DreamVest Founder, Marcus Alston, is an award-winning, classically trained clarinetist whose musical journey spans a lifetime of dedication. In his formative years of playing clarinet, he received orchestral training during summers spent at the prestigious Interlochen Center for the Arts. Marcus then honed his craft in Chicago under the guidance of some of the world’s most respected clarinetists, including Larry Combs, former Principal Clarinet of the Chicago Symphony, and renowned pedagogue Julie Deroche. He has won multiple concerto competitions and performed orchestral repertoire professionally. 

Music is deeply rooted in Marcus’ family history. He comes from a legacy of clarinet players, with his late Uncle, Mother, Aunt, Sister, and now his two young nephews all sharing the same passion for the instrument. To top it off, he has a host of cousins gifted in voice and his husband is a classically trained flutist, making music a defining thread in the fabric of their lives.

Throughout his career, Marcus has balanced his professional life with his love for music. While working full-time at JPMorgan Chase, he played in the Alma Symphony Orchestra to maintain his scholarship at Alma College. His career as an Underwriter at Auto-Owners Insurance didn’t stop him from dedicating seven years as Principal Clarinet and Concert Master of the Hillsdale Wind Symphony, where he also made guest appearances as a conductor and soloist. During his MBA studies, Marcus served as Principal Clarinet of the University of Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra. Most recently, outside of his role as a Leader in HR at Cisco, Marcus has received coaching from Dr. Janet Averett, Professor Emeritus at San Jose State University, and Carey Bell, Principal Clarinet of the San Francisco Symphony, in preparation for DreamFest: a clarinet, dance, and fundraising gala extravaganza.

For his 40th birthday, Marcus is thrilled to share an evening of music with all of you at DreamFest. Ticket proceeds will directly support adult students, funding their education this year and every year after. 

Join Marcus and DreamVest in celebrating music, family, and the transformative power of education—one note at a time.