Michelle Palmer - Principal Clarinet

I’ve had the privilege of being with the symphony since it started.

It’s like a family to me! Some of us have played together for decades!

I wanted to play the clarinet because my friend did. I started band in 5th grade.

I would have to say that my band directors made the biggest impression on me as a young musician. Ron Fuss in middle school, Gordon Hart in high school and Phil Moore in college.

My husband and I have 3 grown children who are all married. I am “patiently” waiting for grandchildren.

I am the clarinet teacher at UMHB and have also just recently gone back to band directing. I have two amazing part time jobs at both Academy MS and

Salado MS.

When I was in 4th grade, I tried out for band. I didn’t make it!!

Oh my! I don’t think I could pick just one. I do love to play Shostakovich! I love Beethoven and John Williams, too!

If it’s your passion, do it! There are so many ways to be involved in the arts. Don’t be afraid to get out there an make your own path.

I would tell them “You’ve got to go hear the Temple Symphony! You’ll be amazed at the caliber of performance going on right here in our community!”

I hope people come away from our concerts excited about what they were just a part of. And I hope they come away wanting to come back again!

I wish people understood the years of practice that have gone on before the musicians ever take the stage.

First, I like to get an overall view of a piece by just playing through it. Then I will usually listen to some recordings. Next I start learning small sections, focusing on the difficult parts until I can finally play it.

I really do like all kinds of music. Currently, when I get in my car, I’m listening to a young Christian artist named Josiah Queen. I’ve been playing his

newest album over and over. I love the acoustic, folk feel. Soon I will have to find my favorite Christmas album - “Oy to the World - a Klezmer Christmas”. I am a Klezmer wannabe!

I think the fact that we are made up of so many local musicians makes us very special.

Getting to play really good music keeps me passionate. Teaching also keeps me passionate. I love seeing the beginner students excitement when they start playing. It’s kind of contagious!

Best Symphony Ever