The Great Lakes Saxophone Quartet is a classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their unique sound and virtuosic performances for over three decades. The quartet was founded in 1986 by four accomplished saxophonists who shared a passion for chamber music and a desire to explore the possibilities of the saxophone as a classical instrument. The founding members of the Great Lakes Saxophone Quartet were John Nichol, Joseph Lulloff, Timothy McAllister, and Andrew Speight. All four musicians had extensive experience as soloists and ensemble performers, and they quickly established a reputation for their technical precision, expressive playing, and innovative programming. Over the years, the Great Lakes Saxophone Quartet has undergone some personnel changes, but the group has always maintained a commitment to excellence and a dedication to expanding the repertoire for saxophone quartet. Today, the quartet consists of Joseph Lulloff on soprano saxophone, Timothy McAllister on alto saxophone, Andrew Bishop on tenor saxophone, and Jonathan Nichol on baritone saxophone. One of the highlights of the Great Lakes Saxophone Quartet's career was their performance at the World Saxophone Congress in Valencia, Spain in 1997. The quartet was one of only a handful of ensembles selected to perform at the prestigious event, and their performance was met with enthusiastic acclaim from both the audience and their fellow musicians. In addition to their international performances, the Great Lakes Saxophone Quartet has also been recognized for their recordings. Their album "Four by Four" was nominated for a Grammy Award in 2002, and their album "GLSQ" was named one of the top classical recordings of the year by the Detroit Free Press. The Great Lakes Saxophone Quartet has also been committed to commissioning new works for saxophone quartet, and they have premiered numerous pieces by contemporary composers. One of their most notable commissions was "Concerto for Saxophone Quartet and Orchestra" by Pulitzer Prize-winning composer William Bolcom. The quartet premiered the piece with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in 2000, and it has since been performed by orchestras around the world. In addition to their performances and recordings, the Great Lakes Saxophone Quartet has also been active in education and outreach. The quartet has conducted masterclasses and workshops at universities and music schools throughout the United States, and they have worked with young musicians through programs such as the Detroit Symphony Orchestra's Civic Youth Ensembles. Overall, the Great Lakes Saxophone Quartet has established itself as one of the premier classical music ensembles in the world. With their technical mastery, expressive playing, and commitment to expanding the repertoire for saxophone quartet, the quartet has inspired audiences and musicians alike for over three decades.

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