Yuhsin Galaxy Su, a recent addition to the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra, is making waves with her innovative approach to the clarinet. “There’s an uncharted sphere of emotional and sonic possibilities that the clarinet can explore,” Su says, highlighting her belief in the instrument’s untapped potential.
Su’s career is marked by prestigious awards and notable performances that underscore her exceptional talent and artistic vision. She won the San Francisco Second Clarinet Audition in 2024 and has served as principal clarinet for both the Colburn Symphony Orchestra and the Taiwan Connection Symphony Orchestra.
Joining the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra as second clarinet is a significant personal achievement for Su and a pivotal moment for her instrument. In an industry traditionally dominated by classical orchestral roles, Su is redefining the clarinet’s place in contemporary music.
Her approach to the clarinet challenges conventional views. “The clarinet has always been seen primarily as an orchestral instrument,” she notes. “But its range, dynamic contrasts, and capacity to convey deep emotion also make it a powerful solo instrument.” Su’s innovative perspective has led her to expand the clarinet’s role, capturing the fascination of audiences and critics alike.
Su’s solo performances reveal the clarinet’s versatility through both technical skill and emotional depth. Her 2014 rendition of André Messager’s “Solo de Concours” at the Morningside Music Bridge in Canada was lauded for its expressive range and dynamic contrast, setting a new standard for solo clarinet performances.
In 2022, Su’s solo recital in Taiwan further established her as a trailblazer. Her interpretation of Gershwin’s “Three Preludes” masterfully blended jazz influences with classical technique, showcasing the clarinet’s adaptability across genres and transforming it from a mere concert instrument into a statement of artistic vision.
A key aspect of Su’s contribution to the field is her expertise with the E-flat clarinet, a less commonly performed instrument due to its demanding nature. “The E-flat clarinet’s higher pitch requires precise technique and control,” Su explains. “But its unique sound can add a remarkable dimension to both solo and orchestral works.”
Su’s performances on the E-flat clarinet have received critical acclaim. In 2017, her interpretation of Ravel’s “Daphnis et Chloé” at the Helsinki Music Centre was described as “breathtaking,” while her subsequent performance of Strauss’s “Ein Heldenleben, Op. 40” at the Krzysztof Penderecki European Centre for Music was praised for its warm, rich tone—a rare achievement on this challenging instrument.
Thanks to musicians like Su, the clarinet’s future in contemporary music looks bright. Her upcoming projects include a global tour with the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra and a series of solo performances at major international festivals, each presenting an opportunity to further elevate the clarinet’s prominence.
“The clarinet has much more to offer than we traditionally expect. I aim to continue exploring its potential and sharing its beauty with audiences worldwide,” Su asserts.
Through her work, Su revitalizes the clarinet’s role and enriches the broader musical landscape, ensuring that this versatile instrument will continue to enchant listeners for years to come.
