Hometown:
Charleston, South Carolina
Education:
University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music Bachelor of Music 2023
University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music Master of Music 2025
Bio:
Guatemalan-American clarinetist Marian Mayen has performed with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Lexington Philharmonic, and Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra. She received honorable mention in the 2024 and 2025 Vandoren Emerging Artist competitions, and has participated in the Imani Winds Chamber Music Festival, Sphinx NAAS Audition Intensive, and Chautauqua Instrumental Program. Marian completed her studies under the tutelage of Christopher Pell.
What inspired you to become a musician?
My dad took me to a Charleston Symphony Orchestra concert when I was 14, and I was hooked!
Name your favorite composers and/or pieces:
Mozart, I love how his personality and humor come through in his ingenius writing.
What is an interesting fact about you and/or your instrument?
I am currently teaching myself how to knit.
When taking a break from music-making, what is your favorite thing to do?
I love hanging out with my cats, strength training, and trying new restaurants!
Why did you choose the NRO?
I'm excited to get to learn so much great repertoire in a short amount of time with an orchestra of such a high level. Getting to spend the summer in such a beautiful place as Breckenridge is also a plus!