The Greatest Clarinetists of All Time
A true virtuoso, Artie Shaw was an innovative, daring, and relentlessly inventive force in the world of jazz. His flawless technique and rich tone set him apart from his contemporaries, while his willingness to explore uncharted territory – blending traditional jazz with classical and world music influences – resulted in some of the most memorable recordings in the history of the genre. With a career spanning seven decades, Shaw pushed the limits of the instrument, embracing lush arrangements, complex harmonies, and unusual time signatures to mold the clarinet into an expressive instrument that could hold its own in any ensemble. His 1938 recording of "Begin the Beguine" remains a towering achievement, showcasing his supreme skill as a soloist and his forward-thinking approach to arranging and composition.
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Widely known as the "King of Swing," Benny Goodman's brilliant technique, impeccable taste, and willingness to break racial barriers during the Big Band Era made him one of the most influential clarinetists in history. His incredible range of styles – from classical music to jazz and popular tunes – showcased his versatility as a musician and set a new standard for generations of performers to follow. As the first bandleader to integrate African American musicians into his band, Goodman played a vital role in ending segregation in the world of jazz. His 1938 concert at Carnegie Hall remains a landmark event, proving that both jazz and the clarinet could be appreciated by audiences beyond the dance hall and foreshadowing the eventual rise of bebop.
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Martin Fröst
Hailed as one of the world's greatest clarinetists, the Swedish-born Martin Fröst has continually expanded the possibilities of the instrument through his performances and compositions. Drawing inspiration not only from classical and contemporary music but also from jazz, folk, and electronic genres, Fröst has made it his mission to redefine what the clarinet can be – both as a solo instrument and within an ensemble. His daring collaborations with musicians from diverse backgrounds and his use of innovative digital effects have set him apart as a true trailblazer in the world of music. Moreover, his charismatic stage presence and focus on theatrical elements bring a fresh excitement to classical performance, ensuring that the clarinet will continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.
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Sabine Meyer
A true ambassador for the clarinet, the German-born Sabine Meyer has consistently defied expectations throughout her career, becoming one of the greatest clarinetists of her generation. Her pioneering work as the first woman to join the prestigious Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra set a new precedent, paving the way for other female musicians in the traditionally male-dominated world of classical music. Meyer's deep passion for the instrument is evident in her stunning performances, which are characterized by a rich, velvety tone, impeccable technique, and a unique sense of musicality that allows her to cross genres effortlessly. With countless recordings and collaborations to her name, Sabine Meyer exemplifies the tireless dedication and artistic excellence that distinguish truly remarkable clarinetists.
With a career spanning over six decades, Pete Fountain truly epitomized the spirit and sound of New Orleans jazz, becoming one of the most beloved and gifted clarinetists of all time. Renowned for his warm, distinctive tone, and effortlessly smooth technique, Fountain's playful phrasing and unmistakable swing made him a bona fide master of the instrument. His talent for blending traditional jazz with contemporary popular music earned him widespread acclaim and allowed the clarinet to resonate with new generations of listeners. Having performed with greats like Lawrence Welk and Al Hirt, while maintaining an enduring presence on Bourbon Street, Pete Fountain's legacy leaves an indelible mark on the world of jazz and the clarinet.
Considered one of the foremost orchestral clarinetists of the 20th century, Robert Marcellus' incredible artistry and dedication to technical perfection left a lasting impact on both the classical music world and those fortunate enough to study under his tutelage. As principal clarinetist of the Cleveland Orchestra for over two decades, Marcellus set the standard for orchestral clarinet playing in the United States, displaying an unparalleled purity of tone and impeccable intonation. His legendary recordings of major clarinet works, such as Mozart's Clarinet Concerto and Brahms' Clarinet Quintet, showcase his extraordinary musicianship and command of the instrument. With a lasting influence on countless students and admirers, Robert Marcellus remains a luminary figure in the realm of classical clarinet playing.
A virtuoso performer hailing from a long line of musical masters, Turkish-born Hüsnü Şenlendirici has firmly established himself as one of the world's greatest clarinetists, consistently pushing the boundaries of traditional music. Şenlendirici's work primarily focuses on the gypsy and folk music of Turkey, yet his unmistakable skill and innovative approach have enabled him to transcend genres as he transforms the clarinet into a kaleidoscope of textures and emotions. Collaborating with renowned musicians from around the globe, Şenlendirici's intuitive ability to fuse traditional sounds with contemporary world music has made him a trailblazer in his field. His unique blend of virtuosic technique and deeply evocative playing brings a fresh vision to the world of the clarinet, ensuring his place among the all-time greats.
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Karl Leister
With a career spanning six decades, German clarinetist Karl Leister has become an indisputable force within the world of classical music, earning a place among the greatest clarinetists of all time. As a former principal clarinetist of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, Leister's phenomenal technique, warm, lush tone, and deep sensitivity to different musical styles made him an essential member of one of the world's leading orchestras for decades. His insightful interpretations of the core clarinet repertoire have served as an inspiration to countless musicians, while his extensive discography – particularly his masterful renditions of Mozart and Brahms – serves as a testament to his exceptional musicianship. Now sharing his wisdom through masterclasses and teaching, Karl Leister continues to impact the world of the clarinet.
A legendary figure in the world of jazz, Woody Herman was a pioneering bandleader, vocalist, and clarinetist whose career spanned more than 50 years. Known for his bold, dynamic sound and innovative arrangements, Herman led some of the most groundbreaking big bands of the swing era, such as his famous "Herd" ensembles. With a keen ear for talent, Herman's bands featured many future jazz stars, including Stan Getz, Zoot Sims, and Pete Candoli, ensuring that his ensembles were always on the cutting edge of musical innovation. As a clarinetist, Herman possessed a distinctive tone and style that set him apart from his contemporaries, securing his legacy as one of the greatest musicians and bandleaders of his time.
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Often hailed as the first great jazz soloist, Sidney Bechet's pioneering work on both the clarinet and soprano saxophone made him an iconic figure in the early history of jazz. With an intensely passionate, bluesy playing style and a vibrato-infused tone, Bechet's improvisational prowess was unmatched by many of his contemporaries and served as a major influence on future generations of musicians. His innovative techniques, particularly his use of unusual scales and arpeggios, helped shape the development of jazz as an art form, extending far beyond his primary instruments' traditional boundaries. Through his extensive recording career and indomitable spirit, Sidney Bechet secured his legacy as one of the all-time great clarinetists.
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An exceptionally versatile musician and virtuoso, Eddie Daniels has earned a reputation as one of the greatest clarinetists and saxophonists of his era. Initially making his mark as a tenor saxophonist with the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra, Daniels later shifted his focus to the clarinet, showcasing an extraordinary technique and exquisite tone that drew praise from both the classical and jazz worlds. His ability to fluidly move between genres – from performing orchestral masterpieces to blazing bebop solos – sets him apart from many of his contemporaries. With countless recordings, awards, and collaborations with legends like Leonard Bernstein and Freddie Hubbard, Eddie Daniels continues to solidify his place among the all-time greats of the clarinet.
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Acker Bilk
Gathering an international following with his mastery of the clarinet, British musician Acker Bilk became one of the most recognizable artists in the early 1960s' "trad jazz" movement. Known for his unique vibrato-laden tone, Bilk effortlessly blended traditional jazz, pop, and folk music, making his sound instantly recognizable to both fans and critics alike. His chart-topping ballad, "Stranger on the Shore," remains a landmark in both popular music and clarinet performance, as it demonstrated how a simple yet evocative melody could capture the hearts of millions. Through his remarkable skills as an instrumentalist and his ability to connect with audiences, Acker Bilk left an indelible mark on the world of music and the clarinet.
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As one of the few clarinetists to successfully transition from the swing era to the bebop movement, Buddy DeFranco's remarkable talent, technical mastery, and constant dedication to innovation placed him among the greatest clarinetists of all time. DeFranco's exceptional command of the instrument enabled him to tackle the complex harmonies and rhythms of bebop with ease, while his rich tone and agile phrasing made his playing universally appealing. Collaborating with musical giants such as Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie, DeFranco helped elevate the clarinet's status within the jazz world during a period when the instrument was often overshadowed by the saxophone and trumpet. With over 150 albums to his name and numerous awards, Buddy DeFranco's contributions to the clarinet and jazz music remain unparalleled.
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In a career spanning over five decades, American clarinetist Richard Stoltzman has blazed new trails in both classical and contemporary music, firmly establishing himself among the greatest clarinetists of his generation. Known for his enchanting tone, superb technique, and innovative approach to repertoire, Stoltzman has consistently defied expectations, pushing the boundaries of the instrument through collaborations with composers, orchestras, and ensembles from around the world. His groundbreaking work as a soloist and recording artist has earned him numerous awards, including two Grammy Awards for his masterful interpretations of Brahms, Mozart, and other significant works. As a pioneer in the world of chamber music and an advocate for new compositions, Richard Stoltzman continues to inspire audiences and musicians alike with his artistry and vision.
With a remarkable tenure as the principal clarinetist of the New York Philharmonic for more than six decades, Stanley Drucker easily ranks among the greatest clarinetists of all time. Throughout his illustrious career, Drucker has consistently demonstrated exceptional musicianship, technical prowess, and a deep understanding of the instrument's capabilities. His legendary performances of concertos by Copland, Nielsen, and other major composers have left an indelible mark on the clarinet repertoire, inspiring countless musicians to follow in his footsteps. Now sharing his expertise through masterclasses and teaching, Stanley Drucker's influence continues to shape the future of clarinet playing for generations to come.
Heralded as one of the foremost clarinetists of her generation, Israeli-born Sharon Kam has carved out a distinguished career as a soloist and chamber musician, captivating audiences around the globe with her passionate performances and exceptional talent. Known for her warm, rich tone and flawless technique, Kam's insightful interpretations of both the standard repertoire and new commissions allow her to bridge the gap between tradition and innovation with her clarinet playing. Her numerous recordings and collaborations with leading orchestras and ensembles offer a testament to her lasting impact on the world of classical music. Sharon Kam's unwavering commitment to artistry and her ability to communicate the beauty and power of the clarinet continue to inspire audiences and fellow musicians alike.
Emerging from the early days of jazz in New Orleans, Johnny Dodds was hailed as one of the first great clarinetists of the genre, leaving a lasting impact on both the instrument and the music itself. Known for his distinctive, bluesy sound and heartfelt improvisational style, Dodds captivated audiences and fellow musicians alike with his soulful performances as a member of King Oliver's Creole Jazz Band and later, the Louis Armstrong Hot Five and Hot Seven ensembles. His ability to translate the complex emotions of the blues into stirring solos on the clarinet paved the way for future performers to explore the instrument's full range of expressive capabilities. In an era marked by rapid change and innovation, Johnny Dodds' pioneering work on the clarinet remains an enduring testament to his talent and vision.
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Anton Stadler
A key figure in the history of the clarinet, Austrian musician Anton Stadler was not only an accomplished performer but also an inspiration for one of the greatest composers of all time, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Serving as the principal clarinetist of the Imperial Court Orchestra in Vienna, Stadler was known for his extraordinary technique and deeply emotive playing, which captivated audiences and fellow musicians alike. His close friendship with Mozart led to the creation of some of the most beloved works in the clarinet repertoire, including the sublime Clarinet Concerto and the Clarinet Quintet. Through these timeless masterpieces and his own pioneering work on the instrument, Anton Stadler's influence can still be felt in the world of classical music today.
A versatile and hugely talented musician, American clarinetist and saxophonist Ken Peplowski has enjoyed a distinguished career as one of the most successful and sought-after performers in jazz today. Lauded for his smooth technique, emotive playing, and exceptional ability to connect with audiences, Peplowski has earned widespread recognition for his work both as a soloist and alongside such legendary figures as Benny Goodman, Mel Tormé, and Rosemary Clooney. His deep understanding of the instrument and the various genres he explores, combined with his natural wit and storytelling talents, make him a unique and captivating presence on the stage. With his dedication to maintaining the traditions of jazz and clarinet playing, Ken Peplowski continues to prove himself as one of the greats of the instrument.
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Heinrich Baermann
Widely regarded as one of the founding fathers of the modern clarinet, German musician Heinrich Baermann played a pivotal role in the development of the instrument during the early 19th century. As a virtuoso performer and dedicated innovator, Baermann contributed significantly to the refinement of the clarinet's design and mechanics, making it more versatile and expressive than ever before. His close collaborations with prominent composers, such as Carl Maria von Weber and Felix Mendelssohn, resulted in the creation of groundbreaking new repertoire for the instrument, paving the way for the rich legacy of clarinet music that followed. Through his technical and artistic achievements, Heinrich Baermann's influence can still be felt in the world of clarinet playing today.
One of the brightest young stars in the world of classical music, British clarinetist Julian Bliss has consistently defied expectations throughout his career, establishing himself as a versatile performer and passionate advocate of the instrument. Applauded for his extraordinary technical wizardry, crystal-clear tone, and deep musicality, Bliss effortlessly traverses both traditional and contemporary repertoire, never ceasing to surprise and delight audiences with his electrifying performances. His collaborations with renowned orchestras, ensembles, and composers have allowed him to explore uncharted territory within the realm of the clarinet, showcasing the instrument's seemingly limitless potential. As a shining beacon for the next generation of musicians, Julian Bliss continues to inspire and challenge the world of classical music with his innate talent and fearless artistry.
A key figure in the history of jazz, clarinetist Barney Bigard made an indelible mark on the genre through his remarkable musicianship and innovative approach to the instrument. An early member of Duke Ellington's Orchestra, Bigard's unique style, characterized by warm, sweeping legato phrasing and intricate improvisational prowess, cemented his status as one of the great clarinetists of his time. His work with other jazz luminaries, including Louis Armstrong and Sidney Bechet, further solidified his place as a major force in the development of jazz music. As a prolific recording artist and an influential performer, Barney Bigard left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire generations of clarinetists and jazz musicians alike.
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Béla Kovács
Hailing from Hungary, Béla Kovács has emerged as one of the most accomplished clarinetists of his time, leaving a lasting impact on both performance and pedagogy. Known for his exceptional technique, tonal purity, and deep understanding of the instrument, Kovács' extensive career as an orchestral musician, soloist, and teacher has cemented his place among the greats of the clarinet. In addition to his renowned performances, Kovács has also contributed significantly to the clarinet repertoire through his own compositions and arrangements, showcasing the instrument's expressive capabilities and versatility. As his influence continues to be felt in the world of classical music and beyond, Béla Kovács remains a towering figure in the history of the clarinet.
Hailing from a family of gifted musicians, Israeli-born Anat Cohen has made her mark on the world of jazz and beyond as one of the most creative and versatile clarinetists of her generation. Seamlessly moving between genres – from jazz and classical to Brazilian choro and Afro-Cuban rhythms – Cohen's expressive, fluid playing demonstrates the incredible range and potential of the clarinet as a solo instrument and within an ensemble. Her numerous recordings and collaborations showcase her boundless energy and passion for the music, earning her critical acclaim worldwide. As a true innovator and ambassador for the clarinet, Anat Cohen continues to captivate audiences with her artistry and unbridled creativity.
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Jack Brymer
Renowned for his silken tone and impeccable musicianship, British clarinetist Jack Brymer rose to fame as one of the most highly regarded performers of the 20th century. Serving as the principal clarinetist of both the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the London Symphony Orchestra, Brymer's elegant, effortlessly nuanced playing set a new standard for orchestral clarinet performance. His extraordinary interpretive skills and deep understanding of the instrument's capabilities made him a favorite of both audiences and critics alike, earning him a place among the all-time greats of the clarinet. With numerous recordings and unforgettable performances to his name, Jack Brymer's legacy as a phenomenal musician and masterful clarinetist remains secure.
A prodigious talent and a true trailblazer in Latin jazz, Paquito D'Rivera has become one of the most celebrated clarinetists and saxophonists in the world. Bursting onto the international scene as a founding member of the groundbreaking Cuban ensemble Irakere, D'Rivera quickly gained recognition for his virtuosic playing and mastery of diverse musical styles, ranging from bebop and Afro-Cuban rhythms to classical repertoire and avant-garde explorations. His countless recordings, awards, and collaborations with legendary musicians such as Dizzy Gillespie, McCoy Tyner, and Yo-Yo Ma attest to his unwavering passion for the clarinet and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of the instrument. With his innate charisma and relentless innovation, Paquito D'Rivera continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of music and the clarinet.
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A pioneering figure in the early New Orleans jazz scene, clarinetist Jimmie Noone had an immeasurable impact on both the instrument and the genre itself. With a warm, fluid tone and an impeccable sense of timing, Noone's distinctive playing style made him a highly sought-after performer, working with legendary bandleader King Oliver and leading his own successful groups, such as the Apex Club Orchestra. His innovative approach to improvisation and harmony helped to shape the development of jazz, serving as an inspiration to generations of musicians that followed him. As a performer, composer, and bandleader, Jimmie Noone's legacy remains an integral part of the rich history of the clarinet and jazz music.
With a career that spans over six decades, Argentine-born Giora Feidman has gained international acclaim as both a virtuoso clarinetist and a passionate advocate for the instrument. A master of klezmer music – the traditional genre of Eastern European Jews – Feidman has helped introduce this soulful and deeply emotional style to audiences worldwide, while also exploring the full range of the clarinet's capabilities through jazz, classical, and contemporary music. His magnetic stage presence, combined with an instantly recognizable sound marked by warm, rich tones, and extraordinary technical skill, has made him a beloved figure in the world of music. As an ambassador for the clarinet and a source of inspiration for countless musicians, Giora Feidman continues to share his gift with the world.
One of the most gifted and influential clarinetists of the swing era, Jimmy Hamilton left an indelible mark on jazz history through his work with Duke Ellington's Orchestra and a number of other high-profile ensembles. Possessing a crisp, articulate playing style that set him apart from his contemporaries, Hamilton's virtuosic technique and deep musicianship earned him high praise during his 25-year tenure with Ellington's band. His contributions as a composer and arranger further showcased his talent for musical innovation, helping to shape the evolution of jazz as a genre. As a master of the clarinet, Jimmy Hamilton's legacy continues to influence and inspire musicians around the world.
With a career spanning over three decades as the principal clarinetist of the renowned Chicago Symphony Orchestra, American musician Larry Combs ranks among the greatest clarinetists of his generation. Known for his extraordinary technical skill, rich tone, and deep musical sensitivity, Combs' masterful performances have inspired countless musicians and earned him widespread critical acclaim. In addition to his work as an orchestral player, Combs has also made significant contributions as a soloist, chamber musician, and teacher, sharing his expertise and passion for the instrument with students and colleagues alike. As a leading figure in the world of classical music, Larry Combs remains a testament to the enduring power and beauty of the clarinet.
