Giovanna M. Clayton was born in Toluca, Mexico where she began studying music at the age of 7. In 1984, she moved to Los Angeles, California, continuing her music studies and winning various competitions and scholarships. She made her solo debut in Santa Barbara, California when she was 14 years old. Since then, she has appeared as soloist with orchestras in the United States and in Latin America.

Giovanna began her college career on a full scholarship at the age of 16; she received her BA and MM from the University of California, Los Angeles. Recently, she took a year off from her doctoral studies to participate in a fellowship through the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, which involved playing with the Civic Orchestra of Chicago and substituting with the Chicago Symphony. In 2004, Giovanna won positions with the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra and the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra.

In addition to her dedication to music, Giovanna has a strong sense of commitment to her community. She has been recognized for her time and effort in tutoring at-risk youth, and for performing many free concerts at local schools, hospitals and convalescent homes.

Photo: Michael Miller