Kayla Bryan, from Guilford, Connecticut, earned her master’s degree this past May as a student of Ilya Kaler at the Cleveland Institute of Music. She completed her Bachelor of Music degree at Lynn University Conservatory of Music where she studied with Elmar Oliveira. She was awarded the Scott Sullivan Prize for Post-1950s Piece at the Ronald Sachs International Music Competition, and last summer she was a fellow at the Bowdoin International Music Festival. Kayla joined the Louisville Orchestra July 2024.

What do you enjoy most about performing with the Louisville Orchestra? 

I love how welcoming and supportive the orchestra is, and how enthusiastic every single audience is. It’s a great mix, and it keeps me feeling fulfilled, motivated, and excited for every performance.

In what ways do you think the Louisville Orchestra can make the greatest impact on our community?

The community concerts are some of my favorites. Playing for students and young kids and making those connections creates important bonds and memories, and I love doing them!

Who is your favorite composer or musician?

I love playing Stravinsky, Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich, and Prokofiev

Do you have a Louisville Orchestra or event that is especially meaningful or memorable?

On the most recent tour, I played for a large group of third graders; they were so attentive, and they asked the best questions!! Getting to know the community and work with the next generation of musicians is one of my favorite things.

What do you love most about being part of the Louisville community?  

I love being part of a community that feels like a big family. The orchestra also goes out of their way to play for people all over the state, so it feels like it builds an even greater sense of community.

What’s something unique, surprising, fun, or interesting about you?  

I was a ballet dancer for 15 years!

What are some of your hobbies outside the LO?

Baking, hiking, and paint by numbers

What's on your playlist (what song are you currently into)?

Danish String Quartet, their new Keel Road album