Morella Maldonado
Email:​​ [email protected]​
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​Mrs. Morella Maldonado graduated cum laude from Texas State University in 2023 with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education. During her time there, she studied clarinet under Dr. Vanguel Tangarov and served as Drum Major for the Bobcat Marching Band. She was principal clarinetist of the Symphonic Band under Dr. Kyle Glaser for two years and performed on contrabass clarinet with the Wind Symphony under Dr. Caroline Beatty. She also participated in the university’s Basketball Band for all four years and performed on alto clarinet with the Texas State Clarinet Choir.

She began playing the clarinet in 2011 and quickly developed a passion for both performance and teaching. While attending Schulenburg High School, she earned a place in the ATSSB All-State Band in 2019, becoming the first clarinetist in school history to receive this honor.

Maldonado is an active performer with the Aquarena Wind Ensemble, where she also serves on the board as the band librarian. In addition to teaching and performing, she serves as the Marketing Director for the Savoy Big Band and is a member of the International Clarinet Association (ICA) and the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA).

As an educator, Maldonado’s goal is to help students become independent musicians. She emphasizes building confidence, encouraging critical thinking, and equipping students with the tools to practice effectively, problem-solve, and grow on their own. She believes the clarinet is often misunderstood and is passionate about guiding students to navigate the instrument with clarity and confidence.

She is committed to developing well-rounded musicians by fostering a genuine desire to practice, preparing students for confident performances, and supporting each individual’s unique musical journey. Having faced her own challenges with confidence as a young musician, she strives to create a supportive, honest, and encouraging learning environment where students feel empowered to succeed.

Outside of music, Maldonado enjoys spending time at home with her husband and their six cats, also known as the “Meowdonados.”