Education
- Michigan State University | DMA in Clarinet Performance, 2020
- Baylor University | MM in Clarinet Performance, 2017
- University of Tennessee - Knoxville | BM in Instrumental Music, 2015
Biography
As a native Memphian, music has been an integral part of Marissa Manthongkham’s life
from an early age, and she is proud to contribute to the vibrant fine arts community
of her hometown. An accomplished clarinetist, Marissa has performed as a soloist,
chamber musician, and large ensemble member in local, regional, national, and international
venues. Her performance highlights include a chamber music tour in Kolkata, India,
as well as participation in both the Imani Winds Chamber Music Festival in New York
and the Philadelphia Orchestra Chamber Music Festival.
Beyond the stage, Marissa is passionate about expanding access to fine arts education
and promoting meaningful community engagement. She previously served as Director of
Operations and Educational Programming for PRIZM Ensemble, where she oversaw one of the Mid-South’s largest chamber music festivals and helped
broaden access to high-quality artistic and educational experiences across the Memphis
community. In recognition of her contributions to nonprofit arts administration, she
was selected as a member of the Memphis Flyer's 20 Under 30 Class of 2022.
Marissa’s professional background also includes dynamic experience in higher education,
where she has advocated for student success and fostered transformative learning experiences. She has presented
at national and regional conferences on best practices in higher education and received
a NACADA Region 3 Excellence in Academic Advising Award for her contributions to advising and academic success.
Today, Marissa brings together her passions for the performing arts, education, and
community engagement in her role as Event Manager for the Rudi E. Scheidt School of
Music. Through her work, she strives to create meaningful opportunities that connect
performers, students, and audiences while enriching Memphis’ cultural atmosphere. Outside of her professional duties, Marissa enjoys performing
with the Bluff City Winds and sharing her love of music with her energetic toddler, Rema.
