Caleb Hudson (Instrumental Music, GSA 2005) is the youngest musician ever invited to join the prestigious Canadian Brass. He spoke recently with GSA staffer Morgan Eklund about his career and the impact GSA had on his artistic development.
GSA: Describe your career path thus far.
Caleb Hudson: I attended GSA in the summer of 2005, in between my two years as a student at the Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan. Upon graduating from Interlochen, I entered Juilliard, where I completed my Bachelor and Master of Music degrees in six years. After graduating Juilliard in 2012, I decided to remain in NYC as a fellow of Carnegie Hall’s Academy program, which is the resident chamber ensemble of Carnegie Hall. Eight months later, I was offered the position in the Canadian Brass.
GSA: How did the Kentucky Center Governor’s School for the Arts (GSA) Summer Program affect your development as a musician?
CH: Programs like GSA are creative incubators that offer artists the environment and the means to explore their artistic potential. In every musical institution that I’ve been a part of, it is the artist that takes full advantage of this opportunity that succeeds. So much can be learned from immersing yourself in a new perspective. For me, I prioritize this creative exploration, no matter the situation or location.
GSA: What is your favorite memory from the GSA Summer Program?
CH: GSA is a showcase of the best artistic talent that KY has to offer. The most valuable experience of GSA is in meeting new friends from various artistic disciplines, and collaborating in a way that expands one’s creative potential. The guest artists were particularly inspiring. I remember the DiMartino-Osland Jazz Orchestra gave a thrilling performance that brought everyone to their feet.
GSA: You recently performed at The Kentucky Center and held a master class for local musicians. What was that like?
CH: Last month, the Canadian Brass performed with the Louisville Orchestra at The Kentucky Center. This was my first performance in Kentucky since joining the ensemble a year ago. It was a very meaningful concert, a “homecoming” of sorts. I had so many family members, friends, and teachers in the audience, and it reminded me of the incredible support I experienced while growing up. In this career path, you can’t do it alone. It’s important to recognize this and to be grateful for the sacrifices people make when they believe in one’s potential.
Video: Canadian Brass perform Rimsky-Korsakov's "Flight of the Bumblebee" during Kentucky Center master class
GSA What advice do you have to the recently- accepted GSA class of 2014?
CH: Take full advantage of this incredibly unique environment. You won’t experience this level of artistic community very often. There are so many opportunities to be inspired and learn from your colleagues.
Learn more about The Kentucky Center Governor's School for the Arts by visiting www.kentuckygsa.org.