Mario Tsz-chun To & Kaz Hudson
The Next Generation of Classical Guitar Has Arrived
September 13, 2026
The Next Generation of Classical Guitar Has Arrived
September 13, 2026
Doors and Cultivar Wine Bar open at 3:30 PM
Performance: 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Discover Two Remarkable Young Guitarists
Be among the first to experience the brilliance of two extraordinary young guitarists whose talent, creativity, and artistry are propelling them towards exceptional careers. These emerging stars are transforming the classical guitar landscape, infusing it with fresh energy, bold musicianship, and an undeniable passion.
A Captivating Performance
Witness these innovative artists as they intricately weave together mesmerizing melodies, lush harmonies, and captivating rhythms with incredible precision. Each note is crafted by hand, making every performance not only deeply personal but also visually stunning. You won’t just hear the music—you’ll see it come alive.
Mario Tsz-chun To is an established guitarist-composer who has collaborated with esteemed international artists including Meng Su, Sergio Assad, David Tanenbaum, and Hungarian conductor Gergely Madaras. Mario is currently a teaching faculty member at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music (Pre-College) and the California Conservatory of Music.
A highlight of his orchestral career includes performing Concierto de Aranjuez with the Mill Valley Philharmonic in 2026. He first gained international recognition by winning the Tarrega Malaysia International Guitar Festival Competition in 2017 and the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts Concerto Competition in 2021. Mario has also performed at the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption, and has appeared as a soloist with organizations including the Hong Kong International Airport, the Asia Society, and the Royal Commonwealth Society. In 2020, the University of Hong Kong invited him to deliver a lecture on the music of Tōru Takemitsu.
Kaz Hudson is a versatile guitarist known for his expressive depth, stylistic range, and commitment to expanding the voice of classical guitar. Performing on acoustic and electric guitars, Kaz explores a wide array of musical traditions while keeping classical guitar at the center of his artistry.Kaz’s performances have been featured by organizations such as the Omni Foundation, the Carmel Guitar Society, and NPR’s From the Top. He has received numerous top prizes, including first prize at the Josefina P. Tuason International Guitar Competition and the James Stroud Classical Guitar Competition. A passionate chamber musician, Kaz was the first guitarist ever accepted into the Yellow Barn Young Artists Program and was a winner of the SFCM Honors Ensemble Competition as part of Duo Panoro with clarinetist Zoe King.Kaz began his studies in Colorado with Mike Hyland and Jonathan Leathwood while developing a broad musical background in jazz combos, wind ensembles, choirs, and pit orchestras. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music studying with Meng Su.