As a child, Caylen Bryant began her musical journey as a songbird and cellist. Many years later, she picked up the bass while at school at Oberlin College and Conservatory, where she earned her degrees in Africana Studies and Jazz Bass Performance. She studied with Peter Dominguez and Gerald Cannon, and now plays a wide variety of music on both the upright bass and electric bass.
Bryant is passionate about teaching, and directs a community music program for youth in Brooklyn, NY. The program was founded by New York Times best-selling author and musician James McBride. She has worked extensively with Jazz House Kids and the New Jersey Youth Symphony Orchestra, and teaches private lessons as well.
She is the current bassist for Blue Note Records artist Kandace Springs, and toured the West Coast with her in 2020. In her most recent studio recording, Bryant was the bassist for the 2020 Grammy-winning album All the Ladies by Joanie Leeds.
Eager to expand her musical abilities, Caylen will be attending the Juilliard School this fall to earn her master's degree.