Twin Cities Saxophone Series:
A Celebration of Saxophone Artistry at Schmitt Music
Mark your calendars, saxophone enthusiasts! Schmitt Music is proud to present the Twin Cities Saxophone Series—an exciting lineup of live performances featuring some of the finest saxophonists in the region. From November through April, our Bloomington Performance Hall will come alive with the vibrant sounds of world-class saxophone artistry. Whether you're a saxophonist yourself or simply a lover of live music, these events are not to be missed!
Each concert offers a unique musical experience, featuring a diverse lineup of talented artists who will showcase the versatility and emotional depth of the saxophone across genres. Here’s a glimpse of the artists and upcoming performances:
Twin Cities Saxophone Series Lineup:
Saturday, November 2nd – Reboleo Duo | 11:00 AM: Together, Mariana Airaudo and Preston Duncan form Reboleo Duo, captivating audiences with their unique blend of piano and saxophone, showcasing their passion for tango and chamber music. Their performances, characterized by virtuosity and sensitivity, resonate with audiences around the world.
Saturday, November 16th – Matt Patnode | 2:00 PM: Matthew Patnode is an active performer in both the classical and jazz saxophone idioms. He is Professor of Music at the Challey School of Music at NDSU in Fargo where he teaches saxophone, jazz ensemble, and other jazz courses. He holds the BM degree from the State University of New York at Potsdam, the Prix Vermeil from the Conservatoire National de Bordeaux, France; and the MM and DMA in performance from Arizona State University. His major saxophone teachers include James Stoltie, Jean-Marie Londeix, and Joseph Wytko.
Saturday, November 30th – Yiqun Chen | 11:00 AM: Dr. Yiqun Chen is a versatile saxophonist and pedagogue originally from Southern California. Dr. Chen performed throughout the United States and internationally with appearances in Japan, China, Belgium, and Croatia. Recently, Dr. Chen performed at the XIX World Saxophone Congress in Las Palmas, Gran Carnaria. As a soloist, he has been featured with the Hong Kong Youth Saxophone Ensemble, the La Prima Vera Youth Symphony Orchestra, the University of Iowa Concert Band, the South Dakota State University Wind Ensemble, and the South Dakota State University Concert Band.
Wednesday, February 18th – Lucia Sarmiento | 6:00 PM: Lucia Sarmiento is a Saxophone player, Composer, and Educator based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Her music is the expression of a diverse musical upbringing: the integration of jazz, funk, pop and Latin American rhythms fused with her own sensibility for angular, yet beautiful melodies. In her debut album “Escape” (Spring 2024), Lucia leads a synth-heavy jazz quintet with the tenor saxophone. Additionally, she introduces delicate vocal arrangements, a flute choir and the EWI, like sprinkles of textures and colors in her playful jazz compositions.
Saturday, March 15th – Aaron Hedenstrom | 11:00 AM: Jazz saxophonist and composer Aaron Hedenstrom has an exceptional ability to craft memorable melodies and intricate improvisations. His performance will feature original compositions that highlight his deep connection to jazz traditions with a modern edge.
Saturday, March 29th – Scott Sandberg | 11:00 AM: Scott Sanberg, a versatile performer in both classical and jazz realms, is known for his engaging stage presence. Expect an inspiring performance filled with energy and technical prowess.
Saturday, April 5th – Brian Hanegan | 11:00 AM: Dr. Brian Hanegan is an internationally-touring saxophonist, composer, and bandleader from Sioux Falls, SD. As an Associate Professor and Director of Jazz Studies at the Augustana University School of Music, Hanegan directs the Northlanders Jazz Ensemble, Blues & Gold Jazz Combo, teaches studio saxophone, jazz improvisation, and the history of jazz, blues, and rock.
Event Details:
- Location: Schmitt Music Bloomington Performance Hall
- Admission: Free
- Parking: Ample parking available on site
This series offers a wonderful opportunity to experience the saxophone in a variety of musical styles, performed by some of the most talented musicians in the area. Whether you're a saxophone student, a fan of live performances, or simply curious about the instrument, you'll find inspiration and enjoyment in every concert. To see the full listing of performances visit our news and resources page.
Visit our events page to learn more and RSVP HERE: https://www.schmittmusic.com/pages/events