Chung Yoo
Clarinet Instructor 

Chung Yoo, a distinguished clarinetist from South Korea, has garnered international acclaim for his masterful performances, characterized by both technical brilliance and deep musical expression. His journey in music began with a series of remarkable victories in prestigious competitions, establishing him as a formidable talent from an early age. Among his accolades, Chung secured 1st prizes in the Joongang Music Competition, the Korean Clarinet Association Competition, and the Seoul National University Winds Competition. He also won the 1st prize at the Yega National Students Competition and the Students Music Association Competition, triumphing in both middle and high school categories. His success in these and other contests, such as the Artur Balsam Competition for Duos, where he claimed both 1st and 3rd prizes, set the stage for his distinguished career.

These achievements led Chung to New York City, where he further honed his craft under the mentorship of the legendary clarinetist Charles Neidich at the Manhattan School of Music. There, he earned a Doctor of Musical Arts, a Master's degree, and a Professional Studies Certificate in Classical Clarinet. Chung also holds a Bachelor's degree from Seoul National University.

Chung's performance career is as varied as it is distinguished. He has held prominent positions with leading orchestras, showcasing his versatility and artistry in numerous settings. As the Principal Clarinetist of the Korean National Police Orchestra, he led performances across South Korea, delivering stirring interpretations of both classical and contemporary repertoire. He has also served as Guest Principal Clarinetist with the Chungbuk Philharmonic Orchestra and held positions with the Yangpyeong Philharmonic Orchestra and the Ditto Orchestra, among others. His orchestral work has taken him to esteemed stages, including performances with the Korean Symphony Orchestra, where he served as Guest 2nd Clarinetist, and the Seoul Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, where he held the role of Principal Clarinetist.

In the United States, Chung continued to make his mark, performing with the New York Wind Orchestra as 3rd Clarinetist and participating as a finalist and semi-finalist in major orchestra auditions, including the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra, Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, and Reading Symphony Orchestra. These roles have solidified his reputation as a skilled and adaptable musician capable of navigating the demands of diverse orchestral environments.

As a soloist, Chung has performed with notable orchestras, including the Manhattan School of Music Chamber Sinfonia, where he delivered a stunning rendition of Mozart's Clarinet Concerto in A Major, K.622. He has graced stages worldwide, from the Fort Lee Music Hall Opening Concert in New Jersey to the Benefit Gala for the Korean Community Research Center in New York City.

Chung's chamber music endeavors are equally impressive. He has performed at prestigious events such as the 29th Annual Premieres Concert with the Stony Brook University Contemporary Chamber Players and the Cooperstown Summer Music Festival. His chamber performances have also been featured at the Artur Balsam Competition for Duos Winners’ Concert and the Faculty Composers’ Concert at the Manhattan School of Music.

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Beyond his performances, Chung Yoo is a passionate advocate for contemporary music, both as a performer and a composer. His original works, such as "A Nightmare in New York" and "New York Nocturnes," have been showcased in recitals in New York City, demonstrating his creative versatility. As a conductor, Chung has led various ensembles, including the Ewha Women’s University Amateur Orchestra and the Seoul Arts High School Chorus, reflecting his multifaceted musical talents.

Chung has also enriched his artistry through participation in numerous prestigious summer festivals, including the Bowdoin International Music Festival as a Kaplan Fellow, the Sarasota Music Festival, and the MostArts Festival. These experiences have further shaped his musicianship, allowing him to engage with diverse musical traditions and leading pedagogues from around the world.

As an educator, Chung Yoo has shared his extensive knowledge and experience with students in both institutional settings and through private instruction. He has served as a guest lecturer at the Manhattan School of Music, where he has also coordinated woodwind classes and provided mentorship to the next generation of clarinetists.
Chung Yoo continues to captivate audiences and inspire students with his dedication to musical excellence, bringing a unique blend of tradition and innovation to the art of clarinet performance.