The Akiko Saxophone Quartet are an award-winning Saxophone Quartet based in Manchester. The quartet represents the modern-day saxophone quartet and aims to push the boundaries of the ensemble’s standard repertoire. Akiko’s repertoire ranges from the classical tradition to jazz and to more modern contemporary works. Since the group’s formation in 2021, they have been involved in concerts and recitals across the UK. In recent times, Akiko have opened the Lake District Music’s Spring Concert Series, been spotlight artists at the Lancashire Music Society and featured at the Huddersfield Saxophone Day in 2022. Akiko gave the UK premiere of Sally Beamish’s ‘Opus California’, with the composer saying that Akiko were ‘the perfect match with the tonal, lyrical, and reflective qualities of her piece.’ The quartet were the winners of the Fewkes Wind Chamber Music Prize in March of 2023 and the June Emerson Launchpad Prize in 2023. Akiko have been announced as emerging artists on the Stoller Hall Emerging Artists Scheme for the 2024-2025 season, for which they have commissioned a new work by composer, Jenni Watson. This new piece is part of a series of works by the composer focussing on the theme of nature, and one’s connection to the world around them. The members of Akiko have regular engagements across the North-West of England. They each aim to bring awareness of the classical saxophone tradition. With many bespoke arrangements by their Baritone Saxophonist, Jasmine Brown, Akiko ensure a varied and progressive repertoire in each performance.