JáTtik Clark

Principal Tuba

What convinced you that you wanted a career in music?

When I was a small child, I wanted to become a doctor. This is what I would tell anyone that would ask or listen to me. In my heart and soul, I just knew that medicine would be my chosen profession. On the other hand, music (and the arts in general) was something that I always enjoyed as a hobby. Being successful at local/district/state auditions, getting a chance to travel around and other music-related endeavors made me realize that I had a natural gift that shouldn’t be denied. Even more importantly, I was actually having some fun!! Finally, as a high school senior, I made the decision to pursue music and take the riskier path. So far, so good!

How did you choose your instrument?

Easy question…I didn’t! The tuba chose me. Back then, if it would have been MY choice, I would have been the next saxophone prodigy! However, after trying all the different mouthpieces with my junior high band director, she felt that tuba would be the best fit for me. I sensed a set-up, but agreed to give it a try it for a while. Perhaps, she had a valid point…

What guest artist would you most like to perform with?

I really don’t have a particular guest artist in mind, but anyone who truly enjoys making music would be welcome on the stage. The great musicians have an aura that can inspire people by simply doing what they love to do, without them even trying to do so. Partaking in a synergy with fantastic artists in order to create music is why I am here. Getting to work with those kind of artists, even once in a while, is a true blessing.

What are you listening to right now?

My musical tastes are constantly changing. That said, I would say that the bulk of it is mostly classical (heavy on the Romantic composers). My other favorites include opera, jazz, blues, and “old skool” and alternative hip-hop/rap. Currently, I have been listening to “Coast to Coast” which is a tuba solo CD by Alan Baer (Principal Tuba of the New York Philharmonic) with the hopes that it will motivate me to put on a solo recital in the near future!

What is on your nightstand?

Two clocks (one plays CD‘s, both have multiple alarms - a good thing!), a small lamp, a couple of sci-fi/anime books, a color pamphlet that I received from a fascinating tour of the Boeing factory in Everett (WA), a cordless phone, a drink coaster and my watch.

Besides your instrument, what is your most treasured possession?

Simply put, my life. Life allows me (and all of us) to effect change, learn from our mistakes, and make a positive difference/impact out there. Of course, we all want to feel that our lives have meaning and purpose. For me, music has become a large part of that. It’s up to us to “make it so”!