Help Emily Purchase Clarinets for College Study

Hello! My name is Emily Perez-Ojeda, and I am a junior at the Chicago High School for the Arts. Playing the clarinet became my passion when I started over 7 years ago, where in third grade, I had the opportunity to try out instruments to join the school band. Without knowing what it was, I chose the clarinet even though I only tried it once, and after my first concert in fourth grade, I was mesmerized by the art that I could create. Without realizing it, my after-school activity became my passion in life.

I am currently a full-scholarship fellow of Chicago Musicians Pathways Initiative, and because of it I have had wonderful opportunities and unforgettable experiences. Earlier this year, I had the chance to receive a masterclass from Anthony McGill, principal clarinetist of the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. In December, I got to work with Steven Williamson, principal clarinetist of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, I was able to visit Eastman School of Music, a school on my list, and have private instruction from Michael Wayne, the Professor of Clarinet.

I have been attending Merit School of Music since fall of 2023, I began playing with the Wind Symphony, and now I am playing with both the Wind Symphony and the Merit Philharmonic Orchestra. At the end of January, I performed with the ILMEA all state band and with my District band. In May, I received the IHSA 2025 Best of Day Award for clarinet at the Illinois High School Association Solo and Ensemble. One of my best achievements, so far, was winning first runner-up in the Merit School of Music Concerto Competition. Looking forward, I have earned a full scholarship to attend Brevard Music Center Summer Institute, for the senior session in orchestra.

As a first-generation musician and soon to be first-generation college student in my family, I worked hard to improve and to make connections to further my experience. Thankfully, through this journey I have met great educators and have become a part of programs that allow me to learn more and have access to tools I need, most importantly my clarinets. The Bb clarinet I am playing on now is a rented one from Merit School of Music, and my A clarinet is a school issued instrument. In orchestral pieces, often, we alternate from A to Bb, resulting in the necessity for both instruments. I own a clarinet that has gotten me through the past two years of high school, but as I’ve grown as a musician, purchasing a professional level instrument is my next step. Unfortunately, purchasing them can be pricey, and my family is not able to afford them. These clarinets, would help me get through college auditions, future performances, and festivals.

In order to continue making such accomplishments after high school, owning clarinets of my own would be ideal. Playing clarinet has been my passion. My family and CMPI are contributing to some of the cost, but it does not cover the total amount. Any contribution would be greatly appreciated.

Enjoy my performance of the Clarinet Concerto No. 1 in F minor by Weber.

Thank you for considering helping and being a part of my musical journey. I will forever be grateful for all of your support!!