The clarinet, with its rich timbre and versatile range, has enchanted audiences for centuries. In the tapestry of musical history, certain clarinet virtuosos stand out as luminaries, their mastery transcending time and leaving an indelible mark on the art form. Delving into the annals of classical and contemporary music, we embark on a journey to uncover the Top 15 Best Clarinet Players of All Time. From the ethereal melodies of Mozart’s compositions to the sultry jazz tunes of the 20th century, these maestros have elevated the clarinet to unparalleled heights. Each player possesses a unique style, a distinct voice that resonates through the ages, captivating listeners with every note. Their virtuosity extends beyond technical prowess; it embodies emotion, storytelling, and sheer musical brilliance. Through their dedication and innovation, they have shaped the clarinet’s role in the orchestral landscape and beyond, inspiring generations of musicians to push the boundaries of their craft. Join us as we celebrate these extraordinary talents and explore the legacy they’ve etched in the hallowed halls of musical excellence.
1. Stanley Drucker
Stanley Drucker stands as a towering figure in the world of clarinet performance, hailed as one of the most influential and revered clarinetists of all time. With a career spanning over six decades, Drucker’s mastery of the instrument and unparalleled artistry have captivated audiences worldwide. Renowned for his virtuosic technique, rich tone, and profound musical interpretation, he has left an indelible mark on the classical music landscape.
Drucker’s tenure as the principal clarinetist of the New York Philharmonic for an astonishing 60 years solidified his status as a living legend. His performances under the baton of iconic conductors like Leonard Bernstein and Zubin Mehta are legendary, showcasing his ability to bring out the deepest emotions in every note he plays.
Beyond his orchestral achievements, Drucker’s solo career has been equally illustrious, with countless performances, recordings, and accolades to his name. He has premiered numerous works by esteemed composers, further cementing his legacy as a champion of contemporary music.
Drucker’s influence extends far beyond his performances, as he has also dedicated himself to educating future generations of clarinetists. His tenure as a respected teacher and mentor at The Juilliard School has shaped the careers of countless aspiring musicians, ensuring that his legacy will endure for years to come. In sum, Stanley Drucker’s unparalleled talent, dedication, and contribution to the clarinet world make him an indisputable choice as one of the top most popular and best clarinet players of all time.
2. Jack Brymer
Jack Brymer, a luminary in the realm of clarinet performance, holds a revered place among the greatest clarinetists in history. With a career marked by unparalleled skill, profound musicality, and a distinctive, warm tone, Brymer’s influence resonates throughout the classical music world.
As principal clarinetist of the London Symphony Orchestra for over two decades, Brymer showcased his extraordinary talent on some of the world’s most prestigious stages. His performances under renowned conductors like Pierre Monteux and Sir Colin Davis captivated audiences and fellow musicians alike, earning him widespread acclaim.
Brymer’s versatility as a musician extended beyond the orchestral realm, as he was also celebrated as a distinguished soloist and chamber musician. His interpretations of the classical repertoire, characterized by impeccable technique and deep emotional resonance, continue to inspire generations of clarinetists.
In addition to his performances, Brymer was a prolific recording artist, leaving behind a rich legacy of albums that showcase his artistry and mastery of the clarinet. His recordings of works by Mozart, Brahms, and other classical masters remain definitive interpretations cherished by music lovers worldwide.
Beyond his achievements as a performer and recording artist, Brymer was also a dedicated educator, sharing his knowledge and passion for the clarinet with students at the Royal Academy of Music and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.
Jack Brymer’s extraordinary talent, musical integrity, and lasting impact on the clarinet world firmly establish him as one of the top most popular and best clarinet players of all time.
3. Martin Frost
Martin Fröst stands as a modern virtuoso in the realm of clarinet performance, renowned for his dazzling technique, expressive artistry, and innovative approach to music-making. With a career marked by groundbreaking performances and critically acclaimed recordings, Fröst has firmly established himself as one of the foremost clarinetists of his generation.
As a soloist, Fröst has graced the stages of the world’s leading concert halls, captivating audiences with his mesmerizing interpretations and dynamic stage presence. His ability to seamlessly traverse musical genres, from classical masterpieces to contemporary compositions, demonstrates his versatility and artistic depth.
Fröst’s collaborations with leading orchestras and conductors have yielded electrifying performances that push the boundaries of the clarinet repertoire. His interpretations of works by composers such as Mozart, Weber, and Copland are characterized by their technical brilliance and emotional resonance, earning him widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike.
In addition to his prowess as a performer, Fröst is a passionate advocate for expanding the boundaries of clarinet music. He has premiered numerous works by contemporary composers, pushing the instrument into new sonic territory and inspiring composers to explore its full potential.
Beyond his achievements on stage, Fröst is also committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians through his work as a teacher and mentor. His masterclasses and educational initiatives have empowered countless young clarinetists to unlock their full potential and pursue excellence in their craft.
Martin Fröst’s extraordinary talent, innovative spirit, and profound impact on the clarinet world make him a deserving addition to the ranks of the top most popular and best clarinet players of all time.
4. Karl Leister
Karl Leister, a luminary in the world of clarinet performance, is celebrated for his exceptional artistry, technical brilliance, and profound musical insight. Throughout his illustrious career, Leister has left an indelible mark on the classical music landscape, earning him a place among the greatest clarinetists of all time.
As the principal clarinetist of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra for over three decades, Leister’s exquisite playing was the cornerstone of the orchestra’s renowned sound. His performances under the baton of legendary conductors such as Herbert von Karajan and Claudio Abbado were characterized by their precision, clarity, and emotional depth, captivating audiences worldwide.
In addition to his orchestral achievements, Leister enjoyed a prolific solo career, dazzling audiences with his virtuosic technique and sublime musicality. His interpretations of the clarinet repertoire, from Mozart and Weber to contemporary composers, are revered for their elegance, sensitivity, and unparalleled artistry.
Leister’s influence extends far beyond his performances, as he has dedicated himself to educating and inspiring future generations of clarinetists. His tenure as a professor at the Hochschule für Musik “Hanns Eisler” in Berlin and masterclasses around the world have shaped the careers of countless aspiring musicians, ensuring that his legacy will endure for years to come.
Karl Leister’s extraordinary talent, profound musicianship, and lasting impact on the clarinet world firmly establish him as one of the top most popular and best clarinet players of all time.s
5. Larry Combs
Larry Combs, a distinguished figure in the clarinet world, is revered for his exceptional musicianship, technical prowess, and versatility as a performer. With a career spanning over four decades, Combs has left an indelible mark on the classical music scene, earning him a place among the top most popular and best clarinet players of all time.
As the principal clarinetist of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra for an impressive 30 years, Combs’s playing was characterized by its warmth, clarity, and impeccable phrasing. His contributions to the orchestra under the baton of esteemed conductors like Sir Georg Solti and Daniel Barenboim helped shape its legendary sound and solidified his reputation as one of the finest clarinetists of his generation.
Beyond his orchestral career, Combs enjoyed a successful solo and chamber music career, captivating audiences with his expressive interpretations and technical brilliance. His recordings of the clarinet repertoire, ranging from Mozart and Brahms to contemporary works, are cherished by music lovers worldwide for their artistry and musical depth.
Combs’s dedication to music education and mentorship has also had a profound impact on the clarinet community. As a sought-after teacher and clinician, he has inspired countless students to strive for excellence in their musical endeavors, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond his own performances.
Larry Combs’s extraordinary talent, musical integrity, and lasting contributions to the clarinet world make him a true icon and a worthy inclusion among the top most popular and best clarinet players of all time.
6. Sabine Meyer
Sabine Meyer stands as a luminary in the world of clarinet performance, revered for her remarkable virtuosity, expressive depth, and unparalleled musicianship. With a career spanning several decades, Meyer has established herself as one of the preeminent clarinetists of her generation, earning international acclaim and admiration.
As a soloist, Meyer has graced the stages of the world’s leading concert halls, captivating audiences with her exquisite tone, technical precision, and emotive interpretations. Her performances of the clarinet repertoire, from classical masterpieces to contemporary works, are marked by their sensitivity, nuance, and captivating stage presence.
Meyer’s versatility as a musician extends beyond the realm of solo performance, as she is also celebrated for her work as a chamber musician and orchestral player. Her collaborations with renowned ensembles and musicians have yielded memorable performances that showcase her collaborative spirit and musical artistry.
In addition to her performing career, Meyer is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of musicians through her work as a teacher and mentor. Her masterclasses and educational initiatives inspire and empower aspiring clarinetists around the world, ensuring that her legacy will endure for years to come.
Sabine Meyer’s extraordinary talent, artistic integrity, and profound impact on the clarinet world firmly establish her as one of the top most popular and best clarinet players of all time. Her contributions to the art of clarinet playing continue to inspire and resonate with audiences and musicians alike, cementing her status as a true icon of the instrument.
7. Richard Stoltzman
Richard Stoltzman is an iconic figure in the world of clarinet performance, celebrated for his unparalleled artistry, technical mastery, and boundless creativity. Throughout his illustrious career, Stoltzman has captivated audiences worldwide with his mesmerizing interpretations and dynamic performances, earning him a place among the top most popular and best clarinet players of all time.
As a soloist, Stoltzman has performed with leading orchestras around the globe, showcasing his exceptional virtuosity and musical sensitivity. His interpretations of the clarinet repertoire, ranging from classical standards to contemporary works, are renowned for their depth of expression, exquisite phrasing, and electrifying stage presence.
Stoltzman’s versatility as a musician extends beyond the classical realm, as he has embraced jazz, world music, and crossover genres with equal passion and flair. His collaborations with jazz legends like Woody Herman and Chick Corea have garnered critical acclaim and introduced the clarinet to new audiences, showcasing his improvisational prowess and genre-defying versatility.
In addition to his performing career, Stoltzman is committed to music education and outreach, inspiring countless students and aspiring musicians through his workshops, masterclasses, and educational initiatives. His dedication to nurturing the next generation of clarinetists reflects his belief in the transformative power of music and ensures that his legacy will endure for generations to come.
Richard Stoltzman’s extraordinary talent, innovative spirit, and profound impact on the clarinet world make him a true icon and a fitting addition to the ranks of the top most popular and best clarinet players of all time. His contributions to the art of clarinet playing continue to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide, cementing his status as a legendary figure in the world of music.
8. Anthony McGill
Anthony McGill stands as a beacon of excellence in the world of clarinet performance, celebrated for his exceptional talent, versatility, and commitment to musical expression. As principal clarinetist of the New York Philharmonic, McGill has dazzled audiences with his virtuosic playing and heartfelt interpretations, earning him widespread acclaim and recognition as one of the top most popular and best clarinet players of his generation.
McGill’s performances are characterized by their impeccable technique, rich tone, and profound musicality, making him a sought-after soloist and chamber musician on stages around the world. His interpretations of the clarinet repertoire, from classical masterpieces to contemporary works, are marked by their sensitivity, nuance, and captivating stage presence, captivating audiences and critics alike.
In addition to his role with the New York Philharmonic, McGill is a passionate advocate for music education and outreach, dedicating himself to inspiring the next generation of musicians. Through his work with organizations like the Sphinx Organization and the Music Advancement Program at Juilliard, McGill has empowered young artists from diverse backgrounds to pursue their musical dreams, ensuring that his impact on the clarinet community extends far beyond his performances on stage.
McGill’s extraordinary talent, artistic integrity, and dedication to musical excellence have solidified his place as a true luminary in the clarinet world. His contributions to the art of clarinet playing continue to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the world of music.
9. Buddy DeFranco
Buddy DeFranco, an iconic figure in the history of jazz clarinet, is celebrated for his unparalleled virtuosity, innovative improvisational style, and enduring influence on the genre. With a career spanning over seven decades, DeFranco left an indelible mark on the world of jazz, earning him a place among the top most popular and best clarinet players of all time.
DeFranco’s mastery of the instrument was characterized by his effortless technique, impeccable phrasing, and soulful expression, making him a revered soloist and ensemble player. His improvisations were marked by their creativity, harmonic sophistication, and ability to seamlessly blend elements of swing, bebop, and classical music, earning him accolades from audiences and fellow musicians alike.
As a bandleader, DeFranco led several acclaimed ensembles, showcasing his dynamic leadership and innovative approach to arranging and performance. His recordings with groups like the Metronome All-Stars and his own quartets and quintets are cherished for their energy, creativity, and timeless musicality.
Beyond his achievements as a performer and bandleader, DeFranco was also a dedicated educator, sharing his knowledge and passion for jazz with students around the world. His masterclasses, workshops, and educational initiatives inspired countless aspiring musicians to pursue excellence in their craft, ensuring that his legacy would endure for generations to come.
Buddy DeFranco’s extraordinary talent, pioneering spirit, and lasting impact on the world of jazz clarinet firmly establish him as one of the greatest and most influential clarinet players of all time. His contributions to the art form continue to inspire and resonate with audiences and musicians worldwide, cementing his status as a true jazz legend.
10. Jimmy Hamilton
Jimmy Hamilton, a luminary in the realm of jazz clarinet, remains one of the most influential and beloved figures in the genre’s history. Renowned for his distinctive sound, impeccable technique, and soulful improvisations, Hamilton’s contributions to jazz music have earned him a place among the top most popular and best clarinet players of all time.
As a key member of the Duke Ellington Orchestra for over two decades, Hamilton’s velvety tone and melodic phrasing became synonymous with the band’s signature sound. His solos, characterized by their lyrical beauty and inventive improvisation, were highlights of countless Ellington recordings and live performances, earning him acclaim from audiences and fellow musicians alike.
Hamilton’s versatility as a musician extended beyond his work with Ellington, as he was also an accomplished composer, arranger, and bandleader in his own right. His recordings as a leader, including albums like “Can’t Help Swingin'” and “It’s About Time,” showcase his talent for blending swing, blues, and bebop influences into captivating musical expressions.
In addition to his contributions as a performer and bandleader, Hamilton was admired for his generosity and mentorship within the jazz community. His willingness to share his knowledge and experience with younger musicians helped shape the next generation of jazz clarinetists, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire aspiring artists to this day.
Jimmy Hamilton’s remarkable talent, musical integrity, and enduring impact on the world of jazz clarinet firmly establish him as one of the greatest and most beloved clarinet players of all time. His contributions to the art form continue to resonate with audiences and musicians around the world, ensuring that his legacy will endure for generations to come.
11. Acker Bilk
Acker Bilk, a beloved and iconic figure in the world of jazz and traditional jazz, left an indelible mark with his soulful clarinet playing and signature sound. Born Bernard Stanley Bilk in 1929, he adopted the nickname “Acker” from the Somerset dialect, meaning “friend” or “mate,” which reflected his warm and approachable personality.
Bilk rose to prominence in the late 1950s and early 1960s with his band, the Paramount Jazz Band, and later with his ensemble, the Acker Bilk and His Paramount Jazz Band. Their blend of traditional jazz, blues, and skiffle resonated with audiences, propelling them to international fame.
One of Bilk’s most enduring hits was “Stranger on the Shore,” released in 1961. The haunting melody, featuring Bilk’s clarinet prominently, topped the charts in both the UK and the US, becoming one of the best-selling instrumental singles of all time. Its success brought traditional jazz to a wider audience and solidified Bilk’s status as a household name.
Bilk’s distinctive style, characterized by his rich tone, expressive vibrato, and emotive phrasing, endeared him to fans around the world. His performances exuded a sense of nostalgia and warmth, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the evocative world of traditional jazz.
Beyond his musical contributions, Bilk’s affable personality and genuine love for his craft endeared him to audiences and fellow musicians alike. He remained active in the music scene until his passing in 2014, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of jazz enthusiasts.
Acker Bilk’s remarkable talent, timeless melodies, and enduring influence firmly establish him as one of the most popular and best clarinet players of all time. His contributions to jazz music have left an indelible mark, ensuring that his music will be cherished for years to come.
12. Woody Herman
Woody Herman, affectionately known as “The Woodchopper” and “Herr Schaft,” was a towering figure in the world of jazz, revered for his dynamic leadership, innovative arrangements, and virtuosic clarinet playing. Born in 1913, Herman’s career spanned several decades and left an indelible mark on the jazz landscape, earning him a place among the top most popular and best clarinet players of all time.
Herman’s musical journey began in the swing era, where he rose to prominence as the leader of various big bands bearing his name, including the famous “Herd.” His bands were renowned for their tight ensemble playing, inventive arrangements, and electrifying performances, which often featured Herman’s clarinet prowess as a centerpiece.
As a clarinetist, Herman possessed a distinctive and expressive tone that set him apart from his contemporaries. His solos were marked by their technical brilliance, inventive phrasing, and infectious energy, earning him acclaim from audiences and fellow musicians alike.
One of Herman’s most iconic recordings is “Four Brothers,” featuring a saxophone section known as the “Four Brothers” (including Stan Getz), which showcased Herman’s innovative approach to ensemble playing and his ability to blend different musical styles seamlessly.
Herman’s career was characterized by a restless spirit of innovation, as he continually pushed the boundaries of jazz and embraced new musical trends. From swing to bebop, cool jazz to fusion, Herman’s bands remained at the forefront of the jazz world, adapting to changing tastes while staying true to their distinctive sound.
Beyond his musical contributions, Herman was revered for his mentorship of younger musicians, many of whom went on to achieve great success in their own right. His legacy lives on not only in his recordings but also in the countless artists he inspired and influenced throughout his storied career.
Woody Herman’s extraordinary talent, dynamic leadership, and lasting impact on the world of jazz firmly establish him as one of the greatest and most influential clarinet players of all time. His contributions to jazz music continue to resonate with audiences and musicians worldwide, ensuring that his legacy will endure for generations to come.
13. Sidney Bechet
Sidney Bechet, a towering figure in the history of jazz, was a virtuoso clarinetist and saxophonist whose innovative playing and charismatic personality left an indelible mark on the genre. Born in New Orleans in 1897, Bechet was a pivotal figure in the development of jazz, known for his expressive style, improvisational genius, and pioneering use of vibrato.
Bechet’s early years in New Orleans exposed him to the rich tapestry of musical influences that would shape his unique sound. He drew inspiration from the blues, spirituals, and traditional Creole music of his hometown, infusing his playing with a deep sense of emotion and rhythm.
As a clarinetist, Bechet possessed a powerful and soulful tone that captivated audiences and fellow musicians alike. His improvisations were characterized by their melodic inventiveness, technical brilliance, and fearless exploration of the outer limits of harmony and rhythm.
One of Bechet’s most enduring contributions to jazz was his mastery of the soprano saxophone, an instrument he helped popularize in jazz during the 1920s and 1930s. His recordings on soprano saxophone, such as “Summertime” and “Blue Horizon,” showcased his unparalleled skill and set a new standard for saxophone playing in jazz.
Bechet’s influence extended far beyond his instrumental prowess; he was also a charismatic bandleader and composer whose compositions, including “Petite Fleur” and “Si Tu Vois Ma Mère,” became jazz standards beloved by musicians and audiences worldwide.
Throughout his storied career, Bechet remained a passionate advocate for jazz as an art form and a way of life. His performances, recordings, and larger-than-life persona inspired generations of musicians and helped shape the trajectory of jazz in the 20th century and beyond.
Sidney Bechet’s extraordinary talent, pioneering spirit, and lasting impact on the world of jazz firmly establish him as one of the greatest and most influential clarinet players of all time. His contributions to jazz music continue to resonate with audiences and musicians worldwide, ensuring that his legacy will endure for generations to come.
14. Artie Shaw
Artie Shaw, a virtuoso clarinetist and bandleader, remains a towering figure in the history of jazz and swing music. Born in 1910, Shaw’s career spanned several decades and left an indelible mark on the genre, earning him a place among the top most popular and best clarinet players of all time.
Shaw’s clarinet playing was characterized by its technical brilliance, lyrical beauty, and improvisational daring. His mastery of the instrument allowed him to navigate complex melodies with ease, while his expressive phrasing and dynamic range captivated audiences and fellow musicians alike.
As a bandleader, Shaw led one of the most popular and innovative orchestras of the swing era. His recordings with the Artie Shaw Orchestra, including hits like “Begin the Beguine,” “Stardust,” and “Frenesi,” showcased his talent for arranging and his ability to blend elements of jazz, classical, and popular music into a seamless and captivating sound.
Shaw’s contributions to jazz went beyond his instrumental prowess; he was also a trailblazer in the fight against racial segregation in the music industry. He was one of the first white bandleaders to hire black musicians on a regular basis, including such jazz luminaries as Billie Holiday, Roy Eldridge, and Dizzy Gillespie, at a time when racial barriers were still firmly in place.
Despite his immense success as a musician, Shaw was known for his restless spirit and his frequent retirements from the music business. He often chafed against the commercial pressures of the industry and the constraints of fame, preferring to pursue other interests such as writing and aviation.
Artie Shaw’s extraordinary talent, innovative spirit, and lasting impact on the world of jazz firmly establish him as one of the greatest and most influential clarinet players of all time. His contributions to jazz music continue to resonate with audiences and musicians worldwide, ensuring that his legacy will endure for generations to come.
15. Benny Goodman
Benny Goodman, known as the “King of Swing,” stands as one of the most influential and iconic figures in the history of jazz and clarinet performance. Born in 1909, Goodman’s pioneering contributions to the swing era revolutionized jazz and popular music, earning him a place among the top most popular and best clarinet players of all time.
Goodman’s clarinet playing was characterized by its technical virtuosity, infectious energy, and unparalleled improvisational skill. His smooth tone and effortless command of the instrument set a new standard for clarinetists and inspired countless musicians to pick up the instrument.
As a bandleader, Goodman led one of the most successful and groundbreaking orchestras of the swing era. The Benny Goodman Orchestra, featuring legendary musicians such as Gene Krupa, Teddy Wilson, and Lionel Hampton, became synonymous with the sound of swing and produced a string of hit recordings that dominated the airwaves and dance halls of the 1930s and 1940s.
Goodman’s famous Carnegie Hall concert in 1938, often hailed as one of the most important events in the history of jazz, brought jazz music to a wider audience and helped elevate its status as a legitimate art form. The concert’s success paved the way for jazz to be recognized as a sophisticated and influential genre of music, earning Goodman a lasting place in the annals of music history.
Beyond his achievements as a bandleader and clarinetist, Goodman was also a tireless advocate for racial integration in the music industry. He was one of the first white bandleaders to feature black musicians in his ensemble, including such jazz luminaries as Charlie Christian and Lionel Hampton, at a time when racial segregation was still widespread.
Benny Goodman’s extraordinary talent, groundbreaking innovations, and lasting impact on the world of jazz firmly establish him as one of the greatest and most influential clarinet players of all time. His contributions to jazz music continue to inspire and resonate with audiences and musicians worldwide, ensuring that his legacy will endure for generations to come.