Clarinet Day approaches for all music students

On Saturday, March 28, Troy will hold its 19th annual Clarinet Day. This is a day for music students to come together to learn more about the instrument in John M. Long Hall.  

The day will include recitals, clinics and classes taught by clarinet experts from all over the country.  

“It’s an opportunity for our students to hear world-class concerts, play in masterclasses and perform with other clarinetists from our region and beyond,” said professor of clarinet for the John M. Long School of Music Dr. Timothy Phillips.  

High school and college students are encouraged to attend this event. Throughout the day, students will rehearse in a clarinet choir that will perform in the evening of that day. In between rehearsals, students will also have the chance to watch performances from clarinetists and learn from them in masterclasses.  

Students will also have the opportunity to try clarinets and accessories from a vendor: Beethoven & Company from Tallahassee, Florida. 

Masterclasses will be taught by Cecilia Kang from the University of Indiana, Eric Mandat of Southern Illinois University Carbondale and Michael Rowlett of the University of Mississippi. The musical guests include those teaching masterclasses, as well as J. David Harris of the University of Illinois, Joshua Choi of the San Francisco Opera, Seungho Choi (a noted pedagogue from New York City) and faculty pianists Dr. Benjamin Crook and Dr. Yuecheng Lu.  

Dr. Phillips is also slated to perform alongside Dr. Michael Thrasher, dean of the College of Arts and Humanities.  

“My favorite thing about this event is meeting prospective Troy University clarinet students. I also love attending the guest artist recitals and master classes,” Dr. Phillips said. “It’s always an inspiring day for me and my students,”  

Students from Alabama, Florida, Georgia and Mississippi have registered to attend. The event holds opportunities for both college and high school music students to make connections with expert clarinet players. 

Dr. Phillips also has a weekly radio show called “Clarinet Corner.” This show can be heard on Mondays at 7 p.m. on Troy Public Radio, and there is a “Clarinet Corner” podcast available on any streaming service. 

Registration for Clarinet Day is $30, which includes choir participation, clinics and lunch.

For any questions regarding Clarinet Day, email Dr. Phillips at tphillips16791@troy.edu.  

Follow @troyuniversitymusic on Instagram to see updates about Clarinet Day.