Malia Huntsman

Malia Huntsman

is a prominent freelance artist based in Madison, Wisconsin. Known for her lyrical and captivating playing as a soloist, she performs with local orchestras multiple times a year. Her wide range of musical skills cover a variety of genres from high energy Lindsey Sterling pop hits to nuanced interpretations of the great oboe concertos. She has graced famous stages across the country, including Carnegie Hall, Colburn, and Tanglewood, and her performances have been featured on several radio stations and PBS. She holds the principal position in two local orchestras and is a member of the Festival Choir Chamber Players. She studied oboe at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music with James Caldwell and Alex Klein, and English horn with Robert Walters. She holds a Masters of Music from Rice University, where she studied with Robert Atherholt.

“Laubin instruments have transformed how I express myself as a musician. I am able to whisper on low notes in delicate entrances and soar over the orchestra in dramatic solos. Technical challenges that once felt limiting now feel fluid and responsive. I can simply enjoy playing instead of having to sacrifice artistic decisions for the sake of an instrument’s capabilities.

As of 2025, I’m playing a new Laubin English horn and it surpasses even my previous one! It offers remarkable projection, a resonant and nuanced tone, and an impressively consistent scale. True to Laubin’s reputation, it’s a joy to play and a trusted partner in performance.”