Fredericksburg Academy junior Tyler Reese began seriously practicing guitar about two years ago, but already finds himself performing--and holding his own--among much older and more experienced musicians in his progressive rock band, Risus. JULIAN ROBERSON/ACCENT VIDEOGRAPHY Visit the Photo Place

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Fredericksburg Academy student Tyler Reese plays in the big leagues with Risus21

Date published: 7/3/2009

BY JANUS CHIDESTER

The thriving Fredericksburg music scene has birthed many bands and artists, but the bars and pubs that host music in the area are mostly off-limits to those under 21.

Because of this, the only outlets for a young musician's artistic expression are organizations such as Fredericksburg All Ages or venues like KC's Music Alley, which host high school bands as well as older talent.

But this implied line between the older and younger music scenes is occasionally breached by raw talent, as in the case of Tyler Reese.

Reese is 16 years old, a rising junior at Fredericksburg Academy and the guitarist for local progressive rock group Risus.

The other members of Risus are all around the age of 30, and a few have even toured nationally. But there's no doubt that Reese pulls his own weight and then some.

The band's songs are full of impressively fast and technical guitar riffs, perfectly executed by Reese, that fit seamlessly into their power-driven rock.

Reese spoke recently about his relationship with Risus, as well as his own musical prowess and endeavors:

So, how long have you been playing guitar?

I've been playing for four years, but I started getting serious--playing about four hours a day--two years ago.

Do you have any previous musical background?

Yeah, I've played piano since I was 3, and I've studied music theory since then, too. I also play saxophone.

What kind of music do you listen to?

Everything. Mostly rock, but I appreciate jazz, classical, classic rock and metal.

Does the music you listen to influence how and what you play?

It all significantly affects the way I play. I try to add different elements from each style into what I play.

What kind of music does Risus play?

We play progressive rock.

When Risus is writing songs, what is your role in the process?

Our bassist writes the bass lines and the chord progressions. As the guitarist, I write the guitar riffs and I arrange different sounds.

Where does Risus usually play?

We play all over, but we're trying to play more festival-type shows to get people to actually come see us, so it's not like KC's Music Alley, where we play with 20 other bands for five minutes.

On the Fourth of July, we're playing at the Heritage Festival, and on July 10 we're playing at Golden Monkey Tattoo for their grand opening celebration.

What are your plans for the future, after high school?

I plan to major in music. I've been looking at schools like Berklee [College of Music] and Juilliard, but also schools like George Mason or JMU--anywhere where I can study music and learn more about it.

What about playing music? Do you think you'll be involved in more bands after Risus? What are your plans for your music?

I'm not sure specifically--there are so many possibilities. Of course, I'll be involved with bands, but I don't know what I'll be doing. I could end up being a guitar instructor, or opening a shop or anything.

Janus Chidester is a rising senior at Stafford High School.

What: Risus performs at the Heritage Festival. Where: Main Stage, 701 Sophia St., in front of the former Wings on the Water When: Tomorrow, 2:45 p.m. Cost: Free Info: Fredericksburg Visitors Center: 540/373-1776 Web: myspace.com/risus21 What: Risus performs at Golden Monkey Tattoo's grand opening show (benefiting Calvary Christian Church) alongside Elisium and With Haste. Where: Golden Monkey Tattoo, 1901 Dixon St., Unit 2 When: Friday, July 10, 6 p.m. Cost: $10

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Date published: 7/3/2009