Since 2022, Baltimore bass clarinetist Todd Marcus and Toronto clarinetist Virginia MacDonald have been performing and touring together across the United States and Canada with their quintet. Their work together presents a lush ensemble that showcases the range of beauty and power by the clarinet in a modern jazz context, with repertoire comprised of original compositions by both bandleaders. They have performed at jazz festivals and prominent venues internationally and will release their debut album as co-leaders in 2025.

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Due to technical challenges and volume issues, most musicians that utilize both bass and Bb clarinets tend to also double on saxophone and avoid using clarinets for more intense straight-ahead jazz. While the clarinet has a rich history in traditional New Orleans and Dixieland music, swing era big band contexts, and avant-garde free playing, it is significantly underutilized in modern straight-ahead jazz.
Marcus and MacDonald have both established a prominence and international reputation on their respective instruments in the modern jazz realm with their unique solo and compositional voices. Their musical partnership showcases the versatility of the bass clarinet and clarinet, and captures audiences with a new and unique musical experience.

“This tour/performance/show/event is made possible with the support of Jazz Road, a national initiative of South Arts, which is funded by the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation with additional support from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.”