Clarinet players, often hailed as the “poets of the woodwind world,” bring forth a rich and versatile voice in the realm of classical and contemporary music. With a distinctive timbre that spans the lyrical and the spirited, clarinetists weave their sonic tapestries across genres and eras. From the dulcet tones of a Mozart concerto to the sultry melodies of jazz, the clarinet’s expressive range finds its muse in the hands of these skilled musicians.
Renowned clarinetists, such as Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, and Sabine Meyer, have left an indelible mark on the instrument’s legacy. Their technical prowess and interpretative brilliance showcase the clarinet’s ability to convey both intricate classical phrasing and the spontaneous improvisations of jazz.
In orchestras, clarinet players often serve as the bridge between the woodwind and brass sections, embodying a unique dual role. Whether delivering soulful solos or seamlessly blending into ensemble passages, clarinetists contribute to the overall warmth and color of the orchestral sound.
Beyond the concert hall, clarinet players embrace diverse musical landscapes, embracing klezmer, folk, and world music. With a symbiotic relationship between player and instrument, clarinetists continue to captivate audiences, pushing the boundaries of their craft and ensuring the clarinet’s enduring allure in the ever-evolving tapestry of global music.
1. Stanley Drucker
Stanley Drucker is an esteemed American clarinetist, widely regarded as one of the most accomplished and enduring musicians in the history of classical music. Born on February 3, 1929, in Brooklyn, New York, Drucker’s illustrious career spans over six decades, during which he made an indelible mark on the world of music.
Drucker served as the principal clarinetist of the New York Philharmonic for an astounding 61 years, making him the longest-tenured player in the orchestra’s history. His exceptional musicianship and technical brilliance were a defining force within the ensemble, contributing to its reputation as one of the world’s premier orchestras.
Renowned for his versatility, Stanley Drucker not only excelled in the orchestral realm but also as a soloist. He performed a vast repertoire, including classical masterpieces, contemporary works, and collaborations with renowned composers. Drucker’s commitment to expanding the clarinet repertoire led to the premieres of numerous compositions.
Beyond his contributions on stage, Drucker was a dedicated teacher, sharing his wealth of knowledge through professorial positions and masterclasses. His influence extends to generations of clarinetists, many of whom have gone on to achieve success in their own right.
Stanley Drucker’s impact on the clarinet world is immeasurable, and his enduring commitment to the art form has left an indelible legacy. Now retired from the New York Philharmonic, his contributions continue to resonate, and he remains an iconic figure in the history of classical music.
2. Jack Brymer
Jack Brymer (1915–2003) was an esteemed English clarinetist, known for his remarkable contributions to classical music and his versatile career spanning orchestral playing, chamber music, and solo performances. Born in South Shields, England, Brymer became one of the leading clarinetists of his generation.
Brymer gained prominence as the principal clarinetist of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and later the London Symphony Orchestra. His rich and warm tone, coupled with impeccable technique, made him a sought-after performer. He played under the batons of renowned conductors and collaborated with distinguished musicians throughout his career.
Apart from his orchestral engagements, Jack Brymer was recognized for his work in chamber music. His collaborations with various chamber ensembles showcased his ability to excel in a variety of musical settings.
Notably, Brymer was a prominent figure in the recording studio, contributing to numerous classical recordings that have stood the test of time. His interpretations of the standard clarinet repertoire, as well as his commitment to contemporary music, earned him acclaim.
In addition to his performing career, Brymer was an influential teacher and author. His book “Clarinet” is considered a valuable resource for clarinetists and musicians interested in the instrument.
Jack Brymer’s legacy endures through his recordings, writings, and the impact he had on the world of classical music, particularly in elevating the status of the clarinet as a solo and ensemble instrument.
3. Martin Frost
Martin Fröst is a Swedish clarinetist, born on November 14, 1970, in Sundsvall, Sweden. He is widely recognized as one of the leading and most innovative clarinetists of his generation. Fröst’s artistry extends beyond traditional classical boundaries, incorporating elements of folk, jazz, and other genres into his performances.
Fröst has earned international acclaim for his virtuosity, expressiveness, and charismatic stage presence. He has collaborated with major orchestras and conductors worldwide, showcasing his versatility and ability to connect with audiences. His interpretations of both classical and contemporary repertoire have been praised for their freshness and musical depth.
In addition to his orchestral engagements, Martin Fröst has a notable career as a soloist and chamber musician. His collaborations with various ensembles and musicians have contributed to the evolution of the clarinet’s role in classical and crossover contexts.
Apart from his performances, Fröst has also explored composition and arrangement. He is known for pushing the boundaries of the clarinet’s capabilities, often experimenting with extended techniques and unconventional performance practices.
Martin Fröst’s commitment to musical innovation, combined with his technical mastery, has solidified his place as a prominent and influential figure in the world of classical music. His contributions have not only enriched the clarinet repertoire but have also inspired a new generation of musicians to explore the expressive possibilities of their instruments.
4. Karl Leister
Karl Leister is a renowned German clarinetist known for his exceptional skill, musicality, and profound contributions to the world of classical music. Born on June 20, 1937, in Wilhelmshaven, Germany, Leister’s illustrious career spans several decades, during which he has left an enduring mark as one of the leading clarinetists of his generation.
Leister served as the principal clarinetist of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra for an impressive 34 years, from 1959 to 1993. His tenure with the Berlin Philharmonic under the baton of Herbert von Karajan showcased not only his technical mastery but also his ability to blend seamlessly within the orchestra’s renowned sound.
In addition to his orchestral career, Karl Leister has gained international acclaim as a soloist and chamber musician. His interpretations of classical repertoire, particularly works by Mozart and Brahms, are celebrated for their clarity, expressive depth, and exquisite phrasing. Leister’s recordings and performances have consistently garnered praise from audiences and critics alike.
As a sought-after teacher, Karl Leister has influenced numerous aspiring clarinetists through his masterclasses and professorial positions. His pedagogical approach emphasizes both technical precision and artistic expression, shaping the next generation of clarinet players.
Karl Leister’s dedication to the clarinet and his profound impact on the classical music world have solidified his place as a legendary figure in the realm of woodwind performance. His legacy continues to inspire musicians worldwide, reflecting the enduring power of his artistry.
5. Larry Combs
Larry Combs is an accomplished American clarinetist known for his distinguished career as a performer and educator. Born on December 5, 1949, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Combs has made significant contributions to the world of classical music, particularly in the realm of the clarinet.
Combs served as the principal clarinetist of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) from 1974 to 2008. His tenure with the CSO, one of the leading orchestras in the world, showcased not only his technical prowess but also his artistry and musical leadership within the ensemble. Combs played a pivotal role in shaping the clarinet section and contributing to the orchestra’s renowned sound under conductors such as Sir Georg Solti.
As a soloist, Larry Combs has performed with various orchestras and in prestigious venues globally. His repertoire spans a wide range of musical styles, from classical to contemporary works, reflecting his versatility as a musician.
In addition to his performing career, Combs has been actively involved in teaching and mentoring. He held teaching positions at several institutions, including the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University and the DePaul University School of Music. His dedication to education has had a lasting impact on numerous clarinet students who have gone on to achieve success in their own careers.
Larry Combs’ legacy is characterized by his excellence as a clarinetist, his contributions to the world of orchestral music, and his influence as an educator. His artistry and commitment continue to inspire aspiring clarinetists and enrich the classical music community.
6. Sabine Meyer
Sabine Meyer is a German clarinetist, born on August 30, 1959, in Crailsheim, Germany. She is widely recognized as one of the foremost clarinet virtuosos of her generation. Meyer’s exceptional talent, versatility, and musicality have earned her acclaim in both classical and contemporary music.
Meyer has had an illustrious career as a soloist, performing with leading orchestras and renowned conductors around the world. Her interpretations of classical repertoire, as well as her commitment to promoting contemporary music, have contributed to the expansion of the clarinet’s role in the concert hall.
Notably, Sabine Meyer was the principal clarinetist of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra from 1982 to 1983, making her the first woman to hold a principal position in the orchestra’s history. She has also been a sought-after chamber musician, collaborating with distinguished ensembles and musicians.
In addition to her performing career, Meyer has made significant contributions to clarinet education. She has taught at institutions such as the Lübeck Academy of Music and the Hochschule für Musik Karlsruhe.
Sabine Meyer’s discography includes a wide range of recordings, showcasing her mastery of both the classical and contemporary repertoire. Her dedication to the clarinet and her impact on the world of classical music have solidified her as a leading figure in the clarinet community.
7. Richard Stoltzman
Richard Stoltzman, born on July 12, 1942, in Omaha, Nebraska, is an acclaimed American clarinetist. With a career spanning several decades, Stoltzman has established himself as a versatile and innovative musician, contributing to both classical and jazz genres.
Stoltzman’s classical career includes performances with major orchestras around the world. He is particularly known for his interpretations of standard clarinet repertoire and his commitment to contemporary music. Stoltzman has premiered works by notable composers and has expanded the clarinet repertoire through his collaborations and commissions.
In addition to his classical pursuits, Richard Stoltzman has been a prominent figure in the world of jazz. He has collaborated with jazz musicians, exploring the intersection between classical and jazz styles. His ability to seamlessly navigate between these genres has made him a unique and influential presence in the music world.
Stoltzman’s discography is extensive, featuring a wide range of recordings that showcase his mastery of various musical styles. His expressive playing, technical prowess, and open-minded approach to music have earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
Throughout his career, Richard Stoltzman has received numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards for his recordings. His contributions to the clarinet world, spanning classical and jazz realms, have left a lasting impact and continue to inspire musicians and audiences alike.
8. Anthony McGill
Anthony McGill is an acclaimed American clarinetist recognized for his virtuosity, expressive playing, and commitment to advancing classical music. Born on November 17, 1979, in Chicago, Illinois, McGill has established himself as a prominent figure in the world of classical music.
McGill made history in 2015 when he became the first African American principal clarinetist of the New York Philharmonic, one of the leading orchestras globally. Prior to his role with the New York Philharmonic, he served as the principal clarinetist of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra.
In addition to his orchestral positions, Anthony McGill is highly regarded as a soloist and chamber musician. His performances are marked by a rich tone, technical precision, and a deep emotional connection to the music. McGill has collaborated with renowned musicians and performed with major orchestras, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and sought-after artist.
Beyond his contributions as a performer, McGill is dedicated to music education and community engagement. He has participated in various educational programs, masterclasses, and initiatives aimed at making classical music accessible to a broader audience.
Anthony McGill gained widespread recognition beyond classical music circles when he performed at the inauguration of President Barack Obama in 2009. His rendition of “Air and Simple Gifts” with Yo-Yo Ma, Itzhak Perlman, and Gabriela Montero showcased his artistry on a global stage.
As a trailblazer in the classical music world, Anthony McGill continues to inspire and contribute to the cultural richness of the art form. His achievements, both as a performer and advocate for music education, have had a lasting impact on the classical music community.
9. Buddy DeFranco
Buddy DeFranco (1923–2014) was an American jazz clarinetist renowned for his technical brilliance, innovative improvisation, and significant contributions to the world of jazz. Born on February 17, 1923, in Camden, New Jersey, his birth name was Boniface Ferdinand Leonardo DeFranco.
DeFranco’s career in jazz spanned several decades, and he became one of the most celebrated and influential clarinetists in the genre. Known for his virtuosic playing and versatility, he played a key role in popularizing the clarinet in the post-swing era of jazz.
Buddy DeFranco collaborated with many jazz luminaries, including Count Basie, Art Tatum, and Ella Fitzgerald. He was at the forefront of the transition from swing to bebop, adapting his style to the changing trends in jazz. His technical command of the clarinet and his ability to articulate intricate and rapid passages set him apart as a master of the instrument.
In addition to his prolific career as a performer, DeFranco also led his own bands and recorded numerous albums as a bandleader. His work, spanning traditional jazz, bebop, and beyond, has left an enduring legacy in the jazz world.
Buddy DeFranco received several honors during his career, including the National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters Award. His impact on the evolution of jazz clarinet and his influence on subsequent generations of musicians make him a significant figure in the history of jazz. Buddy DeFranco passed away on December 24, 2014, leaving behind a rich legacy of musical innovation and artistry.
10. Jimmy Hamilton
Jimmy Hamilton (1917–1994) was an American jazz clarinetist and saxophonist, best known for his significant contributions to the Duke Ellington Orchestra. Born on May 25, 1917, in Dillon, South Carolina, Hamilton played a crucial role in shaping the sound of the Ellington band during one of its most celebrated periods.
Hamilton joined the Duke Ellington Orchestra in 1943, where he initially played the tenor saxophone and later took on the role of the orchestra’s principal clarinetist. His versatile musicianship and distinctive clarinet sound became integral to Ellington’s compositions and arrangements, adding a unique dimension to the orchestra’s sonic palette.
One of Hamilton’s notable contributions was his work on the famous Ellington composition “Take the ‘A’ Train,” where his clarinet playing added a melodic and expressive element to the iconic tune. Hamilton’s ability to seamlessly navigate between the saxophone and clarinet contributed to the dynamic and eclectic nature of the Ellington Orchestra’s repertoire.
Beyond his tenure with Ellington, Jimmy Hamilton also worked with other notable jazz figures, including Cootie Williams and Johnny Hodges. His musicality, improvisational skills, and adaptability allowed him to make significant contributions to various jazz contexts.
Jimmy Hamilton’s legacy endures through his recordings with Duke Ellington and his influence on the jazz clarinet tradition. His expressive and soulful playing remains celebrated among jazz enthusiasts, and his role in the Ellington Orchestra continues to be recognized as a crucial element in the band’s historic sound. Hamilton passed away on September 20, 1994, leaving behind a lasting imprint on the world of jazz.
11. Acker Bilk
Acker Bilk, born Bernard Stanley Bilk on January 28, 1929, in Pensford, Somerset, England, was a renowned English clarinetist and jazz musician. He gained international fame for his distinctive, smooth clarinet playing and was a leading figure in the traditional jazz revival of the late 1950s and early 1960s.
Acker Bilk’s most famous composition is “Stranger on the Shore,” released in 1961. The instrumental piece became a global hit, reaching the top of the charts in the United States and the United Kingdom. Its haunting melody and Bilk’s emotive clarinet playing made it an iconic and recognizable tune.
Known for his goatee, bowler hat, and distinctive appearance, Acker Bilk and his Paramount Jazz Band contributed significantly to the popularity of traditional jazz. His ensemble’s music often featured a Dixieland jazz style, and Bilk’s warm and mellow clarinet sound was a hallmark of their recordings.
Bilk continued to perform and record throughout his career, showcasing his musical versatility and adapting to changing styles. His contributions to the world of jazz, particularly in introducing traditional jazz to a broader audience, earned him a lasting place in the history of the genre.
Acker Bilk passed away on November 2, 2014, but his music, especially “Stranger on the Shore,” remains a timeless and cherished part of the jazz repertoire.
12. Woody Herman
Woody Herman (1913–1987) was a renowned American jazz clarinetist, saxophonist, bandleader, and vocalist, recognized for his influential contributions to the big band and swing music genres. Born on May 16, 1913, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Herman played a pivotal role in the evolution of jazz during the mid-20th century.
Herman’s musical career began in the 1930s, and he gained prominence as the leader of several notable big bands. His first significant success came with the formation of the Woody Herman Orchestra, known as the “The Band That Plays the Blues.” The band went through various stylistic shifts, starting with a swing orientation before transitioning into more progressive and bebop-influenced sounds.
One of Woody Herman’s most famous contributions to jazz is the composition “Four Brothers,” featuring a saxophone section with four tenor saxophonists, including Stan Getz and Zoot Sims. The piece became a jazz standard and showcased Herman’s commitment to innovation within the big band format.
Woody Herman’s bands, often referred to by different names like the Thundering Herd, remained influential throughout the decades, adapting to changing musical trends while consistently featuring top-tier musicians. Herman himself was a versatile performer, known for his energetic clarinet and saxophone playing, as well as his engaging vocal performances.
In recognition of his contributions to jazz, Woody Herman received numerous awards, including the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. His impact on the development of big band music and his ability to adapt to changing musical landscapes have left an enduring legacy in the history of jazz. Woody Herman passed away on October 29, 1987, but his influence continues to resonate in the world of jazz and swing.
13. Sidney Bechet
Sidney Bechet (1897–1959) was a pioneering American jazz clarinetist and saxophonist. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, Bechet was a significant figure in the early development of jazz, particularly in the realm of solo improvisation.
Bechet’s distinctive and virtuosic style set him apart in the jazz world. He was a master of the clarinet and the soprano saxophone, and his technical brilliance and emotional expressiveness left an indelible mark on the music of his time. Bechet was also known for his use of vibrato, a technique more commonly associated with classical musicians.
One of Sidney Bechet’s notable contributions to jazz was his exploration of the clarinet as a lead instrument in jazz ensembles, moving beyond its traditional role in the rhythm section. His improvisational skills were influential, inspiring future generations of jazz musicians.
Bechet played a key role in the early development of jazz in New Orleans, collaborating with other jazz pioneers like Louis Armstrong. Over the course of his career, he performed with various bands in the United States and Europe, leaving an impact on the global jazz scene.
Some of Sidney Bechet’s well-known compositions include “Summertime” and “Petite Fleur.” His influence on jazz continued well after his death, with many musicians citing him as a source of inspiration. Sidney Bechet’s legacy remains an integral part of the rich tapestry of jazz history.
14. Artie Shaw
Artie Shaw (1910–2004) was an American clarinetist, composer, bandleader, and one of the iconic figures of the Big Band era. Born on May 23, 1910, in New York City, Shaw rose to fame in the 1930s and 1940s, leaving an indelible mark on the swing and jazz music scenes.
Known for his technical virtuosity on the clarinet, Shaw led several successful big bands during his career. His innovative and sophisticated approach to music set him apart from his contemporaries. In 1938, Shaw’s recording of “Begin the Beguine” became a massive hit, propelling him to stardom and making the song a classic of the swing era.
Artie Shaw’s bands featured some of the era’s most accomplished musicians, including notable collaborations with vocalists such as Billie Holiday and Helen Forrest. He was also recognized for his adventurous spirit, delving into various styles, including bebop and chamber music, in addition to traditional swing.
Despite his immense success, Shaw was known for his periodic retirements from the music scene, expressing frustration with the commercial aspects of the industry. Nevertheless, he left behind a significant body of work, including compositions like “Frenesi” and “Stardust.”
Artie Shaw’s impact on the world of music is immortalized in his recordings and his influence on the evolution of jazz and swing. His commitment to musical innovation and his exceptional clarinet playing ensure his enduring legacy as one of the legends of the Big Band era. Shaw passed away on December 30, 2004, leaving behind a rich musical legacy that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
15. Benny Goodman
Benny Goodman (1909–1986) was an influential American jazz clarinetist and bandleader known as the “King of Swing.” Born on May 30, 1909, in Chicago, Illinois, Goodman played a pivotal role in popularizing swing music and bringing jazz into the mainstream during the Swing Era of the 1930s and 1940s.
Goodman’s clarinet playing was characterized by its technical brilliance, improvisational skill, and a clean, precise style. He formed his first big band in the mid-1930s, and the Benny Goodman Orchestra quickly gained widespread popularity, becoming one of the most successful and well-known jazz bands of the era.
In 1938, Goodman and his orchestra performed a historic concert at Carnegie Hall in New York City, showcasing the legitimacy of jazz as a serious art form. This event is often considered one of the most important in the history of jazz and helped solidify Goodman’s status as a leading figure in the genre.
Benny Goodman’s band featured some of the finest jazz musicians of the time, including pianist Teddy Wilson, drummer Gene Krupa, and vibraphonist Lionel Hampton. The band broke racial barriers by including African American musicians when segregation was still prevalent in the United States.
Throughout his career, Goodman recorded numerous successful and influential compositions, such as “Sing, Sing, Sing” and “Stompin’ at the Savoy.” His impact on the world of jazz and popular music, as well as his role in breaking racial barriers, has left an enduring legacy. Benny Goodman’s contributions earned him multiple Grammy Awards, and he was posthumously awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1986.