Though he's never competed in the Rock-Off, 17-year-old Ryan Woodbury of Gray is one incomparable local singer-songwriter destined to become a successful major artist.

In the meantime, he will be hosting Reindeer Records' 25th Annual Rock-Off competition at McAuley Performing Arts Center in Portland, where 19 high school rock bands from across the state will be displaying their original talents in hopes of becoming the "Best High School Rock Band in Maine."

Ryan picked up his first guitar at the age of fourteen and hasn't stopped playing since. In 2007, he played his first public performance at a local talent show and revealed his impressive and unique guitar and vocal skills. Since then he's developed a broad fan base as he continues to cultivate his original material and advance his recording goals.

A senior at Gray-New Gloucester High School, Ryan has a style that is refreshing and unequaled in talent, with such influences as John Mayer, Eric Clapton, B.B. King and James Taylor. In addition to being a frequent performer at local open mic shows, he can be heard every Saturday at Mt. Abram ski resort

Growing up in the small town of Gray, Maine, and coming from a musical family, Ryan had opportunities to perform all of his life, but never picked up the guitar until his mom started playing in 2005.

Like an artist who paints with his hands and colors, Ryan uses his guitar and voice to shape his songs and captivate his audience. Some of his tunes have a serious side while others are humorous and catchy. He is hoping to release his first CD this summer but admits, "it's something that can't be rushed."

Ryan recognizes the gift he has to share and said he can't imagine doing anything else with his life besides writing and sharing his music. "I write from the heart and it just seems to flow."

The Rock-Off 25 Showcases are slated for Sunday, March 15 and Sunday, March 22, both at 2 PM. The all-ages shows are open to the general public. General Admission is $10/advance and $12/door. For complete information, contact Reindeer Records at 857-9002 or visit www.mainetoday.com/rockoff.

Woodbury. Out.