By Dr. Amelia Smith, lecturer of clarinet
Shakira Delgado, a graduating senior clarinetist at California State University, Fresno, has been named an Undergraduate Presser Foundation Music Scholar. Recipients of the nationally-recognized Presser Scholar Award exemplify attributes of “leadership, integrity in their academic work and are conscious of inclusivity in their musical environments.” Delgado has spent much of her time as a Fresno State student highlighting and advocating for diversity in the classical music field, which has for centuries been lacking in minority representation.
Thanks to the efforts of the School of Music Department Chair, Dr. Cari Earnhart, this is the first academic year Fresno State has been eligible for this distinguished award. As such, Shakira Delgado is the first undergraduate Presser Scholar recipient and is proud to represent her gender, ethnicity and culture in this honor.
“As a first-gen Latina, I understand the importance of representation in the arts and how much it can mean to see yourself reflected in the music you play,” Delgado said.
Her work towards inclusivity within the field is demonstrated in many ways, one of which is a database she has created to include works of music with clarinet by composers from BIPOC, LGBTQ+, Indigenous and other marginalized communities. This database serves as a resource to help bring these lesser-known works to the fore. It aims to help diversify programming and widen the common ground between different communities and backgrounds.
Delgado explains, “For musicians who identify with these marginalized communities, it can be difficult to find pieces that resonate with their identity and experiences.”
For her senior recital this semester, Shakira welcomed the opportunity to honor and celebrate her Latin American roots, of which she holds immense pride, by curating a program of works by exclusively Latin American composers. She deeply resonated with the pieces by Gabriela Ortiz, Sonia Morales-Matos, Carlos Guastavino and Arturo Marquez and has emphasized the connection she finds with the distinct textures, rhythms and stories that reflect the cultural diversity of the Latin American experience. Shakira hopes this recital moment will inspire others to explore diverse programming choices in their work and further push forward the conversation of inclusivity in the classical music landscape.
Delgado’s academic work has remained high-achieving since the beginning of her time at the Fresno State School of Music. Her accomplishments include earning principal positions in the top and major ensembles, including The President’s Quintet, a highly sought-after scholarship opportunity for music students. Shakira has and continues to seek a deeper and wider understanding of her studies, including music education, clarinet performance and ensemble pedagogy.
Each Presser Scholar receives $3,000 in recognition of their outstanding achievements in musical and academic performance, leadership and service, and contributions to building inclusive communities.
The College of Arts and Humanities at Fresno State 