Mary J
Instruments: Clarinet
Styles: Classical
Mary J
Instruments: Clarinet
Styles:
Classical
Where I Teach:
Ages Taught: 6-80
Bachelor Degree: Northwestern University, Master Degree: University of Missouri Kansas City
The Phoenix Symphony, Substitute Clarinet
Flagstaff Symphony, Second Clarinet
Wichita Symphony, E-Flat Clarinet (2007 - 2013)
Oklahoma City Philharmonic, Second Clarinet (2008 - 2009)
AZ Philharmonic, Second Clarinet
I am an active professional clarinetist and clarinet teacher who loves working with students to find their musical voice. I graduated from Northwestern University in 2006 with a Bachelor of Music degree, and went on to complete my Master of Music degree from University of Missouri - Kansas City in 2008. I've been performing in a variety of orchestras around the country ever since. I perform frequently with the Phoenix Symphony, and hold the 2nd Clarinet position in the Flagstaff Symphony and the Arizona Philharmonic. Before moving to Arizona, I performed with the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, and the Wichita Symphony.
I started teaching clarinet after graduating college, and have been successfully teaching students of all ages and abilities for about 10 years. I have a keen ear for developing your most beautiful sound quality, and enhancing your musicianship through personal expression. My lessons are customized for each player's individual needs, with a strong foundation of the fundamentals. If you're preparing for an audition or recital, want to improve your tone and technique, or you're just starting out, I might be a good fit for you!
For beginning students, I typically start with Rubank's Elementary Method for clarinet. Before diving into more complex musical material, such as the Rose 32 Etudes, I believe it's important to focus on creating a beautiful tone quality and developing clear technique. I will begin to introduce solo repertoire as the student progresses. For more advanced students, I prefer to collaborate to find material that will be artistically fulfilling and appropriately challenging, including orchestra excerpts.
Seeing my students develop as musicians is incredibly rewarding! As a teacher I encourage individual musical growth through a balance of traditional fundamentals and creative artistry and expression. I believe all students learn and process information differently, and I try to cater to their specific learning style. I truly believe anyone can learn to play an instrument with the right tools and encouragement. Therefore, I have always believed that the best students emerge from having a positive teacher who gently challenges the student to grow.
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