Serious about saxophone

decoste to host Proteus Saxophone Quartet as part of Classical Series

PICTOU, N.S. – Proteus Saxophone Quartet, a highenergy modular ensemble, has been described as having “incredible precision and a great deal of emotion.”

They perform Thursday, Feb. 27 at 7:30 p.m. at Pictou’s decoste Performing Arts Centre as part of their Classical Series.

Originating from all over Canada, the members united through their combined curiosity and love for exploring chamber music specifically written for the saxophone quartet.

Born from a shared love for exploring chamber music together, the Proteus Saxophone Quartet was formed in 2011 in Paris while the members were studying in French conservatories. Each musician is a soloist and they are active as performers and teachers in their respective communities.

Proteus unites throughout the year for intensive projects, which have taken them across Western Canada, the U.S. and France. The quartet has recently finished touring across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.

They have been fortunate to work closely with Canadian and international composers through workshops, commissions, and music festivals.

Tommy Davis currently lives in Montreal, where he is active in the improvised music scene, as well as working with many different ensembles and a growing teaching studio. Holly Decaigny divides her time between Edmonton, where she will be pursuing a DMA in saxophone performance, and Calgary, where she is an active freelance musician and teacher. Mark Michalak lives in Calgary. He teaches a diverse studio of students from beginners to University level, as well as being an active music teacher in the school boards as a clinician and a substitute teacher. Michael Morimoto lives in Vancouver, B.C., where he has a successful career as a music instrument repair technician, as well as a growing teaching studio, and freelance musician.

For tickets to the performance contact the box office Monday to Friday, 11:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. at 902-485-8848 or 1-800-353-5338, visit decostecentre.ca/tickets or drop by at 99 Water St., Pictou.

Tickets are $25 or $22 for members; students are admitted free. Contact your local branch of the PARL to inquire about the availability of the free AAFE show pass.