Jennifer Taira, Clarinet

A native of Hawaii, clarinetist Jennifer Taira has performed extensively throughout the United States as a chamber musician and solo recitalist. Recent performances include recitals at the French Embassy in Washington D.C., Ruth Eckard Hall in Tampa, Florida, and at the University of Hawaii. Some of her career highlights include receiving 1st prize in the Hennings-Fischer Foundation Young Artist Competition, 2nd Prize in the Kingsville International Competition, and a solo performance with the Burbank Philharmonic. She has been the recipient of many awards and scholarships, including a full fellowship to study at the Kent/Blossom Music Festival, winner of the Winnetka Music Club Scholarship, and prize winner in the Evanston Music Club Scholarship Competition. She holds a Master of Music degree from Yale University, where she studied with David Shifrin and Lawrence McDonald, and a Bachelor of Music degree from Northwestern University, where she studied with Russell Dagon.

Ms.Taira is currently pursuing graduate studies in music and music education at Columbia University. She is interested in emerging trends in music, technology, popular culture, and the media, and ways in which the apparent changing climate of music in schools and society are impacted.