Biography

Samantha Winkler is a highly accomplished clarinetist and arts administrator based in Forest Park, IL, recognized for her compelling artistry on stage and strategic leadership behind the scenes. Equally at home in performance halls and administrative offices, she brings a rare blend of musical excellence and operational acumen to every endeavor.

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Samantha currently serves as Assistant to the Director of Admissions at VanderCook College of Music, where she plays a key role in shaping the institution’s recruitment strategy. Her portfolio includes the planning and execution of major outreach events, management of sophisticated CRM systems, development of targeted digital marketing campaigns, and high-touch engagement with prospective students and families, all contributing to the school’s continued enrollment success.

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She previously served as Assistant Dean at the prestigious Brevard Music Center, one of the nation's premier summer training programs for young musicians. In this capacity, she oversaw campus-wide operations, including residential life, staff training, logistics, and emergency response, while serving as a primary liaison for students, faculty, guest artists, and senior leadership. Her work was instrumental in ensuring a seamless, enriching experience for hundreds of participants each season.

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An in-demand performer, Samantha has served as principal clarinet with respected ensembles such as the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra, West Suburban Symphony Orchestra, and Chicago Wind Symphony, and is a regular member of the Naperville Winds and Wheaton Municipal Band. Her repertoire spans major orchestral works and contemporary compositions, with notable performances of works by Tchaikovsky, Debussy, Beethoven, Brahms, Bernstein, Gershwin, Ticheli, Coleman, and Reed. Her chamber music and solo appearances include recitals at Northwestern University, the Brevard Music Center, and the Western Springs Music Club.

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A passionate educator and mentor, Samantha built and sustained a thriving private studio for 7 years and served as a woodwind clinician for school districts across Chicago and Houston. Her approach blended technical rigor with artistic freedom, nurturing young musicians through customized curricula and student-centered instruction.

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Samantha holds a Master of Music in Clarinet Performance from Northwestern University and a Bachelor of Music in Clarinet Performance from the University of Houston. Her principal teachers include Stephen Williamson, Todd Levy, Steve Cohen, and Mark Nuccio.