Why I Chose Backun
“The MoBa is hands down the best clarinet I have ever played. It has allowed me even greater freedom of expression while still maintaining my own individual sound.”
About
Jonathan Guist is Associate Professor of music at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, where he teaches applied clarinet, clarinet ensemble and chamber music. He holds a D.M.A. from the Eastman School of Music, a M.M. from Baylor University and a B.M.E. from New Mexico State University. Principal teachers include Kenneth Grant, Richard Shanley, and Laroy Borchert. Dr. Guist’s previous teaching engagements have included the Eastman School of Music, Nazareth College, Baylor University, the Hochstein School of Music and Dance, and the Conservatory of Central Illinois.
Jonathan appears frequently as a soloist and chamber musician throughout the United States and internationally. His recent engagements include performances as featured soloist with the Valley Symphony Orchestra, UTRGV Symphony Orchestra, and UTRGV Wind Ensemble and a solo recital at the Escuela de Artes Musicales, Universidad de Costa Rica. Additional appearances include lectures, clinics and performances at conferences of the International Clarinet Association, National Flute Association, Texas Music Educators Association, College Music Society, National Association of College Wind and Percussion Instructors and the International Double Reed Society and as an adjudicator for Music Teachers National Association, Texas Music Educators Association and Texas UIL Solo & Ensemble.
As a strong advocate for chamber music and new music, Jonathan has been involved in the commission of several new works for chamber ensemble. Additionally, he is a founding member of the Frontera Chamber Music Society whose mission is to advance and promote chamber music through inspiring community performance, education and outreach.
