Teaching

Dr. Willinger currently serves as the Assistant Teaching Professor of Clarinet at Ball State University in Indiana. He held faculty appointments previously at Washington & Lee and Radford Universities in Virginia. He has served as a teaching artist for Yale University's Music in the Schools program in New Haven's public school system, as well as an undergraduate clarinet instructor for Yale College. He has coached sectionals for the Yale Concert Band, conducted the Music in the Schools All-City Band's Clarinet Choir, and presented community outreach concerts at public schools. Additionally, Elisha has served as Graduate Instructor at the University of Michigan where he taught secondary lessons and clarinet methods for music education majors. He has taught students of all ages ranging from elementary school to adults.

I cultivate a plan and develop a curriculum tailored to each student’s goals and aspirations. I hope for each student to experience the joy of music making and involve an interactive approach to teaching - integrating my experiences in conducting and performing. Accomplishments among my clarinet studio includes winners of the Ball State University, Washington & Lee University and Radford University Concerto Competitions, CBDNA Intercollegiate & All-State/All-District Honor Bands, successful Youth Orchestra and University music school audition acceptances, among many others. My philosophy aspires to combine a love for music with the effort to help each student become a self-directed learner.

Ball State University offers wonderful degrees in performance, music education, and other subjects. The clarinet studio offers excellent opportunities for music making and many ensembles to participate in. You may find more information about the School of Music here on the BSU website. If you are interested in joining the clarinet studio, I offer prospective students lessons so please let’s get in touch. Feel free to reach out with any questions!

“Dr. Willinger became Radford University's Instructor of Clarinet in the middle of the school year, and I was understandably concerned with such a large shift in instruction. He has absolutely blown me away with his teaching and has stepped up greatly. As a bass clarinetist, I have different pedagogical needs, and Dr. Willinger has helped with everything. Overall, Dr. Willinger continues to astound me with his effective and enjoyable teaching, and I would recommend him as an instructor to anybody.”

-Abraham Richard, Radford University, Music Education ‘24