentation. Raw, unpolished, and unapologetically funky.

Te Hīkoi o ngā Tipua (March of the Giants) began as a spark of spontaneous inspiration an image of a towering warrior charging through the forest, fierce in presence but guided by a light-hearted riff. This piece imagines a mythical march: a procession of Tipua, the supernatural beings of Māori tradition, striding through the whenua.

They are not monsters or villains but kaitiaki, guardians. Giants of the land, embodying strength, mana, and connection to Papatūānuku, our Earth Mother. The footsteps are heard in every note steady, deliberate, sometimes playful, always purposeful. The tuba becomes their voice, carrying the weight of their presence while allowing space for whimsy, character, and breath.

SOCIALS

Upcoming events

  • Aurora Festival - Burnside High School and The Aurora Centre

    20 - 23 August 2025

  • Nelson City Brass - Soloist - The Last Night of the Proms

    6 September 2025

  • MusicWorks - Soloist/Tutor - MEFA - Music Ensemble Festival Aotearoa - Wellington.

    16 - 19 September 2025

Testimonials

  • “Ryan exemplifies excellence in brass performance and leadership. A passionate advocate for the tuba and music education, he combines technical brilliance with a dynamic stage presence that captivates audiences. As a MusicWorks NZ and Eastman Artist , Ryan brings fresh energy to ensemble leadership and national education forums, helping redefine how the tuba is perceived and celebrated across New Zealand and beyond.”

    Darren Smith - GM MusicWorks NZ

  • “Ryan’s talent, technique, and showmanship on the tuba delivered a truly unforgettable performance.”

    The Nelson Mail

Contact / kia ora

Whether you're looking to book a live performance, discuss a creative project, or explore teaching and collaboration opportunities, this is the place to start. Fill out the form below with as much detail as you like, and we'll be in touch soon to continue the conversation.

Man with beard and tattoos posing with a brass tuba against a black background.