Gary Gray was a unique artist, touching listeners with his special charisma and style in all the genres that he played, from classical through film and swing music.
I am grateful for the time in Gary’s UCLA clarinet studio, where he included students into his global and high-end perspective on music-making. He was a true supporter of women in music and exceptionally kind. He gave many of us an opportunity in his studio where he also became an unforgettable mentor and friend.
In 2025, I commissioned composer Nicole Buetti to write a piece in honor of Gary Gray and Franz Cibulka.
Titled Beyond the Red Carpet, the work had its world premiere at Portland State University.
Be moved by Gary Gray’s playing in this award-winning recording.
Did you know that Gary Gray played the clarinet solo in this famous scene?
Gary Gray’s new B-flat clarinet was gifted to Barbara by his widow, Juliette. The instrument is often used in chamber music and in the teaching studio.
Barbara playing on Gary’s Clarinet
The Caged Bird Sings by Joel Thompson
Resonance Ensemble Portland, 2024
Gary Gray during his 2008 visit at the Portland State University Clarinet Studio.
We performed
Konzertstück No. 1, Op. 113 by Felix Mendelssohn-Bartholdy.