September 1, 2025
Meet the Musicians
Yuhsin Galaxy Su, Clarinet
Yuhsin Galaxy Su joins the San Francisco Symphony as Second Clarinet at the beginning of the 2024–25 season. She completed a master’s degree at the Colburn School and studied at the Curtis Institute of Music.
What was the first concert you played with the San Francisco Symphony?
My first concert with the San Francisco Symphony was Music from Studio Ghibli with Joe Hisaishi. Growing up, I listened to his music and watched Studio Ghibli films, so performing with him was an incredibly special and surreal experience.
Story continues below...
What was the first concert you played with the San Francisco Symphony?
My first concert with the San Francisco Symphony was Music from Studio Ghibli with Joe Hisaishi. Growing up, I listened to his music and watched Studio Ghibli films, so performing with him was an incredibly special and surreal experience.
Story continues below...
How did you begin playing your instrument?
In Taiwan, music schools require students to have both a primary and a secondary instrument. I initially majored in piano, with clarinet as my secondary instrument. I’ve always loved both, but when I was 14, I made the switch to major in clarinet and moved to the United States to continue my studies. But even now, I continue to play and perform on the piano regularly.
Did you have some especially influential teachers or mentors?
I studied with Yehuda Gilad at the Colburn School for my master’s degree, and he has been one of the most profoundly intelligent and caring mentors I’ve had. His guidance shaped not only my playing but also my approach to music and life. Without a doubt, he transformed my perspective in the most incredible way.
What kind of clarinet do you play?
I recently bought a Buffet Tosca clarinet, and I love how it feels to play. It’s incredibly responsive, with a warm, resonant tone that projects brilliantly. It’s an instrument that truly inspires me every time I play it.
Do you have other musical activities outside the Symphony?
I play a lot of piano and accompany at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, which allows me to stay engaged in the broader musical community. This coming October, I’ll be performing Copland’s Clarinet Concerto with the Reno Chamber Orchestra. I’m really looking forward to it!
Can you tell us a little about your life outside the Symphony?
Running is a big part of my daily routine—I go for a run first thing in the morning. I also love to cook and bake, often creating my own recipes for dishes I enjoy. On a nice sunny day, I love to take a walk to Arsicault Bakery for my favorite almond croissants!
What’s your concert day routine?
I start the day with a morning run, followed by coffee and peanut butter toast—my go-to breakfast. After warming up on clarinet, I practice piano and take a walk in a nearby park. I like to cook dinner at home before heading to the concert. Afterward, I like to treat myself to a small glass of wine and watch some Friends before heading to bed.
Why is an orchestra an important cultural pillar in a city like San Francisco?
The San Francisco Symphony is a vital part of the city’s cultural fabric. It brings world-class music to the community, fosters creativity, provides music education, and supports the local economy. Most importantly, it keeps classical music alive in innovative and exciting ways, ensuring its relevance for generations to come.
In Taiwan, music schools require students to have both a primary and a secondary instrument. I initially majored in piano, with clarinet as my secondary instrument. I’ve always loved both, but when I was 14, I made the switch to major in clarinet and moved to the United States to continue my studies. But even now, I continue to play and perform on the piano regularly.
Did you have some especially influential teachers or mentors?
I studied with Yehuda Gilad at the Colburn School for my master’s degree, and he has been one of the most profoundly intelligent and caring mentors I’ve had. His guidance shaped not only my playing but also my approach to music and life. Without a doubt, he transformed my perspective in the most incredible way.
What kind of clarinet do you play?
I recently bought a Buffet Tosca clarinet, and I love how it feels to play. It’s incredibly responsive, with a warm, resonant tone that projects brilliantly. It’s an instrument that truly inspires me every time I play it.
Do you have other musical activities outside the Symphony?
I play a lot of piano and accompany at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, which allows me to stay engaged in the broader musical community. This coming October, I’ll be performing Copland’s Clarinet Concerto with the Reno Chamber Orchestra. I’m really looking forward to it!
Can you tell us a little about your life outside the Symphony?
Running is a big part of my daily routine—I go for a run first thing in the morning. I also love to cook and bake, often creating my own recipes for dishes I enjoy. On a nice sunny day, I love to take a walk to Arsicault Bakery for my favorite almond croissants!
What’s your concert day routine?
I start the day with a morning run, followed by coffee and peanut butter toast—my go-to breakfast. After warming up on clarinet, I practice piano and take a walk in a nearby park. I like to cook dinner at home before heading to the concert. Afterward, I like to treat myself to a small glass of wine and watch some Friends before heading to bed.
Why is an orchestra an important cultural pillar in a city like San Francisco?
The San Francisco Symphony is a vital part of the city’s cultural fabric. It brings world-class music to the community, fosters creativity, provides music education, and supports the local economy. Most importantly, it keeps classical music alive in innovative and exciting ways, ensuring its relevance for generations to come.
