The women bringing the clarinet to life!

Women making the clarinet shine!

The clarinet has a rich, versatile sound, and many incredible women have helped shape its place in music. In this blog, we’re shining a light on some amazing clarinetists like; Sabine Meyer, Sharon Kam, Emma Johnson, Annelien Van Wauwe, and Victoria Soames Samek, who have made a lasting impact on both classical and contemporary music.

Sabine Meyer

Born in Crailsheim, Germany, Sabine Meyer is celebrated as one of the leading clarinetists of our time. Her journey began at the Hochschule für Musik in Stuttgart, where she studied under Otto Hermann. She further honed her craft with Hans Deinzer in Hannover. Meyer’s career took a historic turn in 1983 when she joined the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra as one of its first female members, challenging traditional norms in the orchestral world. Despite initial resistance, her exceptional talent solidified her position in the classical music scene. Meyer has an extensive discography, including acclaimed recordings of Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto and Quintet. Her interpretations are lauded for their clarity, warmth, and expressive depth, making her a sought after soloist with leading orchestras worldwide.

Sharon Kam

Israeli clarinetist Sharon Kam has garnered international acclaim for her technical prowess and emotive performances. A graduate of the Juilliard School, where she studied under Charles Neidich, Kam’s career soared after winning the ARD International Music Competition in 1992. She has since performed with renowned orchestras such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Berlin Philharmonic. Kam’s versatility is evident in her repertoire, which spans from classical masterpieces to contemporary works. Her recording of Weber’s Clarinet Concertos received the ECHO Klassik award, highlighting her ability to blend technical brilliance with lyrical sensitivity.

Emma Johnson

British clarinetist Emma Johnson rose to prominence after winning the BBC Young Musician of the Year competition in 1984 at the age of 17. A graduate of Pembroke College, Cambridge, Johnson has built a distinguished career as a soloist, chamber musician, and recording artist. Her discography includes best-selling albums like “Clarinet Goes to Town,” showcasing her affinity for both classical and jazz genres. Johnson’s commitment to expanding the clarinet repertoire is evident through her collaborations with contemporary composers and her own arrangements, making her a pivotal figure in bringing the clarinet to a broader audience.

Annelien Van Wauwe

Belgian clarinetist Annelien Van Wauwe is recognized as one of the most captivating and original soloists of her generation. Born in Hamme, Belgium, she began playing the clarinet at a young age. Van Wauwe studied under Sabine Meyer in Lübeck, Germany, which significantly influenced her artistic development. Her career gained international recognition after winning joint second prize at the ARD International Music Competition in Munich in 2012. A former BBC Radio 3 New Generation Artist, she has performed with leading orchestras and at prestigious festivals worldwide. Van Wauwe is also active in chamber music with her ensemble, CAROUSEL. Several works have been composed especially for her, reflecting her influence in contemporary music. She is a principal teacher for historical and modern clarinet at the Royal Conservatory Antwerp and resides in Berlin.

Victoria Soames Samek

Victoria Soames Samek is a distinguished British clarinetist and saxophonist, renowned for her versatility and dedication to contemporary music. A graduate of the Royal Academy of Music, Samek has built a multifaceted career as a performer, educator, and recording artist. She founded the ensemble “Samek Music,” through which she has commissioned and premiered numerous new works, significantly enriching the clarinet repertoire. Samek’s pedagogical contributions include masterclasses and workshops worldwide, reflecting her commitment to nurturing the next generation of musicians.

For anyone playing the clarinet, these women show that there’s always room to push boundaries and bring fresh life to the music.

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Happy reading!
Odisei Music Team