Introduction
Joel Panas is the Clarinet Graduate Teaching Assistant at West Virginia University where he is currently pursuing the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in Clarinet Performance. He also held the Clarinet Graduate Teaching Assistant appointment at Ohio University prior. He is an accomplished performer as a soloist, chamber musician, orchestral player, and wind band musician. His work includes performances with the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra, Ohio Valley Symphony, Pittsburgh Philharmonic, Mountain Arts Center Wind Orchestra, the HarmonicBreez3 woodwind trio, the 4JEMS Clarinet Quartet and the Cincinnati Wind Band.
Recognizing his talent and dedication, Joel recently achieved a significant milestone in his career by winning a concerto competition with Scott McAllister’s “Black Dog.” His performance showcased his exceptional skill not only in traditional clarinet techniques but also in the innovative use of extended techniques, including effortless extended altissimo notes, highlighting his versatility and creativity as a musician. Joel’s dedication to his craft has earned him praise from peers and mentors alike, who often remark on his beautiful butter-like tone.
Joel is a true virtuoso of the E♭ clarinet, captivating audiences with his remarkable control and the ability to reveal the instrument’s profound beauty. Joel plays on a YCL-680II paired with a Backun Cutback Barrel crafted from tulip wood, have garnered widespread acclaim and admiration.
In addition to his performances, Joel is deeply committed to music education. He shares his expertise with aspiring clarinetists through private lessons, fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment. With aspirations of becoming a clarinet professor and orchestral musician, Joel is dedicated to honing his skills and sharing his passion for music with future generations.
Current Education
B.M. Clarinet Performance, Ohio University 2023
M.M. Clarinet Performance, Ohio University 2025
D.M.A. Clarinet Performance, West Virginia University (expect May 2028)
Current Equipment
Bb Clarinet: Buffet R13, Royal Global Adjustable Barrel (Silver)
A Clarinet: Buffet Tradition, Backun Fatboy Barrel (Grenadilla)
Eb Clarinet: Yamaha 681-II, Backun Eb Cutback barrel for Bb Clarinet reeds, Clark/Fobes extension
Mouthpieces: BD5: Bb/A. Clark/Fobes 10K14123: Eb
Reeds: Rico D’addario Reserve Classic 3.5 – Bb, A, and Eb
Ligature: Vandoren M/O – Bb, A, Eb
Education
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Ohio University
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08/20/2019 - 05/06/2023
Clarinet Performance, Clarinet Teaching, Music Theory, Orchestral Playing, Wind Band Playing, Chamber Music Playing
BM Clarinet Performance
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Ohio University
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08/20/23 - 05/07/2025
Clarinet Performance, Clarinet Teaching, Music Theory, Orchestral Playing, Wind Band Playing, Chamber Music Playing
MM in Clarinet Performance, Clarinet Graduate Teaching Assistant. 2024 Concerto Competition, Winner
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West Virginia University
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08/15/2025 - 05/07/2028
Clarinet performance and teaching. Pedagogy
DMA Clarinet Performance
Experience
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Cincinnati Wind Band
- 11/01/2023 - present Clarinetist
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OHIO Symphony Orchestra
- 0/8/20/23 - present Principal Clarinet
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Pittsburgh Philharmonic
- 06/01/24 - 07/07/2024 Substitute Principal Clarinet
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Mountain Arts Center Wind Orchestra
- 06/29/24 - Present Eb Clarinetist
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4JEMS Clarinet Quartet
- 01/20/24 Eb and Bb Clarinet
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Ohio Valley Symphony
- 12/12/2024 Clarinet
