Why I Chose Backun
“Morrie Backun’s unparalleled ability to repair a clarinet is only a hint of the gifts he possesses. I have never come across anyone who better understands how the instrument works. Morrie is capable of performing adjustments that can make it possible for a fine player to realize the sounds they want to make on much more consistent basis. In my case, his work on my instruments has made it simply more fun to play! His innovations and craftsmanship for clarinets with high tech equipment, rare woods, metals and synthetics can be compared to the artistry and craftsmanship of past centuries instruments by the legendary luthiers of Cremona.”
About
Winner of the 2000 Avery Fisher Prize, clarinetist David Shifrin has appeared with the Philadelphia and Minnesota orchestras and the Dallas, Seattle, Houston, Milwaukee, Detroit, and Denver symphonies.
He has appeared in recital at Alice Tully Hall, Weill Recital Hall at Carnegie Hall, and the 92nd Street Y in New York City, and at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. In addition, he has appeared in recital and as a soloist with orchestras throughout Europe and Asia.
A three-time Grammy nominee, he has been the artistic director of Chamber Music Northwest since 1980 and a faculty member at Yale since 1987. An artist member of the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center since 1989, he served as its artistic director from 1992 to 2004.
