Franklin Cohen

Principal clarinet emeritus of The Cleveland Orchestra, Franklin Cohen has distinguished himself as one of the most outstanding clarinetists and musicians of his generation. His playing has been described as “hypnotic, impeccable, brilliant...with a vocal quality that would be the envy of any singer.” The Cleveland Plain Dealer has described Cohen as, “the Callas of clarinetists, spinning mesmerizing lines amid flashes of temperament. Music-making of such urgency, beauty and virtuosity is uncommon on any instrument.” Cohen first gained widespread acclaim when, at the age of 22, he became the first clarinetist awarded first prize at the International Munich Competition. He continues to perform with leading artists around the globe and many of his students hold prestigious positions in the music world. Cohen is the founder and co-artistic director of ChamberFest Cleveland.