Reviews

 "Consort Performers Receive Prolonged Standing Ovation for Superb Performance. -  In the last work before intermission, clarinetist Ray McClellan (journeying to Bedford from the University of Georgia) had a chance to show off his remarkable technique with the Concert Fantasy on Themes from Rigoletto by Verdi and arranged by Luigi Bassi.  Even the most blasé listener could not help but be energized by this melodious and challenging work.  The extremely fast passages of this piece require very tight coordination between the pianist and the clarinetist.  The virtuosity exhibited by both musicians was breathtaking.  McClellan's playing brings to mind the world famous clarinetist Richard Stoltzman.  Having followed Stoltzman's career from early days, I must say that McClellan exceeds Stoltzman in all areas of technique.  Such tonguing, such tone, such lyricism and such wonderful high notes.  Amazing!  The trio's superb playing was appreciated with a prolonged standing ovation.  All the men are welcome to visit again both as a group and individually."
                                                                                  The Bedford Gazette

"Concert Well Worth Braving the Elements. - In the Brahms Quintet, McClellan used a full palate of tone colors to paint the works dynamic spectrum.  The concert was worth attending, especially to hear McClellan.
                                                                             The Charleston Gazette


"Little Rock Wind Symphony Showcases Stellar Soloist. - Guest soloist for the concert was clarinetist Dr. D. Ray McClellan, Jr., a member of the music faculty of Henderson State University in Arkadelphia.  With his three degrees from the Juilliard School of Music, one would expect McClellan to play well, but his playing goes far beyond anything imaginable.  He is a technical wizard who also shows superb artistry.  McClellan's effortless performance of the florid and dramatic sections of Cavallini's "Adagio-Tarantella" was amazing.  McClellan showed more variety of sound and dynamics than I thought a clarinet could produce.  His performance of Moszkowski's "Etude Caprice" showed both skill and humor."                                                                                                      The Arkansas Times

" Many Performances Rose Above the Hype in 1998. - Clarinetist Dr. D. Ray McClellan Jr.'s performance with the Little Rock Wind Symphony was an eye-opener.  Starker's playing might make you weep, but McClellan's playing makes you smile.."
                                                                                   The Arkansas Times

" Band Leader Retires on Good Note. - A particular highlight of the concert was the guest performances by D. Ray McClellan . . .   "He's phenomenal!  It's always a pleasure to work with someone who has such a high level of musicianship" . . . 
                                                       The Collegian, Penn State University


" University of Oklahoma Clarinet Symposium. - D. Ray McClellan's program featured the Sonata by Nino Rota and concluded with the Concert Fantasy for Clarinet and Piano on Themes from Rigoletto by Luigi Bassi.  Dr.  McClellan is a solid performer who conveyed the musical styles effectively.  His technique in the Bassi was first-rate." 
                                                                                                The Clarinet