The Carl Institute offers jazz education and performance opportunities, exploring the metaphysical benefits of music. Dive into the cosmic mysteries of jazz and experience the transformative power of music with us.

Weldon Fulton is a jazz guitarist based out of Austin Texas. Weldon wears many hats in his studio, The Carl Institute. As a guitar teacher Weldon excels in communicating complex music theory in a compelling and easy to understand way. As a performer Weldon uses his unique influences to broaden the boundaries of jazz bringing the genre to new and exciting places. As a producer Weldon provides high quality recording and live sound to local Austin musicians with competitive prices on a sliding scale. 

Michelle Rueda is a versatile performer and creative lead whose rich, expressive vocals bring jazz fusion to life. While building a successful career in technology leadership, Michelle has cultivated a parallel artistic path within The Carl Institute, where she produces immersive theatrical experiences that blend live music with interactive storytelling. Her unique approach combines the precision of her technical background with the spontaneity of jazz improvisation, creating performances where audiences become active participants.

"I discovered a love of improvisational music in 2009 with my band then called the Nam Shub of Enki. We transitioned from written music to fully improvised when I noticed a unique type of energy present during improv sessions. We sought to capture that energy live on stage at which point we named our band Carl in homage to the late great Carl Sagan. I’m the years since I have become an expert in jazz improvisation. My love of jazz was acquired at Austin’s very own premier jazz club the Elephant Room. In 2018 I decided to pursue a bachelors degree in jazz guitar and in 2024 I completed this goal. Since becoming Carl I have steadily collected high quality live sound and recording gear as well as a roster of extremely talented improvisers."-Weldon