Carolyn M Alvarez-Agria

Carolyn Alvarez-Agria is a clarinetist, specializing in clarinet, bass clarinet, and E-flat clarinet, with extensive performance experience at the Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center, and venues worldwide. After completing her studies at the Eastman School of Music and Cleveland Institute of Music, both on merit scholarships, she won the E-flat Clarinet position and Assistant Principal Clarinet in the Orquestra Simfònica de Barcelona i Nacional de Catalunya, followed by service with The President's Own United States Marine Band. She has also substituted with The National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center, The Cleveland Orchestra, and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra (contracted position, E-flat Clarinet). She has been recognized in the Washington Post for her "usual mastery of doubling skills," and praised by audiences and colleagues alike-including Wynton Marsalis, Bernadette Peters, among others. She has also performed Lead Book, covering all clarinets, flute, alto flute, piccolo, and alto and soprano saxophones, in productions at Signature Theatre, Olney Theatre, Roundhouse,Imagination Stage, among others. Carolyn has taught at The Duke Ellington School for the Performing Arts, and held faculty positions atGeorgetown University as Head of Chamber Music and Clarinet Professor, and at Catholic University teaching Woodwinds. She also maintains a thriving private studio, where her students have achieved remarkable successes—including one student who won a position with The President's Own United States Marine Band. Her students have also earned full scholarships for music  performance and music education, high school students have earned All -State first chair placement in clarinet , eflat clarinet, and bass clarinet- Northern Virginia, known for its highly competitive and exceptional music programs. In Carolyn's spare time, she chooses to spend it outdoors w her family, friends , loving pets , cats , dogs ,and the occasional wandering fox trying to befriend her Aussie mix! 

I am a dedicated clarinet educator with an extensive professional résumé and a proven record of student success. My teaching is grounded in strong technical fundamentals, musical integrity, and clear expectations. Students under my instruction consistently earn top ratings, secure placements in honor ensembles, and demonstrate meaningful, long-term growth as musicians.

While I maintain high standards and am precise about what I expect, I believe learning thrives in an environment that includes laughter and encouragement. I use humor to ease pressure, build confidence, and keep students engaged—without ever compromising discipline or quality. This balance allows students to feel supported while being challenged to meet their highest potential.

My goal is to develop disciplined, expressive clarinetists who are not only technically prepared, but also confident, resilient, and genuinely excited about music.