Armin
About
I’m a clarinetist and university-level instructor specializing in classical and contemporary music performance. Currently, I’m a teaching assistant at the Academy of Music Sarajevo and a guest member - principal clarinet in the Sarajevo Philharmonic Orchestra.
As a participant in numerous youth competitions across Europe, I bring both performance excellence and competition insight to my teaching. I’ve also collaborated with renowned artists, academic institutions, events, and masterclasses.
I'll be very thankful for taking me as your instructor and will be glad to share my experiences in a curriculum fully customized to your needs.
For a fully personalized learning experience, take a look at my Patreon channel — @theclarinetchannel
It’s designed to support your progress every step of the way.
Teaching Style
My teaching approach is student-centered and adaptable. I believe in building a strong foundation through:
- Tone development and breath control
- Proper posture and hand positioning
- Music reading and rhythm skills
- Scales and technical exercises
I tailor each lesson to the individual, ensuring that we focus on areas that will most benefit your musical growth.
Curriculum
I utilize a variety of method books and materials, including:
- Clarke exercises
- Gaubert & Taffanel exercises
- Rudolf Jettel - Studies for Clarinet
- P.JeanJean - Studies
Lessons are customized to include pieces and exercises that align with your interests and goals.
Credentials & Affiliations
Master of Music Performance in Clarinet, Academy of Music, University of Sarajevo, 2022
Bachelor of Music Performance in Clarinet, Academy of Music, University of Sarajevo, 2020
Erasmus+ Conservatorio Superior de Musica de Vigo, 2018-19.
Armin Smriko received his Master's degree in Music Performance, Clarinet, at the Academy of Music, University of Sarajevo (2022), under the mentorship of Full Professor Vedran Tuce.
His performances have spanned across Europe, with notable appearances in solo and orchestra performances. Since 2018, he has been a member of the contemporary music ensemble “Sonemus,” performing contemporary works at the “Sonemus Fest.” Additionally, since 2016, he has served as a guest clarinetist with the Sarajevo Philharmonic Orchestra, where he interprets symphonic repertoire, operas, and ballets.
During his studies, he won numerous awards at National and International competitions, among which stand out: a laureate at “INSAM Contemporary Artistic Music Competition 2019” (Sarajevo, BiH), third prize at “Concurso de Solistas CSM Vigo 2019” (Vigo, Spain), third prize at the Concurso de Clarinete “Cidade de Ourense” 2019 (Ourense, Spain), second prize at the International Competition “Davorin Jenko” 2018 (Belgrade, Serbia), first prize at the Federal Competition for Woodwind Instruments 2016 (Livno, BiH).
Armin has collaborated with prominent conductors and performers, including Riccardo Muti, Zubin Mehta, Isaac Karabtchevsky, Ricardo Casero, Arash Yazdani, Stefan Milenković, Emmanuel Pahud, Conradin Brotbek, and others. Known for his mastery of contemporary techniques for clarinet and bass clarinet, he actively explores new sound possibilities.