Anthony M. Gigliotti
An American Legend
A native of Philadelphia, Anthony Gigliotti received his first lessons from his father, an accomplished clarinetist, and later continued his studies at Curtis Institute as a pupil of Daniel Bonade. He was a passionate exponent of the “American Sound” - singing through the medium of the clarinet which represents a combination of the best of many diverse schools of playing.
After graduating from Curtis and completing a four-year tour of duty in the U.S. Navy, Gigliotti played with the Ballet Russe of Monte Carlo and the Little Orchestra Society before joining The Philadelphia Orchestra as Principal Clarinet in 1949. During his unprecedented 47 year tenure, he appeared as soloist on numerous occasions, was featured on many recordings, and premiered several works which were written for and dedicated to him.
As a founding member of the legendary Philadelphia Woodwind Quintet, Gigliotti has performed throughout the world and the ensemble has many recordings to its credit, including historical accounts with Francis Poulenc and Rudolf Serkin.
As the pre-eminent clarinetist in the world for more than half a century, his legacy of students teaching in universities and playing in major orchestras throughout the world is staggering. He was on the faculty of Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, the Esther Boyer College of Music at Temple University, and the Peabody Conservatory of Music of the John Hopkins University.
Anthony Gigliotti's life-long pursuit of perfection resulted in design of the Gigliotti Maestro clarinet mouthpiece. Its remarkable tone, even scale and ease of playing quickly made it the ultimate choice of top professional players around the world. Gigliotti later developed the full line of clarinet and saxophone accessories designed to his highest professional standard.
Today, Anthony Gigliotti's legacy is flourishing, and his products are enhancing careers of countless musicians all over the world.