Ma Yue
Principal clarinetist of the Singapore Symphony Orchestra
Professor at the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music at the National University of Singapore
Ma Yue
Clarinetist
Ma Yue is a highly respected clarinetist and music educator who has built an impressive career in the classical music scene. Born and raised in Singapore, his musical journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in Clarinet Performance from the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing, which he completed between 1980 and 1984. His passion and talent for the instrument then led him to the prestigious Zurich University of the Arts, where he earned an Artist Diploma in Clarinet Performance from 1991 to 1993.
Ma Yue's professional path is marked by outstanding achievements and engagements with some of the world's leading orchestras. He began his career as the Principal Clarinetist and Clarinet Teacher at the Youth Orchestra of the Central Conservatory of Music (1984-1988). This was followed by roles as Principal Clarinetist and Assistant Conductor with the University of Alabama Symphony Orchestra (1989-1990), and engagements as a clarinetist in ensembles such as the Alarida Octet and the Tuscaloosa Symphony.
His impressive career continued as he worked as a Freelance Clarinetist for the Zurich Opera House Symphony Orchestra and the Zurich Symphony Orchestra (1991-1993). A significant milestone was his position as the Principal Clarinetist with the Singapore Symphony Orchestra, which he has held since July 1993. Additionally, Ma Yue served as the Principal Clarinetist in the China Philharmonic Orchestra from July 2000 to July 2002.
Beyond his impressive orchestral career, Ma Yue has also gained recognition as a music educator. He has been a Professor of Clarinet at the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music since August 2002 and has conducted numerous masterclasses at leading music conservatories and academies in China.
His dedication and commitment to music have also made him a valued member of various jury panels at prestigious music competitions. His considerable accolades include the 1st Prize at the Kiwanis Clarinet Competition in 1990 and recognition as one of the top ten most influential Chinese wind performers by China Central Television in 2013.
Ma Yue has also made a name for himself as a mentor, with many of his former students holding significant positions in leading orchestras worldwide. His commitment to musical education and contributions to the art of clarinet make him a key figure in the world of classical music.