Don Ross

Clarinetist Don Ross plays some 100 shows a year in professional bands and orchestras in groups as diverse as Crescendo Orchestra, The Gadjo Collective Balkan Band, Opera Nuova, Mile Zero Dance, the Billie Zizi Swing Band and many more. He leads the West End Hot Club jazz trio and Saint Crispin's Chamber Ensemble. He teaches clarinet at the University of Alberta, King's University and MusiCamp Alberta. He currently serves as board chair for the Edmonton Arts Council.

Teaching Quote/Philosophy: 

Don brings good cheer, a deep love of music, long study of the mechanics of playing and patience and respect for his students to every lesson. 

 

Lesson Description: 

Don has over forty years experience teaching at all levels. Many of his students succeed in competitions and auditions, but some are more interested in finding more ease and control in their recreational playing. He does his university teaching during the week and his community teaching on weekends at ArtsHub. His program and pace are always tailored to the needs of the student. He gets a real kick out of lighting people up. 

 

Education and Certification: 

Master of Music in Clarinet Performance, Northwestern University in Chicago. 
Bachelor of Music in Clarinet Performance, University of Alberta 
Artist Diploma, University of Toronto 
Six summers at the Banff Centre. 

 

Professional Associations and Memberships: 

Associate Composer of the Canadian Music Centre 
Alberta Registered Music Teachers Association 
Alberta Band Association 
American Federation of Musicians local 390 
Edmonton Arts Council 
Clarinet and Chamber Music Instructor, University of Alberta 

 

Student Testimonial: 

"Don, words cannot describe how incredible it has been to study with you. You are so, so wise and so, so kind and you make learning music an absolute blast. It has been an honour to study with you, and I cannot wait to work with you more in the future." 

-Student
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