Since April 2022, I have been fortunate to be a founding member of the Crius Saxophone Quartet – a project that includes Mike Tremblay, Petr Cancura, and Catherine Gendron. As we have dug into some classic saxophone quartet repertoire, some newer material, and written some of our own music, there are some things that I’ve learned from working with this group.

1. The fun is in the trust. Playing in a saxophone quartet becomes so much more fun when you really trust the performers around you. From tuning, to tempo, to feel – when you’re riding the line of control, and feel supported by the other players, the music gets so exciting!
2. Endurance is key! I’ve played around with reed strengths, cuts, and my ReedGeek since starting to play with Crius. We play a variety of music from Piazzolla, to Gordon Goodwin, and I need a reed that I can play really warm and delicate, as well as bark when I need it to. I’m still using my Gonzalez 627 Local Jazz reeds, but I work on them a little more than usual. I also use the Balam Strap from Boston Sax Shop, which lets me carry my horn around for extended periods of time.
3. Playing in a saxophone quartet has reinforced my love for the baritone saxophone chair. Laying down bass lines, playing solo parts, and ensemble sections – I get to do it all. I often get the most unique parts, and rarely get to take breaks. I love those aspects of the bottom voice in the group.

Have you played in saxophone quartets? Is there repertoire that you’re drawn to?