Thuc Nguyen
| Principal Clarinetist
Thuc is an accomplished clarinetist who has garnered several prestigious solo and concerto competition titles, leading to performances at renowned venues such as Carnegie Hall, the Bozar Performing Arts Centre in Brussels, and Meany Theatre. He was also a finalist at the esteemed International Clarinet Association Competition.
Thuc studied under the guidance of Yehuda Gilad at the Colburn School, where he honed his craft. His other influential teachers include Boris Allakhverdyan and Michelle Zukovsky, both former and current principal clarinetists of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, as well as Eli Eban. A highlight of his studies was being selected by the legendary Mitchell Lurie for the highly competitive spot in his clarinet studio at USC. Thuc was also accepted to the Cleveland Institute of Music, where he received a scholarship to study with Franklin Cohen, principal clarinetist of the Cleveland Orchestra.
Thuc has participated in prestigious summer programs, including the Aspen Music Festival and School, where he received intensive orchestral training with Bil Jackson. He also attended the Harid Conservatory of Music, further expanding his musical education.
Throughout his career, Thuc has performed with a variety of orchestras, including the Fort Bend Symphony, Southeast Symphony, Westside Ballet Orchestra, Santa Monica Orchestra, and Dream Orchestra, showcasing his versatility and passion for music.