Wisconsin native Sami Weinkoetz began her clarinet studies at age 12. She has since taught clarinetists of all levels, from beginners to advanced collegiate players. Weinkoetz also has a diverse classroom teaching background, with experience in 4K-8 general music, group piano, and all levels of band. As a rising conductor, she has led ensembles of various levels, including community and collegiate bands.

In addition to conducting ensembles, Sami served as principal clarinet for many, including the UWSP Symphonic Wind Ensemble, UWSP Symphony Orchestra, Plymouth Municipal Band, and the Youngstown State University Wind Ensemble. She has also performed with the Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra, Youngstown Symphony Orchestra, and Menomonee Falls Symphony Orchestra. In 2019, she was named the winner of the Peet Faust Concerto Competition. 

Outside of performing, Weinkoetz maintains an active presence in the video game music community under the name “The Clarinerdist.” On her channel, she posts her own arrangements of video game music tracks that spotlight the clarinet. Most recently, she has been featured on TPR’s album, “A Stroll Through Johto,” a project featuring arrangements of music from the Pokémon Gold, Silver, and Crystal games.

Sami Weinkoetz holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education & Performance from the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point, and a Master’s of Music Performance from Youngstown State University. Her primary teachers include Dr. Amy McCann, Dr. Sarah Manasreh-Decker, and Dr. Alice Wang. Weinkoetz also serves as a Clarinet Faculty member at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music and as the Adjunct Professor of Clarinet at Carroll University.

During her free time, Sami enjoys doing yoga, playing video games, drawing, and spending time with her fiancé.