Nathan Williams

About Nathan

Clarinetist Nathan Williams has recently been praised for his “sublime control”, “silky sound”, and “dazzling technique”. He is the principal clarinetist of ROCO in Houston and along with pianist Audrey Andrist and violinist James Stern is a founding member of Strata, a trio that for more than 25 years has been honing and augmenting this ensemble's repertory.

Williams is a frequent guest performer and teacher across the country and abroad. He has given concerts throughout North America, Europe, and Asia, and broadcasts of his performances can be heard regularly on National Public Radio’s “Performance Today”. He has recorded for Albany Records, Composers Recordings, Inc., Naxos, New Dynamic Records, and Arizona University Recordings.

His students have garnered prizes in national and international competitions, most recently including the Yamaha Young Performing Artists Competition, Music Teachers National Association Collegiate Young Artist Competition, the Vandoren Emerging Artist Competition, and the Texas Young Artists Competition. Former students hold positions in major symphony orchestras and universities in the United States and abroad.

A graduate of Eastman (MM) and Juilliard (DMA), Williams is an artist/clinician for Vandoren and a Buffet Group USA Performing Artist. For further information about Nathan and his activities, visit his website, www.nathanwilliamsclarinet.com.

My teaching focuses on nurturing three essential skills: musical understanding, technical command (which allows this musical understanding to be effectively shared with others), and a burning curiosity for lifelong learning. Integration of these areas allows the instrument to become an extension of one’s body, heart, and mind. At the center of this approach is endless possibility, knowing that there is always something more, something better that we as artists can give in the next performance, lesson, or master class. Music making and meaningful living go hand in hand. It is my intention that my work with students will lead them toward a greater awareness of themselves as authentic musicians and human beings, and foster independence, curiosity, and creativity to allow them a lifetime of fulfilling musical and personal experiences.