Clarisa De la Garza

Clarinet, Piano
Five to Adult, Beginner to Early Advanced

Bachelor’s Degree in Clarinet Performance
University of Texas Pan American/Rio Grande Valley

Teaching Philosophy

The process of learning a new instrument doesn’t need to be frustrating or boring. The human ability to adapt to challenges and learn new skills is such a fascinating and inspiring thing to me, and I do my best to tap into the potential of my students depending on their goals and needs. My learning environment is relaxed and casual, with a focus on methodical and thoughtful performance. My three areas of focus are: bodily awareness for comfortable playing, rehearsal techniques for efficient and frustration-free practice, and most importantly, enjoying the music! Appreciation for their instrument, self-motivation, and independence as a musician are my end goals with all students.

Biography

Clarisa De la Garza grew up in Mission, TX. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s degree in music performance (clarinet) from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in 2017. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in music performance (clarinet) at the University of Texas San Antonio and teaches part time at the Musical Arts Center of San Antonio as a clarinet and piano instructor. In 2016 she was the winner of UTRGV’s annual concerto competition, and in 2022 she was the winner of UTSA’s annual concerto competition.

Clarisa has a joy for all things music and has experience in various areas beyond clarinet performance, including piano performance and pedagogy, conducting, studio recording, arranging, and composing. Her improvisatory piece for clarinet choir, “9:13,” had its world premiere performed at the International Clarinet Association conference in Lawrence, Kansas in 2016, and she self-publishes a number of other works. She has been teaching since 2015 and is passionate about sharing musical knowledge and skills in different ways. Her clarinet students have exhibited success in TMEA and ATSSB region and state competitive events, and her students at Tex Hill Middle School were invited to perform at the Midwest International Band and Orchestra Conference in 2020 – the first middle school in San Antonio to receive this prestigious invitation. She also has experience in the Northeast and Judson school districts as a band and choral accompanist. During her down time away from music, Clarisa enjoys boxing, walking, relaxing at home, and game nights with friends.