The clarinet, with its rich, expressive tone and wide range, has been an essential part of classical, jazz, and popular music for centuries. Throughout history, numerous talented clarinetists have left an indelible mark on the world of music, captivating audiences with their virtuosity, unique interpretations, and unparalleled musicianship. From the early pioneers of the instrument to the innovative players of the modern era, these musicians have pushed the boundaries of what is possible on the clarinet. In this article, we will explore the top 15 most popular clarinet players of all time, celebrating their extraordinary contributions to the art of clarinet playing and their lasting impact on the world of music.
1. Benny Goodman
Benny Goodman, the American jazz clarinetist, composer, and bandleader, is widely regarded as one of the most influential and popular clarinet players of all time. Known as the “King of Swing,” Goodman’s virtuosic playing style, characterized by his brilliant technique, smooth tone, and innovative improvisations, revolutionized the role of the clarinet in jazz and popular music. His performances and recordings with his big band and smaller ensembles, including the legendary Carnegie Hall concert in 1938, helped to bring swing music to a wider audience and established the clarinet as a leading instrument in jazz. Goodman’s influence extended beyond jazz, as he also commissioned and premiered works by classical composers such as Aaron Copland and Béla Bartók, showcasing the clarinet’s versatility and his own musical range. Throughout his long and successful career, Goodman’s exceptional musicianship, charismatic stage presence, and dedication to his craft earned him numerous accolades and a lasting legacy as one of the greatest clarinetists of all time.
2. Artie Shaw
Artie Shaw, the American jazz clarinetist, composer, and bandleader, is celebrated as one of the most technically gifted and innovative clarinet players of the swing era. With his virtuosic playing style, characterized by his fluid technique, rich tone, and complex improvisations, Shaw brought a new level of sophistication and artistry to the clarinet in jazz. His performances and recordings with his various big bands and smaller ensembles, including his signature hit “Begin the Beguine,” showcased his exceptional musicianship and helped to popularize jazz among a wider audience. Shaw was also known for his musical versatility, exploring various genres such as classical, Latin, and bebop throughout his career. His clarinet playing was marked by a unique blend of technical brilliance and emotional expressiveness, which set him apart from his contemporaries and earned him a reputation as one of the most influential and respected clarinetists of his generation. Despite his relatively short career in music, having retired multiple times to pursue other interests, Artie Shaw’s impact on the art of jazz clarinet playing remains unparalleled, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence clarinetists around the world.
3. Sidney Bechet
Sidney Bechet, the American jazz clarinetist, soprano saxophonist, and composer, is widely regarded as one of the most important and influential figures in the early development of jazz. Known for his powerful, expressive playing style, characterized by his wide vibrato, emotive improvisations, and masterful use of dynamics, Bechet was a true pioneer of the clarinet in jazz. His performances and recordings, both as a soloist and with various bands, including his own, showcased his exceptional musicianship and helped to establish the clarinet as a vital instrument in the New Orleans jazz tradition. Bechet’s influence extended beyond the United States, as he spent many years living and performing in Europe, where he was celebrated as a jazz icon and helped to spread the popularity of jazz internationally. His compositions, such as “Petite Fleur” and “Si Tu Vois Ma Mère,” have become jazz standards and continue to be performed and recorded by musicians around the world. With his unparalleled technical skill, emotive expressiveness, and pioneering spirit, Sidney Bechet’s impact on the art of jazz clarinet playing remains immeasurable, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of clarinetists.
4. Woody Herman
Woody Herman, the American jazz clarinetist, saxophonist, singer, and bandleader, is celebrated as one of the most versatile and influential figures in the history of jazz. Known for his exceptional musicianship, innovative arranging, and dynamic leadership, Herman led his various “Herds” (big bands) for over five decades, consistently producing high-quality music that spanned multiple genres, including swing, bebop, and fusion. As a clarinetist, Herman was known for his warm, expressive tone, fluid technique, and masterful improvisations, which showcased his deep understanding of the instrument and its role in jazz. His performances and recordings, both as a soloist and with his bands, helped to keep the clarinet relevant in the constantly evolving world of jazz and inspired countless young musicians to take up the instrument. Herman was also a champion of new talent, providing a platform for up-and-coming musicians and composers to showcase their skills and gain exposure in the jazz world. Throughout his long and successful career, Woody Herman’s exceptional musicianship, visionary leadership, and dedication to his craft earned him numerous accolades and a lasting legacy as one of the greatest clarinetists and bandleaders in jazz history.
5. Pete Fountain
Pete Fountain, the American jazz clarinetist, was a beloved figure in the New Orleans jazz scene and a master of the traditional jazz clarinet style. Known for his warm, lyrical tone, fluid technique, and joyful improvisations, Fountain’s playing embodied the spirit and essence of New Orleans jazz. His performances and recordings, both as a soloist and with his various bands, including his famous “Half-Fast Walking Club,” showcased his exceptional musicianship and helped to preserve and popularize the traditional jazz clarinet style. Fountain’s influence extended beyond the jazz world, as he made numerous appearances on television shows, such as The Lawrence Welk Show and The Tonight Show, bringing his music to a wider audience and earning him mainstream recognition. Throughout his long and successful career, Fountain remained dedicated to his New Orleans roots, regularly performing at his own club and participating in the city’s famous jazz funerals. With his unparalleled technical skill, infectious joy for music, and commitment to preserving the traditional jazz clarinet style, Pete Fountain’s impact on the art of jazz clarinet playing remains significant, and his legacy continues to inspire and delight music lovers around the world.
6. Eddie Daniels
Eddie Daniels, the American jazz clarinetist and saxophonist, is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished and versatile clarinet players of his generation. Known for his exceptional technical skill, warm, expressive tone, and masterful improvisations, Daniels has made significant contributions to the art of jazz clarinet playing. His performances and recordings, both as a soloist and with various ensembles, showcase his ability to seamlessly blend jazz and classical elements, creating a unique and captivating sound. Daniels’ musical range extends beyond jazz, as he has also collaborated with renowned classical musicians and orchestras, premiering works by composers such as Roger Kellaway and Jorge Callandrelli. His innovative approach to the clarinet has helped to expand the instrument’s repertoire and demonstrate its versatility in both jazz and classical contexts. As an educator, Daniels has taught at prestigious institutions, such as the Manhattan School of Music and the University of Southern California, passing on his knowledge and expertise to future generations of clarinetists. With his unparalleled technical skill, musical versatility, and dedication to pushing the boundaries of the clarinet, Eddie Daniels has earned his place among the most respected and influential clarinetists of his time.
7. Buddy DeFranco
Buddy DeFranco, the American jazz clarinetist, was a pioneering figure in the bebop movement and a master of the modern jazz clarinet style. Known for his lightning-fast technique, complex improvisations, and innovative approach to harmony, DeFranco revolutionized the role of the clarinet in jazz, adapting the instrument to the demands of the bebop era. His performances and recordings, both as a soloist and with various bands, including his own, showcased his exceptional musicianship and helped to establish the clarinet as a viable instrument in modern jazz. DeFranco’s influence extended beyond the jazz world, as he also collaborated with classical musicians and composers, premiering works by the likes of Galt MacDermot and Nelson Riddle. Throughout his long and successful career, DeFranco remained dedicated to pushing the boundaries of the clarinet and exploring new musical territories, consistently demonstrating the instrument’s potential for innovation and expression. As an educator, he taught at various institutions, including the University of Montana, sharing his knowledge and expertise with aspiring clarinetists. With his unparalleled technical skill, musical curiosity, and pioneering spirit, Buddy DeFranco’s impact on the art of jazz clarinet playing remains immeasurable, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of clarinetists.
8. Richard Stoltzman
Richard Stoltzman, the American classical clarinetist, is celebrated as one of the most accomplished and influential clarinet players of his generation. Known for his exceptional technical skill, rich, expressive tone, and interpretive depth, Stoltzman has made significant contributions to the art of classical clarinet playing. His performances and recordings, both as a soloist and with various orchestras and chamber ensembles, showcase his ability to bring new life and meaning to the clarinet repertoire, from the beloved works of Mozart and Brahms to the innovative compositions of contemporary composers. Stoltzman’s musical range extends beyond classical music, as he has also collaborated with jazz and pop musicians, demonstrating the clarinet’s versatility and his own musical curiosity. As a champion of new music, he has commissioned and premiered numerous works by composers such as Steve Reich, Toru Takemitsu, and Lukas Foss, helping to expand the clarinet’s repertoire and push the boundaries of the instrument. As an educator, Stoltzman has taught at prestigious institutions, such as the New England Conservatory and the Eastman School of Music, passing on his knowledge and expertise to future generations of clarinetists. With his unparalleled artistry, musical versatility, and dedication to the art of classical clarinet playing, Richard Stoltzman has earned his place among the most respected and influential clarinetists of his time.
9. Don Byron
Don Byron, the American clarinetist, saxophonist, and composer, is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and eclectic musicians of his generation. Known for his virtuosic technique, genre-defying compositions, and fearless approach to music-making, Byron has made significant contributions to the art of clarinet playing in jazz, classical, and beyond. His performances and recordings, both as a leader and collaborator, showcase his ability to seamlessly blend various musical styles, from jazz and klezmer to classical and avant-garde, creating a unique and captivating sound. Byron’s musical range is truly astonishing, as he has explored a wide array of genres and traditions, always bringing his distinctive voice and vision to each project. As a composer, he has created a diverse body of work that challenges conventional boundaries and expectations, earning him numerous accolades, including a Guggenheim Fellowship and a United States Artist Fellowship. Byron’s influence extends beyond his own music, as he has also been a champion of neglected composers and styles, such as the music of Raymond Scott and Mickey Katz, helping to bring their works to new audiences. As an educator, he has taught at prestigious institutions, such as Columbia University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, inspiring and mentoring future generations of musicians. With his unparalleled artistry, musical fearlessness, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of the clarinet, Don Byron has earned his place among the most innovative and influential clarinetists of his time.
10. Sabine Meyer
Sabine Meyer, the German classical clarinetist, is celebrated as one of the most accomplished and influential clarinet players of her generation. Known for her exceptional technical skill, beautiful tone, and interpretive depth, Meyer has made significant contributions to the art of classical clarinet playing. Her performances and recordings, both as a soloist and with various orchestras and chamber ensembles, showcase her ability to bring new life and meaning to the clarinet repertoire, from the beloved works of Mozart and Weber to the challenging compositions of contemporary composers. As a champion of new music, Meyer has commissioned and premiered numerous works by composers such as Jean Françaix, Peter Eötvös, and Toshio Hosokawa, helping to expand the clarinet’s repertoire and demonstrate the instrument’s versatility. Her musical range extends beyond classical music, as she has also collaborated with jazz and world music artists, showcasing her musical curiosity and openness to diverse influences. As an educator, Meyer has taught at prestigious institutions, such as the Musikhochschule Lübeck and the Sibelius Academy, passing on her knowledge and expertise to future generations of clarinetists. With her unparalleled artistry, musical versatility, and dedication to the art of classical clarinet playing, Sabine Meyer has earned her place among the most respected and influential clarinetists of her time.
11. Martin Fröst
Martin Fröst, the Swedish classical clarinetist, is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and captivating musicians of his generation. Known for his virtuosic technique, expressive playing, and charismatic stage presence, Fröst has made significant contributions to the art of classical clarinet performance. His performances and recordings, both as a soloist and with various orchestras and chamber ensembles, showcase his ability to bring new life and meaning to the clarinet repertoire, from the beloved works of Mozart and Brahms to the cutting-edge compositions of contemporary composers. Fröst’s musical range is truly impressive, as he has explored a wide array of genres and styles, from classical and contemporary to folk and world music, always bringing his distinctive voice and vision to each project. As a champion of new music, he has commissioned and premiered numerous works by composers such as Bent Sørensen, Anders Hillborg, and Karin Rehnqvist, helping to expand the clarinet’s repertoire and push the boundaries of the instrument. Fröst’s influence extends beyond his own music, as he has also been a passionate advocate for music education and outreach, working to inspire and engage new audiences through his innovative programming and multimedia projects. As an educator, he has taught at prestigious institutions, such as the Royal Stockholm Philharmonic Orchestra and the Verbier Festival, mentoring and inspiring future generations of clarinetists. With his unparalleled artistry, musical curiosity, and commitment to pushing the boundaries of classical clarinet performance, Martin Fröst has earned his place among the most innovative and influential clarinetists of his time.
12. Emma Johnson
Emma Johnson, the British classical clarinetist, is celebrated as one of the most accomplished and respected clarinet players of her generation. Known for her beautiful tone, technical brilliance, and interpretive depth, Johnson has made significant contributions to the art of classical clarinet playing. Her performances and recordings, both as a soloist and with various orchestras and chamber ensembles, showcase her ability to bring new life and meaning to the clarinet repertoire, from the beloved works of Mozart and Brahms to the lesser-known gems of British composers. As a champion of British music, Johnson has commissioned and premiered numerous works by composers such as John Dankworth, Will Todd, and Paul Reade, helping to expand the clarinet’s repertoire and celebrate the rich musical heritage of her native country. Her musical range extends beyond classical music, as she has also collaborated with jazz and popular artists, demonstrating her versatility and openness to diverse influences. As an educator, Johnson has taught at prestigious institutions, such as the Royal Academy of Music and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, passing on her knowledge and expertise to future generations of clarinetists. With her unparalleled artistry, musical intelligence, and dedication to the art of classical clarinet playing, Emma Johnson has earned her place among the most respected and influential clarinetists of her time.
13. Sharon Kam
Sharon Kam, the Israeli classical clarinetist, is widely regarded as one of the most talented and expressive clarinet players of her generation. Known for her warm, rich tone, technical finesse, and interpretive depth, Kam has made significant contributions to the art of classical clarinet performance. Her performances and recordings, both as a soloist and with various orchestras and chamber ensembles, showcase her ability to bring new life and meaning to the clarinet repertoire, from the beloved works of Mozart and Weber to the challenging compositions of contemporary composers. As a champion of new music, Kam has commissioned and premiered numerous works by composers such as Krzysztof Penderecki, Chen Yi, and Christian Jost, helping to expand the clarinet’s repertoire and demonstrate the instrument’s versatility. Her musical range extends beyond classical music, as she has also collaborated with jazz and world music artists, showcasing her musical curiosity and openness to diverse influences. As an educator, Kam has taught at prestigious institutions, such as the Escuela Superior de Música Reina Sofía in Madrid and the Barenboim-Said Academy in Berlin, passing on her knowledge and expertise to future generations of clarinetists. With her unparalleled artistry, musical sensitivity, and dedication to the art of classical clarinet playing, Sharon Kam has earned her place among the most respected and influential clarinetists of her time.
14. David Krakauer
David Krakauer, the American clarinetist, composer, and educator, is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and genre-defying musicians of his generation. Known for his virtuosic technique, eclectic repertoire, and electrifying stage presence, Krakauer has made significant contributions to the art of clarinet playing across a wide range of genres, from classical and klezmer to jazz and avant-garde. His performances and recordings, both as a soloist and with various ensembles, showcase his ability to seamlessly blend diverse musical influences, creating a unique and captivating sound that transcends traditional boundaries. Krakauer’s musical range is truly impressive, as he has explored a vast array of styles and traditions, from the classical works of Brahms and Messiaen to the klezmer music of his Eastern European heritage, always bringing his distinctive voice and vision to each project. As a composer, he has created a diverse body of work that reflects his multicultural background and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of the clarinet, earning him numerous accolades and commissions from leading orchestras and festivals around the world. As an educator, Krakauer has taught at prestigious institutions, such as the Manhattan School of Music and the Mannes School of Music, inspiring and mentoring future generations of clarinetists and musicians. With his unparalleled artistry, musical fearlessness, and dedication to expanding the possibilities of the clarinet, David Krakauer has earned his place among the most innovative and influential clarinetists of his time.
15. Michel Portal
Michel Portal, the French clarinetist, saxophonist, and composer, is celebrated as one of the most versatile and influential musicians of his generation. Known for his virtuosic technique, improvisational skills, and genre-defying approach to music-making, Portal has made significant contributions to the art of clarinet playing across a wide range of styles, from classical and contemporary to jazz and experimental. His performances and recordings, both as a leader and collaborator, showcase his ability to seamlessly navigate diverse musical landscapes, always bringing his distinctive voice and vision to each project. Portal’s musical range is truly astonishing, as he has explored a vast array of genres and traditions, from the classical works of Mozart and Debussy to the avant-garde compositions of Karlheinz Stockhausen and Luciano Berio, as well as his own innovative works that defy categorization. As a composer, he has created a diverse body of work that reflects his eclectic musical interests and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of the clarinet and saxophone, earning him numerous accolades and commissions from leading orchestras, festivals, and ensembles around the world. Portal’s influence extends beyond his own music, as he has been a mentor and collaborator to countless musicians across various genres, helping to foster a spirit of creativity, experimentation, and cross-cultural exchange. With his unparalleled artistry, musical versatility, and dedication to expanding the possibilities of the clarinet and saxophone, Michel Portal has earned his place among the most innovative and influential wind players of his time.
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.
