Kell, Reginald (1906-1981), was an English classical clarinetist. Kell became known for his superb technique and for his ability to produce beautiful tone through the whole range of his instrument. He used vibrato (a vibrating sound) expressively. Kell’s use of vibrato had a major impact on clarinet playing in England.
Reginald Clifford Kell was born on June 8, 1906, in York, England. He studied at the Royal Academy of Music in London from 1929 to 1932 and later taught there. He was principal clarinetist for several major English orchestras from 1931 to 1948, when he moved to the United States. He taught at the Aspen Music School in Colorado from 1951 to 1957. Kell returned to live in England in 1971. He died on Aug. 5, 1981.
