Role

:

Ensemble

Genre

:

Chamber

 

 

Orchestral

 

The Apollo Saxophone Quartet is a renowned classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their unique sound and innovative approach to music for over three decades. The quartet was founded in 1985 by four talented saxophonists, Rob Buckland, Andy Scott, Simon Willescroft, and Carl Raven, who shared a passion for exploring the possibilities of the saxophone as a classical instrument. The quartet's founding members all had impressive backgrounds in music. Rob Buckland had studied at the Royal Northern College of Music and had performed with the London Symphony Orchestra, while Andy Scott had studied at the Royal College of Music and had performed with the London Sinfonietta. Simon Willescroft had studied at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and had performed with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, and Carl Raven had studied at the Royal Academy of Music and had performed with the BBC Symphony Orchestra. The Apollo Saxophone Quartet quickly gained a reputation for their innovative approach to music, which blended classical, jazz, and contemporary styles. They were also known for their virtuosic performances, which showcased the full range of the saxophone's capabilities. The quartet's unique sound and style quickly caught the attention of audiences and critics alike, and they soon became one of the most sought-after classical music ensembles in the UK. Over the years, the Apollo Saxophone Quartet has performed at some of the world's most prestigious venues, including the Royal Albert Hall, the Barbican Centre, and the Sydney Opera House. They have also collaborated with some of the world's most renowned musicians, including the pianist Joanna MacGregor, the guitarist John Williams, and the jazz saxophonist Stan Getz. One of the quartet's most notable performances was their appearance at the 1994 Proms, where they performed a program of contemporary music that included works by Steve Martland, Michael Nyman, and John Adams. The performance was widely praised for its energy and virtuosity, and it helped to cement the quartet's reputation as one of the most exciting and innovative classical music ensembles of their time. The Apollo Saxophone Quartet has also been recognized with numerous awards and accolades over the years. In 1995, they were awarded the prestigious Royal Philharmonic Society Award for Chamber Music, and in 2001, they were awarded the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers, and Authors Award for Best Contemporary Classical Composition for their album "Playing Away." They have also been featured on numerous recordings, including their critically acclaimed album "Crossing Borders," which was released in 2015. Despite their many achievements, the Apollo Saxophone Quartet remains committed to exploring new possibilities in music and pushing the boundaries of what is possible with the saxophone. They continue to perform and record new works by contemporary composers, and they are always looking for new ways to collaborate with other musicians and artists. In conclusion, the Apollo Saxophone Quartet is a truly remarkable classical music ensemble that has made a significant contribution to the world of music over the past three decades. Their innovative approach to music, virtuosic performances, and commitment to exploring new possibilities have earned them a well-deserved reputation as one of the most exciting and innovative classical music ensembles of their time.

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