About Smilin' Rylan

2022 Western Canadian Music Award nominee Smilin’ Rylan writes and performs catchy, fun and honest children’s music in every style imaginable – loved by kids, supported by teachers and approved by parents.  His live performances are described as “Enthusiastic, entertaining and energetic!”  With a background in education, Smilin’ Rylan brings together universal themes, important lessons and great music in what’s been called “A winning formula!”

 

Smilin' Rylan grew up in a town called Hay River way up in the Northwest Territories, and now lives in Banff, Alberta. He plays all kinds of instruments, and even graduated university with degrees in Music and Education. Smilin' Rylan's been working and playing with kids for many years. In fact, in addition to performing children's music full time, he coaches several sports and is a fine arts & phys-ed teacher to kids in almost every grade. Nowadays you can catch Smiln' Rylan performing for kids and families all over the world!

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Smilin' Rylan believes that quality children's music actively engages kids, even if it's their first time listening to it. Whether by singing along, learning dances, or doing fun movements, kids should be able to participate right away. Moms and Dads should be able to enjoy the songs too! This is what Smilin' Rylan strives to achieve in his song writing. He is also a strong advocate for "saving our children from nature-deficit disorder" (Richard Louv), and believes that getting outside and using our imagination is key to a healthy mind, body, and spirit.

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Here are some fun facts about Smiln' Rylan:

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-he can't pick a favorite colour so he wears them all

-he loves canoeing, hiking, swimming, skiing, and just about everything outdoors

-his favorite food is scrambled eggs & spinach on toast 

-he loves playing in the snow and lounging on a beach

-he's had lots of cool jobs: an electrician, a national park interpreter, and even a scuba divemaster

-he loves to read and takes a book everywhere he goes, just in case 

-his favorite animals are owls and turtles

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