Section: Clarinet
Title: Principal
Miriam Culley, principal clarinetist, is currently enjoying her 20th season with the RSO. She not only loves the rich variety of musical experiences that this orchestra offers, but values the culture of professional musicianship and friendship that is apparent in this fine orchestra.
Miriam also performs frequently in all positions from principal clarinet to Bass & Eb in the Dayton Philharmonic. She has also been a member of the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra for over thirty years. One of Cincinnati’s top free-lance musicians, Miriam has appeared with the Cincinnati Symphony, Cincinnati Pops, and Cincinnati Ballet Orchestra, as well as the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra, Indianapolis Ballet Orchestra and the Lexington Philharmonic.
Miriam received her Bachelor of Music degree from DePaul University in Chicago, IL and her Master of Music degree from the College-Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati. In the summer she has performed with the Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra in Chautauqua, NY and has also participated in many summer music festivals, including the Pacific Music Festival in Sapporo, Japan, the Great Woods Institute and the Aspen Music Festival.
As a chamber musician, Miriam’s accolades include first place in the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition (woodwind quintet), and a top then finish in the Munich Competition, also with woodwind quintet.
In addition to her performance career, Miriam maintains a thriving teaching studio; many of her students participate in both District and All State bands.
Miriam is married to a percussionist and has two lovely daughters. She enjoys a healthy lifestyle and playing with her two fluffy cats, Rosco and Suki.