Spain’s Pablo Barragán is one of the leading clarinetists of his generation. Through albums like Boundless and Balagan, and as Principal of the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra, he approaches music as a bridge.
Artist Playbook caught up with Barragán to talk about the connecting power of sound.
“Stay true to yourself and let the music speak.”
How did you first discover the clarinet?
It began with jazz. Listening to Benny Goodman made me love the clarinet — its sensitivity, flexibility, and charm. Jazz and swing made my heart dance. I still remember my first jazz festival, unable to resist moving with the rhythm.
What is special about the instrument?
The clarinet can express every human emotion. It can convey delicacy and fragility, overwhelming joy, or absolute wildness. Its range of colors, dynamics, and articulation allows it to feel like a human voice.
How do you decide what projects to work on?
Ideas are never truly finished. Creating a project is an exciting and deeply introspective journey. I try to be patient, trust my instincts, and remain open to discovering along the way.
It’s a living process — a kind of creative osmosis.
What has a life in music taught you about bringing people together?
Connecting people is art’s highest purpose Music has the power to deepen our understanding of one another. Our industry doesn’t always prioritize that mission, but I believe artists have a responsibility to build bridges.
Looking back, what advice would you give your younger self?
Be yourself. Let go.
Stay focused on who you are and offer your best musicianship. Life will bring uncertainty, but honesty is something you can hold onto. That’s my talisman.
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