The University of Houston Saxophone Quartet is a classical music ensemble that has been captivating audiences with their unique sound and exceptional performances for over three decades. The quartet was founded in 1988 by Dr. Karen Wylie, who was the saxophone professor at the University of Houston at the time. The ensemble was initially formed as a way to provide performance opportunities for the saxophone students at the university, but it quickly gained popularity and became a staple in the Houston music scene. The quartet has had several members over the years, but the current lineup consists of four talented musicians: Dan Gelok (soprano saxophone), Todd Oxford (alto saxophone), Joel Love (tenor saxophone), and Michael Brockman (baritone saxophone). Each member brings their unique style and expertise to the group, resulting in a cohesive and dynamic sound that has earned them critical acclaim. The University of Houston Saxophone Quartet has performed at numerous prestigious venues and events, including the World Saxophone Congress, the North American Saxophone Alliance Conference, and the Texas Music Educators Association Convention. They have also been featured on several radio and television programs, including NPR's "Performance Today" and Houston Public Media's "The Front Row." One of the quartet's most notable performances was their appearance at the 2014 World Saxophone Congress in France. They were one of only a handful of American ensembles invited to perform at the event, which is considered the premier international gathering of saxophonists. The quartet's performance was met with rave reviews, and they were praised for their technical precision and musicality. In addition to their performances, the University of Houston Saxophone Quartet has also received numerous awards and accolades. They have been the recipients of several grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, which have allowed them to commission new works and collaborate with other artists. They have also won several competitions, including the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition and the Coleman Chamber Music Competition. The quartet's repertoire is diverse and includes works from a variety of composers and genres. They have commissioned and premiered works by several contemporary composers, including David Maslanka, John Mackey, and Marc Mellits. They also perform classical works by composers such as Bach, Mozart, and Debussy, as well as jazz and popular music arrangements. The University of Houston Saxophone Quartet has made a significant contribution to the saxophone community through their performances, recordings, and educational outreach. They have released several albums, including "American Voices," which features works by American composers, and "Saxophone Quartets of the 20th Century," which showcases works from the quartet's extensive repertoire. The quartet is also committed to education and has conducted masterclasses and workshops at universities and music schools across the country. They have worked with students of all ages and skill levels, from elementary school students to professional musicians. Their educational outreach has been recognized by the Texas Music Educators Association, which awarded them the "Outstanding Service to Music Education" award in 2016.

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