“Creating an emotional and narrative soundscape is what music is all about, not just merely playing notes and rhythms,” says Yuhsin Galaxy Su, who was recently selected to play second clarinet with the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra. Her statement reflects her unique approach to the clarinet, an instrument that often takes a backseat to others in the orchestra.
With her remarkable technique, significant roles, and numerous accolades, Su is spearheading a renaissance for the clarinet in classical music, redefining the perception of this often-underestimated instrument.
Yuhsin Galaxy Su was born with an innate musical talent and an exceptional ear for pitch. Her dedication to practice and performance from a young age set the foundation for her future success. She was captivated by the clarinet’s soft, soothing sound, which fueled her curiosity to explore the instrument’s potential, transforming her interest into a lifelong passion.
While her formal music education provided a solid foundation, it was her relentless pursuit of excellence that set her apart. Her ability to showcase the clarinet’s diverse range of sounds and tones has helped elevate it from an often-overlooked instrument to a powerful soloist presence.
A pivotal moment in her career came in 2014 at the Morningside Music Bridge, where Su’s performance of André Messager’s Solo de Concours demonstrated the emotional and technical depth of the clarinet, earning her and the instrument international acclaim.
Her reputation continued to grow with a 2022 performance of Gershwin’s Three Preludes in Taiwan. By blending jazz elements with classical interpretation, Yuhsin Galaxy Su presented a novel rendition that captivated audiences and showcased her innovative style.
In addition to her mastery of the standard B-flat clarinet, Su has also excelled with the less common Eb clarinet, an instrument known for its higher pitch and unique challenges. Her proficiency with the Eb clarinet has expanded its repertoire and appreciation, highlighting her extraordinary skill and versatility.
A career highlight came in 2017 when Su performed Ravel’s Daphnis et Chloé at the Helsinki Music Centre. Her flawless execution of the delicate, high-pitched sections on the Eb clarinet showcased the instrument’s unique capabilities, earning praise from both audiences and critics. This was followed by another standout performance of Strauss’s Ein Heldenleben, Op. 40 at the Krzysztof Penderecki European Centre for Music.
Su’s career continues to flourish, with her recent appointment as second clarinet with the San Francisco Symphony marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter. In this role, Su will continue to demonstrate the clarinet’s versatility, introducing her innovative techniques and captivating performances to even broader audiences.
As digital platforms expand and live performances make a comeback post-pandemic, artists like Yuhsin Galaxy Su will play a crucial role in shaping the future of music. “Every performance is a chance to tell a story and share a part of my soul with the audience,” Su says. “The clarinet is my voice. Through it, I hope to bring more beauty and emotion to the public.”
