A NEWPORT musician has been honoured for his contribution to classical music at an international awards ceremony held in Los Angeles.

Greg Ryan, of Rogerstone, won seven awards - including artist of the year - at the fifth Indie Music Channel Awards (IMC Awards) Weekend, held at the Grammy Museum in Hollywood.

The 26-year-old joined artists from around the world at the red carpet event, on April 24, having been nominated 12 times in classical and soundtrack categories.

He was named best male classical artist, best classical recording, best classical song, best classical producer, best soundtrack artist and best live soundtrack.

The University of South Wales graduate, who taught himself to play the piano and harp, released his first album aged 19 called ‘Scribblings’. It has since been sold in over 30 countries.

His latest album ‘Crossways’, which is due to be released on iTunes in May, won a Classical Radio Award for Best Male Artist.

The former Bassaleg Comprehensive student said: “It was incredible to win an award and gobsmacking to have to make seven acceptance speeches.”

“I was nominated alongside some incredibly talented people so it was a huge shock to win,” he added.

Mr Ryan said of his music: “My aim as a musician is for people to enjoy themselves and get something from a performance that they didn't expect.

“There is a lot of snobbery and elitism in the classical world and I try and counter that with fun shows that don't take themselves too seriously.

“I use stories to engage the audience with the music and try to appear as human as its possible to be while sitting at a piano.”

Visit www.facebook.com/gregryanmusic for more information.