Saxophone Masterclass with the Kenari Quartet (2023)
Rarely do we have the opportunity to offer young saxophonists from our community an opportunity to learn from some of the greatest artists performing on their instrument! Join our CMNW Protégé Project Alumni, the Kenari Quartet, as they mentor and coach outstanding young musicians from our region, and learn more about Adolphe Sax’s unique instrument and the skills required to play it well.
Lincoln Recital Hall, Rm. 75, Portland State University
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Artists
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Kenari Quartet
Ensemble
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Bob Eason, soprano saxophone
Kyle Baldwin, alto saxophone
Corey Dundee, tenor saxophone
Steven Banks, baritone saxophoneApplauded for their “flat-out amazing” performances and “stunning virtuosity” (Cleveland Classical), the highly acclaimed Kenari Quartet delivers inspiring performances that transform the perception of the saxophone. The quartet aims to highlight the instrument’s remarkable versatility by presenting meticulously crafted repertoire from all periods of classical and contemporary music.
The Kenari Quartet has found a home performing on many of the premiere chamber music series in the United States, often serving as the first ensemble of its kind to be presented. Recent engagements include appearances at Chamber Music Northwest, the Grand Teton Music Festival, and Chamber Music Tulsa. Advocating passionately for the music of living composers, Kenari has given world premieres of new works by Mischa Zupko, Joel Love, and David Salleras, and in 2016 the quartet received a Classical Commissioning Grant from Chamber Music America that allowed them to commission a new work from Corey Dundee, Kenari’s very own tenor saxophonist. The quartet has also collaborated with the Imani Winds, presenting the world premiere of J.P. Redmond’s 9x9: Nine Pieces for Nonet in 2018.
Kenari Quartet’s name is derived from the Malay word “kenari,” which may be translated as “songbird.” Expanding on the age-old idea that birds communicate through song, the Kenari Quartet seeks to exemplify this concept through concert hall performances. By not only connecting with their audiences via song, but also through physical movement, Kenari amplifies the standard concert experience with their striking visual communication and powerful stage presence. The Kenari Quartet is represented by Jean Schreiber Management.