The clarinet, often described as the “singing voice” of the orchestra, has enchanted audiences for centuries with its rich tones, dynamic range, and unparalleled versatility. From soulful jazz improvisations to the intricate passages of classical concertos, the clarinet has been a powerful medium for musical storytelling. But behind this instrument’s magic lies the brilliance of the players—artists who have pushed the boundaries of its potential and forever changed the way we listen to music.
In this article, we celebrate the top 15 best clarinet players of all time—legends who have left an indelible mark on music history. These virtuosos come from diverse genres and backgrounds, each bringing their unique artistry to the instrument. Whether it’s the groundbreaking jazz innovations of Benny Goodman, the classical mastery of Sabine Meyer, or the contemporary brilliance of Martin Fröst, these musicians have elevated the clarinet to extraordinary heights.
Get ready to be inspired by their stories, awed by their technical prowess, and captivated by their artistry. Discover how these clarinetists redefined the sound of their eras, transcending technical mastery to transform the clarinet into a vessel of emotion and expression. Let’s dive into the lives and legacies of the greatest clarinet players the world has ever known!
1. Benny Goodman
Known as the “King of Swing,” Benny Goodman is widely regarded as one of the most transformative figures in the history of jazz. Born in 1909, Goodman’s contributions to music transcended mere performance; he revolutionized the role of the clarinet in jazz and helped to shape the sound of an entire era. His mastery of the clarinet was unparalleled, and his ability to swing with infectious energy became the defining characteristic of his music. Goodman’s career reached a pinnacle in 1938 with his legendary Carnegie Hall Jazz Concert, which became a landmark moment in jazz history. This performance demonstrated Goodman’s incredible talent and versatility, as he seamlessly blended classical influences with the improvisational nature of jazz, earning praise from both the classical and jazz worlds.
Goodman’s collaborations with top jazz musicians of the time, including Count Basie and Teddy Wilson, resulted in iconic recordings that helped popularize jazz on a global scale. His big band sound, characterized by tight arrangements and rhythmic precision, became a staple of the Swing Era, and his influence as a bandleader, clarinetist, and composer shaped the course of popular music. Throughout his career, Goodman’s impeccable technique and ability to communicate the spirit of jazz through his clarinet made him a beloved figure. Even after his passing, his legacy endures, with his recordings serving as a gold standard for aspiring clarinetists and jazz musicians alike. Goodman not only elevated the clarinet’s role in jazz but also left an indelible mark on the music world that continues to inspire musicians today.
2. Sabine Meyer
Sabine Meyer is a true trailblazer in the world of classical music, and her remarkable career as a clarinetist has broken boundaries and set new standards for excellence. Born in Germany, Meyer defied the conventions of her time, becoming one of the first female clarinetists to gain a prominent position in major orchestras. Her warm, rich tone and impeccable technical precision have earned her widespread acclaim, and she is often regarded as one of the finest clarinetists in the world. Throughout her career, Meyer has performed with prestigious orchestras and ensembles, and her solo performances have captivated audiences worldwide.
One of Meyer’s most significant contributions to the clarinet world has been her ability to elevate the instrument’s status in classical music. She has collaborated with some of the greatest conductors and composers of her time, and her performances have been lauded for their expressiveness and musical depth. Meyer’s repertoire is vast, spanning works by classical masters such as Mozart and Brahms, as well as contemporary composers who have been inspired by her artistry. Her technical command of the clarinet is matched only by the emotional power of her playing, and she is known for her ability to bring out the fullest range of colors and dynamics from the instrument.
Meyer’s passion for the clarinet extends beyond performance, as she has also been a devoted educator, inspiring the next generation of clarinetists. Through her teaching and her ongoing commitment to expanding the clarinet’s repertoire, Sabine Meyer has secured her place as a leading figure in the world of classical music, and her influence on the instrument will be felt for years to come.
3. Artie Shaw
Artie Shaw was one of the most influential clarinetists and bandleaders of the 20th century, known for his innovative approach to jazz and his exceptional skill as both a performer and arranger. Shaw’s contributions to jazz were groundbreaking, and he played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of the Big Band Era. With his smooth, lyrical clarinet playing and forward-thinking arrangements, Shaw became one of the leading figures in jazz during the 1930s and 1940s. His signature sound, characterized by its sweet yet dynamic tone, helped him to stand out among his contemporaries, including Benny Goodman.
Shaw’s most iconic piece, “Begin the Beguine,” became a jazz standard and exemplified his ability to blend complex musical elements with popular appeal. His mastery of improvisation and his emotionally charged performances made his music resonate deeply with audiences, and his influence extended far beyond jazz, with his work crossing into swing, bebop, and classical music. Shaw was not just a virtuoso clarinetist; he was a visionary who redefined what jazz could be through his unique orchestral arrangements and innovative compositions.
Although his career was often marked by personal and professional challenges, including his decision to step away from the public eye multiple times, Shaw’s impact on jazz and the clarinet remains undeniable. His legacy as a musician who pushed boundaries while retaining the emotional depth of his art continues to inspire clarinetists and jazz musicians today. Shaw was not only a master of his craft but also a true pioneer who shaped the course of American jazz history.
4. Martin Fröst
Martin Fröst is a Swedish clarinet virtuoso whose name is synonymous with innovation, artistic expression, and virtuosity. Fröst’s musical journey has taken him to the heights of classical performance, and he is renowned for his ability to push the boundaries of the clarinet as both a soloist and collaborator. His performances are celebrated not only for their technical brilliance but also for their emotional depth, and his approach to the clarinet has redefined what is possible on the instrument.
Fröst’s diverse repertoire spans classical works by composers such as Mozart and Stravinsky, contemporary compositions, and even experimental pieces that explore new sounds and techniques. His ability to adapt to various genres while maintaining a distinctive voice is one of his greatest strengths. He is equally at home performing with major orchestras as he is experimenting with modern, avant-garde pieces in intimate settings. This versatility has made him a sought-after performer on the international stage, and his concerts are known for their electrifying energy and passionate delivery.
As a champion of new music, Martin Fröst has commissioned works from contemporary composers, expanding the clarinet’s repertoire and ensuring that future generations of clarinetists have new and exciting pieces to perform. His contributions to the clarinet community extend beyond performance, as he also teaches and inspires the next generation of musicians. Fröst’s career is a testament to the power of artistic innovation, and his influence on the world of clarinet playing continues to be profound.
5. Sidney Bechet
Sidney Bechet is one of the most pioneering and influential figures in early jazz. Though he is primarily remembered as a soprano saxophonist, his mastery of the clarinet played a foundational role in the development of jazz, especially in its early days. Born in 1897, Bechet was one of the first musicians to truly showcase the clarinet as a solo instrument in the context of jazz, making his mark in a genre traditionally dominated by brass instruments. His soulful, expressive playing style laid the groundwork for many of the jazz clarinetists who followed.
Bechet’s playing was characterized by a rich, emotional tone that resonated with listeners, as well as his groundbreaking improvisational skills. His virtuosity and fearlessness in performance set him apart, and he was one of the first to fully embrace the spontaneous and personal nature of jazz improvisation. In the 1920s, Bechet moved to Paris, where he became a key figure in the European jazz scene. His influence in both Europe and America was profound, and his performances with early jazz ensembles were nothing short of legendary.
Although his time in the spotlight was relatively short, Bechet’s impact on jazz is immeasurable. His pioneering use of the clarinet in jazz helped shape the direction of the genre, and his contributions to the development of improvisation influenced countless musicians. Known for his passion and fiery spirit, Sidney Bechet’s legacy as a clarinetist is one of revolutionary artistic expression, and his music continues to inspire jazz musicians to this day.
6. Karl Leister
Karl Leister is a clarinetist whose artistry has set a high standard for classical musicians worldwide. A renowned figure in Germany, Leister is most famous for his long tenure as the principal clarinetist of the Berlin Philharmonic, where his playing was regarded as the epitome of musical precision and tonal beauty. His career, spanning several decades, has been marked by extraordinary achievements both as a soloist and as a member of the world’s foremost orchestras.
Leister’s musicality is defined by a rare combination of clarity, warmth, and impeccable technical control. His interpretations of the clarinet repertoire are both nuanced and emotionally expressive, bringing out the deepest layers of the music. Whether performing the works of classical composers like Brahms and Mozart or engaging with modern compositions, Leister’s performances have always demonstrated a deep understanding of the piece and a commitment to presenting it with both integrity and artistry.
His influence extends far beyond the concert hall, as Leister has been a dedicated teacher and mentor to numerous students, shaping the next generation of clarinetists. His contributions to the clarinet world include both solo performances and chamber music collaborations, which have expanded the repertoire and brought attention to lesser-known works. Through his technical expertise and deep musicality, Karl Leister has become a role model for clarinetists worldwide, and his legacy continues to inspire.
7. Richard Stoltzman
Richard Stoltzman is a two-time Grammy Award-winning clarinetist whose career spans multiple genres, from classical and jazz to contemporary music. Widely regarded as one of the most versatile and expressive clarinetists of his generation, Stoltzman has been instrumental in expanding the role of the clarinet in modern music. His ability to convey deep emotion through every note, paired with his technical brilliance, has earned him admiration from musicians and audiences alike.
Throughout his career, Stoltzman has collaborated with an impressive range of composers and musicians, and his performances have included everything from traditional orchestral works to avant-garde compositions. His willingness to explore different musical landscapes, from the structured precision of classical music to the freedom of jazz, has solidified his reputation as a clarinetist of exceptional breadth. Stoltzman’s solo albums are celebrated for their rich tone and expressive interpretations, and his concert performances are known for their ability to captivate and move audiences.
In addition to his performing career, Richard Stoltzman has also made significant contributions to the clarinet world as a teacher and advocate for new music. He has premiered numerous works by contemporary composers, and his ability to connect with musicians of all ages has made him an influential figure in music education. Stoltzman’s impact on the clarinet world extends beyond his performances; his dedication to the instrument and its potential has left a lasting legacy.
8. Pete Fountain
Pete Fountain was a beloved figure in the world of New Orleans jazz, known for his smooth, melodic clarinet playing and infectious charm. With a career that spanned several decades, Fountain became an icon of Dixieland jazz, a genre rooted in the music of early 20th-century New Orleans. His mastery of the clarinet, coupled with his ability to bring a personal and engaging touch to every performance, made him a favorite of audiences around the world.
Fountain’s contributions to jazz were profound, and he helped bring the distinctive sound of the New Orleans clarinet back into the spotlight. His early recordings and live performances with his band, the Pete Fountain New Orleans All-Stars, helped revive the traditional jazz sound that had been a hallmark of New Orleans for decades. Fountain’s clarinet playing was known for its smooth phrasing, sweet tone, and a rhythmic sense that made his music irresistible to listeners.
In addition to his work in the jazz scene, Fountain enjoyed a successful career as a performer in Las Vegas and on television, and his personality and stage presence added to his popularity. He recorded numerous albums throughout his career, and his music continues to be a touchstone for those interested in the evolution of jazz clarinet. Pete Fountain’s contribution to the world of music is enduring, and his legacy as a clarinetist remains one of the most cherished in jazz history.
9. David Shifrin
David Shifrin is a distinguished American clarinetist, renowned for his brilliant technique, expressive performances, and extensive contributions to the classical music world. As a highly regarded soloist and chamber musician, Shifrin’s artistry has captivated audiences worldwide. His exceptional control over the clarinet, combined with a profound musical insight, has made him a sought-after performer with numerous prestigious orchestras and music festivals.
Throughout his illustrious career, Shifrin has performed with nearly every major orchestra in the United States, collaborating with renowned conductors and musicians. His performances are marked by an incredible sense of phrasing and an ability to create a deep emotional connection with the listener. Whether performing in large concert halls or in more intimate chamber settings, Shifrin’s playing never fails to resonate with audiences, highlighting his innate understanding of musical expression.
In addition to his performance career, Shifrin has also become a passionate advocate for contemporary music. His dedication to expanding the clarinet repertoire has led him to commission and premiere numerous works from some of the most celebrated composers of today. His advocacy for new music and his role in promoting clarinet works has solidified his place as one of the most important figures in modern clarinet performance.
As an educator, Shifrin has had a profound influence on the next generation of clarinetists. His commitment to nurturing young talent has made him an esteemed teacher, and his impact on the clarinet community is felt not only through his performances but also through his mentorship. David Shifrin’s legacy is one of exceptional artistry, a deep love for the clarinet, and an unwavering commitment to the future of classical music.
10. Giora Feidman
Giora Feidman, often referred to as the “King of Klezmer,” has brought the soulful, expressive sounds of klezmer music to audiences worldwide. Born in Argentina, Feidman is renowned for his deep connection to the Jewish musical traditions, and his interpretations of klezmer music have earned him international acclaim. His emotive clarinet playing, filled with raw emotion and authenticity, has made him a beloved figure in the world of world music.
Feidman’s unique style blends virtuosic technical skill with a deeply emotional approach to music. His clarinet playing is characterized by a rich, mournful tone and an improvisational spirit that connects with listeners on a visceral level. His performances often evoke both joy and sorrow, reflecting the complex history and emotion behind klezmer music. Feidman’s ability to convey such a wide range of emotions through his instrument is one of the reasons his music has resonated so strongly with audiences from all walks of life.
Throughout his career, Feidman has not only popularized klezmer music but also collaborated with artists from a variety of genres, helping to bridge cultural divides through the power of music. His work in bringing klezmer to a global audience has ensured its place in the modern music scene, and his contributions to world music have left a lasting impact.
Giora Feidman’s legacy is one of cultural preservation, musical innovation, and an unwavering passion for the clarinet. His heartfelt performances continue to inspire new generations of musicians and listeners, and his influence on both the klezmer genre and the broader world music community remains immeasurable.
11. Harold Wright
Harold Wright was a revered American clarinetist, best known for his long tenure as the principal clarinetist of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. A musician of impeccable technique and expressive depth, Wright was admired not only for his virtuosity but also for his ability to convey a remarkable level of emotion and warmth through his instrument. His playing became synonymous with the rich sound of the Boston Symphony, and his interpretations of both classical and contemporary clarinet repertoire were widely celebrated.
Wright’s clarinet playing was distinguished by its smooth, velvety tone and exceptional phrasing. Whether performing the works of Brahms, Mozart, or Stravinsky, Wright brought a rare blend of technical precision and lyrical beauty to every piece he played. His long career with the Boston Symphony Orchestra earned him a place as one of the most respected clarinetists in the classical music world, and his influence extended far beyond the orchestra itself.
In addition to his performance career, Wright was an accomplished educator, passing on his knowledge and passion for the clarinet to many students throughout his life. His commitment to teaching and his ability to inspire future generations of clarinetists has made him an influential figure in the world of music education. His legacy lives on through the students he mentored and the timeless recordings he left behind.
Harold Wright’s impact on the clarinet world remains profound, and his contributions to both the orchestra and the wider musical community are celebrated to this day. His artistry, warmth, and commitment to the clarinet continue to inspire musicians around the world.
12. Eddie Daniels
Eddie Daniels is one of the most versatile clarinetists of his generation, known for his ability to seamlessly move between the worlds of classical music and jazz with equal command. A true virtuoso, Daniels has defied the traditional boundaries of both genres, earning recognition as a pioneering figure in both the classical and jazz worlds. His ability to blend the technical mastery of classical music with the free-spirited improvisation of jazz has made him one of the most unique clarinetists in contemporary music.
Throughout his career, Daniels has collaborated with some of the most prestigious orchestras and jazz ensembles in the world. His recordings have been praised for their depth and emotional range, whether performing the great works of the classical repertoire or engaging in spontaneous improvisations with jazz musicians. His playing is characterized by an unmatched technical facility, a profound sense of phrasing, and an innate ability to bring out the emotional core of every piece he performs.
Eddie Daniels’ work as a composer and arranger has also helped to shape the landscape of contemporary clarinet music, and his willingness to experiment with different styles and techniques has made him a trailblazer. Whether performing in a concert hall or a jazz club, Daniels brings a level of musical sophistication and creativity that has set him apart in both fields. His contributions to the clarinet world have made a lasting impact, and his legacy as a versatile and groundbreaking artist continues to influence new generations of musicians.
13. Stanley Drucker
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SR9oxnm66bY&pp=ygUPU3RhbmxleSBEcnVja2Vy
Stanley Drucker is a name synonymous with excellence in the world of clarinet playing. Having served as the principal clarinetist of the New York Philharmonic for an astounding 60 years, Drucker’s artistry has set a high standard for generations of clarinetists. His career, spanning over six decades, is marked by a rich, expressive tone and a deep commitment to both the classical and contemporary clarinet repertoire. Drucker’s work with the New York Philharmonic has left an indelible mark on the ensemble, as his musicality and virtuosity enhanced its sound, contributing to the orchestra’s international acclaim.
Known for his impeccable technique and ability to convey emotion through every note, Drucker’s playing was always characterized by its clarity, precision, and lyrical depth. Whether performing in the concert hall or in more intimate chamber music settings, Drucker’s sound captivated audiences. His collaborations with renowned conductors, composers, and fellow musicians have led to numerous acclaimed recordings, further solidifying his place as one of the great clarinetists of the 20th and 21st centuries.
In addition to his remarkable performing career, Drucker has also been a dedicated teacher and mentor. Many of his students have gone on to achieve great success in their own careers, and Drucker’s influence continues to resonate within the clarinet community. His pedagogical approach, grounded in a deep understanding of the instrument and musical expression, has made him a revered figure in music education.
Stanley Drucker’s legacy is not only defined by his outstanding performance career but also by his contributions to the broader world of clarinet playing. His impact on the New York Philharmonic, on his students, and on the clarinet community as a whole is immeasurable, and his artistry remains an inspiration to musicians around the world.
14. Anton Stadler
Anton Stadler, often regarded as the father of the modern clarinet, was a pivotal figure in the development of the instrument during the Classical era. Born in the late 18th century in Vienna, Stadler’s close relationship with composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart played a significant role in shaping the future of the clarinet. It was Stadler who inspired Mozart to compose some of the most important works in the clarinet repertoire, including the famous Clarinet Concerto in A Major and the Clarinet Quintet, both of which remain cornerstones of the clarinet canon.
Stadler’s contributions to the clarinet extended beyond his playing. He was instrumental in the development of the instrument itself, working with instrument makers to improve the design and range of the clarinet, allowing for greater expressivity and versatility. His innovations laid the groundwork for future clarinetists, ensuring that the instrument would have a place in both orchestral and solo performances for centuries to come.
Stadler’s playing was known for its rich tone and expressive phrasing, qualities that he brought to life in his performances of Mozart’s clarinet works. His ability to convey the emotional depth of Mozart’s music made him one of the most sought-after clarinetists of his time. His influence on both the clarinet’s technical development and its musical expression cannot be overstated, and his legacy continues to resonate in the performances of modern clarinetists.
Today, Anton Stadler is remembered not only as a virtuoso performer but also as a key figure in the history of the clarinet. His relationship with Mozart and his contributions to the development of the clarinet as an instrument have ensured his place as one of the most important figures in the history of wind instruments.
15. Buddy DeFranco
Buddy DeFranco was a revolutionary force in the world of jazz clarinet, and his contributions to the genre helped redefine the role of the clarinet in modern jazz. As a pioneer in the bebop movement, DeFranco’s virtuosic improvisations and innovative approach to the clarinet set him apart from his contemporaries. His mastery of bebop phrasing and his ability to create complex, fast-paced lines with his clarinet made him one of the most influential figures in jazz history.
DeFranco’s playing was characterized by his technical brilliance and his adventurous spirit. He was known for his rapid improvisations and his ability to push the boundaries of the clarinet, introducing new possibilities for the instrument in the context of jazz. His performances were filled with energy and excitement, and his recordings with jazz legends such as Dizzy Gillespie, Count Basie, and Oscar Peterson are considered some of the most important documents of jazz clarinet playing.
One of DeFranco’s key contributions to jazz was his ability to take the clarinet—an instrument traditionally associated with earlier styles of jazz—and transform it into a powerful voice in the bebop movement. His improvisations often featured intricate harmonic structures and lightning-fast runs, setting a new standard for the clarinet in jazz. DeFranco’s ability to seamlessly blend the technical and expressive aspects of the clarinet with the fast-paced nature of bebop was groundbreaking, and his influence is still felt among modern jazz clarinetists.
Beyond his pioneering work in bebop, DeFranco was a versatile musician who played in a wide variety of settings, from big bands to small ensembles. His legacy as a clarinetist is marked not only by his technical skill and creativity but also by his ability to constantly reinvent the role of the clarinet in jazz music. His adventurous spirit and innovation have ensured that Buddy DeFranco will always be remembered as one of the most important clarinetists in the history of jazz.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
