For clarinetist Joohwan Song, music has always been about embracing the wonderful challenges that it presents: the technical demands, the musically-informed decisions, and the artistry of bringing it all together on stage. It was during his formative high school years that he first discovered the beautiful tone of the clarinet. Its delicate, lyrical nature—reminiscent of a warm embrace—is what inspired him to pursue a career as a performing artist. As both a performer and instructor of the instrument, Joohwan is dedicated to revealing the clarinet’s full potential through his artistry and engaging presence.

As a performer, Joohwan enjoys the collaborative spirit of music-making. In 2018, he performed Beethoven’s Trio for Clarinet, Piano, and Cello in B-flat Major, Op. 11 at Carnegie Hall after winning the Grand Prix of the Rising Talents Music Festival competition. His most recent chamber performance, featuring him on bass clarinet, was Andy Akiho’s NO one To kNOW one, which he performed as part of a Costa Rica tour with the University of Oregon Wind Ensemble. 

Joohwan’s enthusiasm for chamber music complements his enduring dedication to the orchestra. He has previously performed with professional groups such as OrchestraNEXT and the Newport Symphony Orchestra, as well as his university’s orchestra and wind ensemble. In 2024, he performed at the Sewanee Summer Music Festival, where he was inspired by the dedication of his fellow musicians and felt reaffirmed in his drive to pursue artistic excellence. Joohwan also enjoys regularly collaborating with student composers to premiere their works to the public.

In addition to being a performer, Joohwan also works as a private instructor. He primarily teaches younger students and focuses his teaching philosophy on building a firm foundation upon which his students will eventually flourish independently. As an instructor, Joohwan believes in fostering a spirit of joy for playing the clarinet. His warm and personable nature complements his vision of cultivating an uplifting atmosphere for his students where they are free to explore and discover the nuances of the clarinet with his thoughtful guidance.

Currently, Joohwan is pursuing his M.M. in clarinet performance at the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University under the guidance of Alexander Fiterstein. In 2025, he graduated from the University of Oregon with his B.M. in clarinet performance, studying with Dr. Wonkak Kim, where he received the Outstanding Musician in Woodwinds award.