Sergio Coelho, Principal Clarinet

How old were you when you started playing your instrument?

“I was 9 years old when I started to learn piano and clarinet in a small wind band near my hometown.”

What is your favorite music to listen to? 

“This is extremely hard for me to answer. I really don’t have a favorite music style or artist and I enjoy listening to a wide variety of styles. I listen to many things like Classic, Pop or even Folk Music from different countries, though Fado has a special place in my heart.”

Besides the Bakersfield Symphony, what else do you do for a living?

“I am a freelance musician, collaborating with several artistic organizations throughout the United States but mostly in California. In Los Angeles, I teach for several nonprofit organizations that take music to schools and communities that are lacking access to the arts, and I also maintain my own private clarinet studio.”

What is one piece of advice you would give to an aspiring musician? 

“It’s important to have goals and to know what direction to follow, but whatever those goals are, always do it with passion, connecting and inspiring the communities. They are the main reason of us being here.”

Fun Facts About Sergio

“I am a soccer aficionado and follow my teams whenever I have a chance. I support Benfica from Portugal and the Los Angeles Football club in the US.”

“Food is one of my passions and it’s really hard for me to point a favorite dish. I love trying different things from all over the world and experimenting with my own cooking!”