BLAIR/MERTENS DUO
Gillian Blair and Nathan Mertens met in 2015 while studying at the Université Européenne de Saxophone in Gap, France. The duo have seen their friendship grow into an exciting musical collaboration, and have recently made their debut performance together in Tokyo, Japan.
The duo have commissioned several new works for two saxophones and piano from composers including Lucy Armstrong (UK), Zack Browning (USA), Rob Buckland (UK) and Andrew Boss (USA). In July, 2018 they began recording their first studio album of the works they have commissioned, as well as performing around the UK and at the World Saxophone Congress in Croatia.
Official Website of American Saxophonist Nathan Mertens
In 2019 the duo gave a masterclass and recital tour in the USA, visiting universities in Texas, Arkansas and Oklahoma. Their trip culminated in several recitals at the North American Saxophone Alliance Region 4 Conference at the University of Arkansas where they gave the North American premiere of Andy Scott's double concerto; 'Tjuonavagge'.
Performing Andy Scott's "Tjuounavagge" at the North American Saxophone Alliance Conference Opening Concert with Chris Knighten and the University of Arkansas Saxophone Ensemble
