Clay's life began with soulful credentials. Born in Macon, Georgia, the son of a Baptist minister, he was destined to play the blues. At the age of six, he joined his first band, playing sticks in his elementary school rhythm band. Sharing his parents' love of classical music, Clay began playing cello at age ten and played baritone horn through high school.

It wasn't until Clay was at college (earning degrees in psychology and philosophy) that he was given a harmonica. He learned to sing and play the blues on a Ford Motor Co. assembly line during summer vacations. At his commencement ceremony, he realized that music was in his bones. Three days later, he and a classmate formed The Clay Kirkland Band.

Clay moved to Denver in 1975 and played with the nationally touring country-rock band Breakaway for three years. He continued to play in various bands, including Mumbo Jumbo and Hot Pickles, and with artists diverse as Robben Ford, Chuck Perry, and the Colorado Symphony Orchestra. Currently, Clay performs professionally, teaches, and presents workshops in area high schools for the C.S.O. Clay has released one CD titled "Clay: Blues, Rock, Raga Harmonica." Clay teaches blues harmonica to students of all ages and ability levels. He also teaches amplified harmonica.

He is available for private lessons as well as group classes.