Sammy is a clarinetist devoted to performing classical music in all of its exciting varieties, from Bach to Boulez and beyond. No matter the style, he strives to bring his performances to life with a sense of humor, spontaneity, and adventure.
Sammy joined the North Carolina Symphony as assistant principal and Eb clarinetist in 2023. Previously, he was a freelance musician for four years in New York City, focusing on contemporary music, before joining the U.S. Army Band to perform at funeral ceremonies in Washington, D.C.
Sammy has appeared as a soloist with the Seattle Symphony and the Eastman Philharmonia, and at festivals throughout the U.S. and abroad. He has performed with numerous orchestras and contemporary music groups, and has worked with many composers including Steve Reich, performing his New York Counterpoint for solo clarinet as part of Reich's 80th birthday celebrations.
Sammy graduated from the Eastman School of Music in 2016 with a Bachelor of Music and Performer’s Certificate. His teachers include Emil Khudyev, Kenneth Grant, Jon Manasse, Sean Osborn, and Kim Fay. In addition to performing as a clarinetist, Sammy also teaches, composes, arranges, engraves scores, and rabidly listens to music of all kinds. Originally from Seattle, he has had a life-long love for nature and, when not making music, is usually outside enjoying the view and looking for funny animals.
