Habits of a Successful Beginner Guitarist

Matt Hudson is a versatile guitarist and dedicated music educator with deep roots in jazz, rock, R&B, and funk. Originally from Erie, Pennsylvania, he honed his craft at the University of Pittsburgh, studying under jazz luminaries Dr. Nathan Davis and Joe Negri, as well as contemporary composer Mathew Rosenblum. As a recipient of the prestigious Mellon Jazz Scholarship, he immersed himself in Pittsburgh’s vibrant jazz scene, performing alongside some of the city’s finest musicians.

In 2003, Hudson relocated to Chicago, where he quickly became a sought-after guitarist, collaborating with artists like Will Kurk, Anthony Nicholson, and Cole DeGenova. His ability to blend technical mastery with expressive improvisation has made him a standout in Chicago’s diverse music community.

Alongside his performance career, Hudson has been committed to music education since 2000, sharing his expertise with students of all levels. He earned a Master of Music Education degree from VanderCook College of Music and currently teaches at the Chicago High School for Agricultural Sciences. His approach emphasizes both foundational technique and creative expression, helping students develop not only their skills but also their musical voice.

Scott Rush is the team lead for the Habits series by GIA Publications and is the former Director of Bands at Wando High School in Mount Pleasant, SC. He is a graduate of the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, Massachusetts and the University of South Carolina. He currently serves as co-conductor of the Charleston Wind Symphony, a semi-professional ensemble in Charleston, South Carolina. Under his direction, the Wando Symphonic Band performed at the 2007 Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic and were recipients of the 2007 Sudler Flag of Honor administered by the John Philip Sousa Foundation. His marching bands were two-time BOA Grand National finalist. Mr. Rush is active as a conductor, clinician and adjudicator throughout the United States and Canada. He is the author and co-author of fourteen highly touted books, some of which include: Habits of A Successful Band Director, Habits of a Successful Beginner Band Musician, Habits of a Successful Musician, Habits of a Successful Beginner Band Musician, Habits of a Successful Middle School Musician, The Evolution of a Successful Band Director, Habits of a Successful Middle School Band Director, Habits of a Significant Band Director and Pathway to Success for GIA Publications. Mr. Rush has served as President of the South Carolina Band Directors Association and is a former member of the Board of Directors for the National Band Association. In 2010, Mr. Rush was elected into the prestigious American Bandmasters Association and in 2011 was awarded the Bandworld “Legion of Honor.” In 2016, he was awarded the Edwin Franko Goldman Award by the ASBDA for contributions to music education.