Kaz Hudson is a versatile, award-winning guitarist with 1st prizes in the James Stroud Classical Guitar Competition and the Denver Guitar Festival Competition. He was also a featured artist on NPR’s From the Top series and a recipient of the Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award.
Beginning his studies in Colorado, Kaz studied with guitarists Mike Hyland and Jonathan Leathwood. His musical upbringing was diverse, encompassing experiences in jazz combos, bands, choirs, and pit orchestras alongside his solo classical guitar performances.
Currently, Kaz is pursuing a Bachelor of Music at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, studying with Meng Su. He frequently collaborates with musicians and composers at SFCM, playing in ensemble and chamber music recitals, as well as working with composers on writing for the guitar.
Kaz has a deep interest in exploring other genres, including jazz, folk, rock, and Latin American music, with goals of connecting with colleagues and expanding his artistic palette. He strives to use his wide range of influences to bring audiences authentic and captivating artistic experiences.
Eduard Hrmushyan is a distinguished classical guitarist from Armenia, renowned for his virtuosic performances and profound musicality. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Performing Arts from the Yerevan State Conservatory after Komitas, which laid a solid foundation for his illustrious career in classical music. His passion for the guitar and dedication to his craft have propelled him onto the international stage, where he continues to captivate audiences with his expressive interpretations and technical prowess.
Currently, Eduard is pursuing a Master of Music degree at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, studying under the esteemed Professor David Tanenbaum. This new chapter in his educational journey allows him to refine his artistry while immersing himself in a vibrant musical community.
Since 2013, Eduard has participated in numerous international guitar competitions across various countries, showcasing his talent and earning accolades for his performances. Notably, in 2021, he achieved remarkable success at the Tbilisi International Guitar Competition, where he secured 1st prize, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in the classical guitar world. That same year, he also garnered 1st prize at the International Classical Guitar Competition in Mottola, Italy, and participated in the Montenegro International Guitar Competition, further demonstrating his adaptability and skills.
In addition to his competition successes, Eduard was honored with an invitation to perform as a soloist at the Guitar World Festival in Kaluga, Russia, in May 2021 and again in May 2023, this time collaborating with the Kaluga Chamber Orchestra. His ability to engage audiences through solo performances and orchestral collaborations speaks to his versatility as a musician. Furthermore, in 2022, Eduard had the distinct privilege of performing his own arrangements for guitar and orchestra of Antonio Vivaldi’s Violin Concerto with the Tbilisi Chamber Orchestra.