Clifford Leaman

Clifford Leaman serves as Professor of Saxophone at the University of South Carolina's School of Music, bringing over thirty years of collegiate teaching experience from Furman University, Eastern Michigan University, and the University of Michigan to his current position.

Education:

• Doctor of Musical Arts in Saxophone Performance, University of Michigan
• Master of Music in Woodwind Instrument Performance, University of Michigan
• Bachelor of Science in Music Education, Lebanon Valley College

Professor Leaman's research and creative practice centers on advancing contemporary saxophone repertoire through commissioning new works and technical innovation. He has premiered concertos by Pulitzer Prize-winning composers Leslie Bassett, William Bolcom, and Michael Colgrass, with notable recordings including the Bassett Concerto with the University of Michigan Symphony Orchestra. His performance career spans over twenty countries, featuring appearances at World Saxophone Congresses, North American Saxophone Alliance conferences, and collaborations with major orchestras like the ShenZhen Symphony.

As a recording artist, Leaman has released four critically acclaimed albums, including Traces featuring newly commissioned works for two saxophones, and co-founded the RoseWind Duo with percussionist Scott Herring in 2005. Their recordings Release and Devils Garden/Angels Landing showcase specialized repertoire for saxophone and marimba.

Leaman maintains significant industry partnerships as an artist-clinician for D'Addario, Conn-Selmer, and Key Leaves, performing exclusively on Selmer Paris saxophones and D'Addario Reserve reeds. His educational outreach includes masterclasses at leading institutions worldwide such as Northwestern University, Eastman School of Music, Beijing Central Conservatory, and Conservatoire National Supérieur de Paris.