Nick Caux joined the Louisville Orchestra as Principal Bassist in September. A graduate of Boston University, Nick studied under Edwin Barker, Principal Bassist of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Nick has participated in renowned festivals including the Music Academy of the West, Aspen Music Festival, and the Tanglewood Music Center, where he had the honor of performing with the Boston Symphony as a fellow. In addition to his musical career, Nick has a passion for photography, hiking, physical wellness, and baking.
What do you enjoy most about performing with the Louisville Orchestra?
It's been my dream to play in a professional orchestra for several years, and to now be that person that I would've looked up to as a kid feels very surreal and fulfilling.
In what ways do you think the Louisville Orchestra can make the greatest impact on our community?
By bringing entertainment to people from every economic background as well as provide performance and education opportunities to those who are less fortunate.
What is your favorite type of orchestral music to perform, and why?
Mahler symphonies are the best because they have the best bass parts. Mahler almost always adds some kind of bass solo or soli section in each symphony.
Who is your favorite composer or musician?
My Favorite composer is Strauss and my favorite musician is Pablo Casals
Do you have a Louisville Orchestra or event that is especially meaningful or memorable?
Not yet, but I'm really looking forward to playing alpine symphony.
What are some things that inspire you as a musician?
The idea of complete mastery over my instrument is very appealing. Being able to pick up the bass and play almost anything if I put my mind to it is extremely fulfilling. Witnessing very high levels of musicianship is also very inspiring, and those experiences always push me to do better with my own personal practice. I also really appreciate the idea of being able to convey complex emotions through music. Some pieces let you convert feelings into sound in a way that would be ineffable.
What do you love most about being part of the Louisville community?
Everyone I have met so far has been very friendly and welcoming. It feels good to be part of a group that is interested in getting to know each other and open to new connections.
What’s something unique, surprising, fun, or interesting about you?
I love taking ice baths. Since I started taking them I've felt generally happier and more motivated to do the things I love.
What are some of your hobbies outside the LO?
I like to run and swim, call friends and family, sit on my front porch, cook, photograph nature, and discover new music.
How do you stay connected with the community outside of your performances?
I do not have much experience with that here in Louisville yet, but I think that the new emphasis on social media will help our audiences see us more as people instead of stone-faced musicians. In other words I think from an audience perspective it is easy to see musicians as cogs in a machine, but in actuality we all have colorful lives and idiosyncrasies that are worth sharing with our audiences.
Favorite orchestral work?
Schoenberg's Verklarte Nacht
What's on your playlist (what song are you currently into)?
Lujon