Anthony McGill (Clarinet '00) Guests on the Latest Episode of Speaking Soundly
Anthony McGill (Clarinet ’00), Curtis’s William R. and Hyunah Yu Brody Distinguished Chair and Artistic Director of Juilliard’s Music Advancement Program, is a special guest on the latest episode of Artful Narratives Media’s Speaking Soundly podcast. Hailed for his “trademark brilliance, penetrating sound and rich character” (New York Times) and his “exquisite combination of technical refinement and expressive radiance” (Baltimore Sun), Mr. McGill is the recipient of the 2020 Avery Fisher Prize, one of classical music’s most significant awards given in recognition of soloists who represent the highest level of musical excellence.
In addition to his dynamic international solo and chamber music career, Mr. McGill is principal clarinet of the New York Philharmonic—the first African-American principal player in the organization’s 180-year history. The renowned artist, who previously served as the principal clarinet of the Metropolitan Opera and associate principal clarinet of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, shares his fond memories of performing at the 2009 inauguration of President Barack Obama and being inspired by role models such as Michael Jordan and Walter Payton as a child in Chicago.
Mr. McGill talks about picking up the clarinet and volunteering his time and talents to encourage younger generations to follow their passions. At age eleven, he recalls hearing, “The pursuit of perfection, or what we think of perfection, isn’t a thing that is most valued. It is how you express yourself on your instrument.” This wisdom has stayed with him throughout his life and career.
Listen to the podcast episode at Artful Narratives Media HERE or click the YouTube link below.
Visit Anthony McGill’s official website HERE.
Photos of Mr. McGill by © Todd Rosenberg Photography.
