Meet NYC-based Artist Karl Kilb IV
Karl Kilb IV is an NYC-based musician, composer, and producer. He released his debut single, “Heart” in March 2024. You can find him on Instagram.
CATHOLIC ARTIST CONNECTION: Where are you from originally, and what brought you to your current city?
KARL KILB IV: I am a born and bred New Yorker. I have attended all levels of my education here including Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts and currently NYU. I also attended St. Ignatius Loyola School for 9 years. It was there that I had access to music education and learned a lot about Catholicism.
Where have you found support in the Church for your vocation as an artist?
Catholic school allowed me to join a concert band where I played the clarinet and saxophone and a jazz band where I played the piano. My music teachers at St. Ignatius Loyola School were extremely supportive of me as a musician and artist. Catholic education, Church teaching, and my faith have given me great guidance and strength in my life.
Where in your city do you regularly find spiritual fulfillment?
I regularly attend St. Patrick's Cathedral, St. Joseph's Greenwich Village, and Saint Ignatius Loyola. They are beautiful churches with amazing music and very active parishioners.
Where in your city do you regularly find artistic fulfillment?
NYC itself inspires my music and is a huge part of who I am. Within the city I love going to venues like Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, and Town Hall. I also get a lot of inspiration from museums and public libraries around the city. My favorite museums are the MET Cloisters and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
What is your daily spiritual practice?
I pray and read the Bible everyday before I go to sleep. I also enjoy visiting various Churches in NYC to pray and examine my conscious and attending Mass every Sunday. Right now I am reading the "Little Black Books" everyday for Lenten reflection.
What is your daily artistic practice?
I try my best to find time to practice piano every day and educate myself on what is happening in local and and broader music scenes. I learn a lot from other artists and by listening to many different genres of music. Whether I am cooking at home or walking around the city I'll usually be listening to music.
How do you market your art and/or build a professional network as an artist?
I market my music primarily on social media and by sharing it with friends and family. I attend a good number of concerts each year and usually find people to connect with there. Being a senior at NYU, I often share my music with classmates and professors. I believe being active in your local artistic community is crucial to connecting with new people and sharing your art. I have found a great group of singers, musicians, filmmakers, and visual artists here in NYC.
What other practical resources would you recommend to a Catholic artist living in your city?
The Young Catholic Professionals is a great organization here in NYC that has chapters around the USA. Having attended a few events, they offer great networking and career opportunities with informative talks and educational components. I have met amazing people through these events!