Taylin Hamilton

 

 

From Bowling Green to Florida State — A Musical Journey Begins

Name: Taylin Hamilton
Hometown: Bowling Green, KY
Graduation Year: Class of 2025
Major: Music (Clarinet Performance & Music Education)

 

Why WKU?

For Taylin Hamilton, choosing Western Kentucky University felt more like coming home than making a decision. Growing up in Bowling Green, Taylin had strong ties to the WKU campus through years of concert assessments, Honors Band Clinics, and All-State help sessions hosted by the university. “WKU already felt like home before I ever enrolled,” she says.

 

Favorite WKU Music Memories 🎵

It’s hard for Taylin to choose just one favorite moment from her time at WKU—but it’s the small, everyday memories in the Fine Arts Center that she'll treasure most.

From late-night practice sessions with friends to jamming on ukuleles in the hallway during Dr. Wilson’s class, Taylin describes the FAC as a second home. “I’ll always cherish the time spent around the round table and the friendships built in those halls,” she says.

 

Where Is She Headed Next?

In Fall 2025, Taylin will begin a master’s degree in clarinet performance at Florida State University—a prestigious next step in her musical journey.

Her long-term goal? To earn a Doctorate in Music Education and eventually teach at the collegiate level. But first, she plans to teach middle and high school band, sharing her love for music and inspiring the next generation, just as her teachers once inspired her.

“I never thought I’d be going to grad school,” Taylin admits. “But I’m so grateful for everything WKU gave me—the opportunities, the lessons, and the belief that I could do more.”

 

How WKU Helped Shape Her Career

Taylin credits every experience—every class, recital, masterclass, and performance—as instrumental in shaping her growth as both a musician and an educator.

“WKU didn’t just teach me how to play; it taught me how to teach, how to reflect, and how to grow,” she says.

 

Advice for Future Music Majors:

“Don’t let setbacks halt your progress.

No matter where you are in life, there will always be challenges or moments when something doesn't go your way. Use those moments to reflect. Ask yourself:

• What didn’t go as planned?
  • What’s something that went well?
  • How can I grow from this?

These setbacks should be opportunities for learning, not defeats.”

 

🎓 WKU Department of Music
Celebrating the next generation of musicians, educators, and performers who are taking their talents from the Hill to the world.

Do you know a standout student or alum we should feature next? Let us know!

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