A founding member suggested the name Prickly Pear because the ensemble is somewhat of a quirky group of Texans (mostly immigrants from the other 49 states!) who enjoy musical interaction with one another, honing our musicianship, aspiring to interpret compositions as the composers or arrangers envisioned, and sharing our performances with live audiences.

Much like the beautiful and sweet fruit of the prickly pear plant, the Prickly Pear Clarinet Ensemble desires to add a spritely sweetness to the musical offerings of Texas. As such, we affectionately refer to the members of the ensembles as “Pears!”