Published: October 09, 2007 08:35 am            

Symphony clarinetist: Music 'brings joy'

BY RUTH RICE

RRICE@TRIBDEM.COM

As principal clarinetist for Johnstown Symphony Orchestra, Jeanne Frieben can put her fingers on the right notes.

Her parents started her on the clarinet when she was 7, a young age for that instrument because young children's fingers are not usually long enough to cover all the instrument's holes.

"My parents chose the clarinet for me because it was small and easy to carry," Frieben said. "I was blessed with long fingers at an early age, and my enthusiasm and determination helped me keep up with the older kids. It was difficult because you have to close the holes with your fingers.

"The teachers tested me."

Frieben attended St. Clement's School in Upper Yoder Township until seventh grade, when she was enrolled in public school so she could perform with a musical group.

After graduating from Westmont Hilltop High School in 1980, Frieben continued her musical instruction at West Virginia University, Morgantown, graduating in 1984 with a bachelor's degree.

She also studied at the Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara, Calif.

In 1986, Frieben received a master's degree from WVU.

She credits her music teachers and band directors in junior and senior high schools, especially her high school teacher Aggy McConaughy, with guiding her to where she is today.

"She put so much time, energy and enthusiasm into teaching me," Frieben said.

"She went out of her way to help me.

"Aggy gave me every opportunity she could to help me succeed. She gave me my enthusiasm."

When Frieben came to Johnstown Symphony as principal clarinetist in 1988, it was to fill the position that had been held by McConaughy.

"It was a homecoming," Frieben said. "I was honored.

"She's been very supportive.

"She sent me roses. We were both happy it happened."

Frieben enjoys performing with the symphony because of its supportive environment.

"The camaraderie between orchestra members makes it a joy to be there," she said. "It's really rewarding when we experience those moments when we are so connected musically that the music seems to fall right into place.

"At those times, it's easy to forget the audience is there because I'm so wrapped up in the music."

Frieben has performed two solos with the symphony.

"My mom's my biggest fan," Frieben said. "She comes to all my performances."

Frieben also plays bass clarinet with the West Virginia Symphony in Charleston, serves as principal clarinetist with the Fairmont Symphony Orchestra and second clarinetist with the Seneca Chamber Orchestra in Charleston, W.Va.

She has performed with the Ohio Valley, Westmoreland, Western Maryland, River Cities and Wheeling symphonies.

"They still ask me to fill in, but it's not permanent," Frieben added.

For two summers, Frieben also served as principal clarinetist for the Lyric Mountain Festival.

She has served as a clarinet instructor at Frostburg State University and Cumberland Music Academy.

"It's not lucrative unless you're in a top orchestra, but I've always enjoyed it," Frieben said.

"It's rewarding having a profession that brings joy to so many people. People turn to the arts in times of trouble and sorrow."

Frieben's principal employment is director of the com-munity arts programs at WVU.

She started part time in the community music program with a flexible schedule that allowed her time for teaching and traveling.

Frieben became the full-time director when the previous director left and the arts and music programs were combined.

"I find this very rewarding because I can help to play an important role in providing people of all ages with instruction in art, music, theater and dance," Frieben said.

"I try to reach out to all ages because I am a strong believer that one can participate in and enjoy the arts at any age and should because of the many benefits the arts offer."

As clarinet instructor for the music program, Frieben has taught students from ages 8 to 88.

She also is adjunct instructor of clarinet at WVU.

"It's hard for me to say no," Frieben said of her busy schedule. "I can handle a lot, but sometimes I do more than I should.

"Spring is busy with playing times every weekend."

With so much on her plate, Frieben said she may get exhausted, but never burned out.

When she's not playing or teaching music, Frieben enjoys studying languages, traveling and singing.

She can speak German, French and Flemish and has traveled to Europe several times as a chaperone for American Music Ambassadors, a high school group.

"I made some friends, and now I go to Europe every year," Frieben said.

She has taken voice lessons and sings at churches, weddings and other special occasions.

When she returns to Johnstown to visit her family, she sings at First Church of Christ Scientist, 1067 Menoher Blvd., Westmont.

Although Frieben has played in the orchestra pit during high school musicals, her secret wish has always been to be on stage singing.

        

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