Kathryne-Grace Kilby

Hello! My name is Kathryne Kilby. I am a clarinetist with eight years of professional-level experience as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral musician. I’ve held principal positions in ensembles including the Winston-Salem Youth Symphony, Appalachian Youth Orchestra, and the UNC School of the Arts Wind Ensemble, and I’ve earned placements in groups such as the All-State Honors Band and the Catawba College Wind Ensemble, in addition to serving as principal clarinetist in an All-District Honors Band. I have also performed in a wide range of advanced chamber groups at UNCSA, including faculty-coached trios, duos, and mixed-woodwind ensembles.

Alongside my performance work, I have five years of experience teaching private clarinet to students of all ages. I began teaching shortly before attending the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, and many of my students have since secured spots in honor bands, youth symphonies, and competitive regional ensembles. Several have achieved principal placements of their own.

I have studied with many esteemed clarinetists such as Oskar Espina Ruiz, Sydney Lusby, Kania Mills, and Soo Goh, and participated in masterclasses with artists including Anthony McGill and Charles Neidich. I completed my high school studies at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and am currently preparing auditions for major conservatories for Fall 2026. My background in both high-level performance and clarinet repair allows me to offer students not only strong musical training, but also deep insight into reed work, setup optimization, and instrument troubleshooting.

My teaching approach centers on writing customized exercises, technique books, and etudes specifically for each student. Everything is tailored to their skill level, goals, and learning pace. I teach with patience, clarity, and encouragement, focusing on developing a strong foundation in tone production, rhythm, technique, and musical expression for players at any level - from beginners to advanced musicians.

I emphasize consistent practice habits and efficient warm-ups to help students build confidence and enjoy steady progress. Lessons combine technical work, repertoire, and creative musical exploration to keep students motivated and challenged.

I create an environment where questions are welcomed and mistakes are treated as part of the learning process. My goal is to help each student unlock their potential, grow as an independent artist, and develop a lifelong connection to music.