Fischoff Competition Gold Medal Winners: LOTUS Quartet

Jerk Meagher, Baritone Saxophone

GianCarlo Lay, Soprano Saxophone

Johnathan Lee, Alto Saxophone

Keegan Ewan, Tenor Saxophone

Embark on a musical journey with Lotus Quartet, an extraordinary saxophone ensemble composed of four elite students from Arizona State University. Infusing passion and innovation into every note, Lotus Quartet captivates audiences with a harmonious blend of classical elegance, contemporary flair, and the dynamic energy that defines their unique sound.

LOTUS Quartet is an award-winning saxophone quartet from Arizona State University, comprised of GianCarlo Lay, Johnathan Lee, Keegan Ewan, and Jerick Meagher. Formed in 2022, they are active in the Phoenix area, giving various community performances year round. Also an active participant in the competition circuit, LOTUS was recently named Gold Medalist in the Senior Wind Division of the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition. Other achievements include 1st Prize of the MTNA National Chamber Music Winds Competition and 2nd Prize of the Coltman Chamber Music Competition. LOTUS regularly performs a wide variety of musical genres including classical, jazz, and pop, and strives to connect with audiences in unique ways by incorporating elements of movement and visuals during their performances.

Distinguished by their seamless transitions across a spectrum of genres, including classical, jazz, and pop, the LOTUS Quartet is dedicated to forging a profound connection with their audience. Their mission extends beyond mere entertainment, as they strive to create a remarkable and personalized experience for all who partake in their musical journey. Through their artistry, the LOTUS Quartet seeks to elevate the concert experience, leaving an indelible impression on the hearts of their listeners.

 

Program (with timings)

Gabriel Pierné (1863-1937) – Introduction et Variations sur une Ronde Populaire (1934) (8’)

John Fitz Rogers (1963-) – Prodigal Child (2004) (10’)

Joel Love (1980-) – In Memoriam (2015) (12’)

I. Threnody

II. Adieu

Fernande Decruck (1896-1954) – Variations Saxophoniques (1939)

I. Andante espressivo (1′)

II. Stesso Tempo, molto espressivo e sostenuto (1′)

III. Allegro moderato energico (1′)

IV. Allegro ma non troppo (1′)

V. Moderato e senza rigore, molto espressivo (2′)

VI. Fugue – Allegro moderato con ritmo (2′)

Intermission (15′)

Clint Bleil (1994-) – The Jig (2018) (4′)

GianCarlo Lay (2003-) – Rush Hour (2024) (4′)

Jennifer Higdon (1962-) Short Stories (1996)

I. Chase (4′)

II. Lullaby (4′)

Chick Corea (1941-2021) – Spain (1998) (5′) arr. Naomu Soeda

Guillermo Lago (1960-) – Ciudades: Köln (2011) (4′)

Gordon Goodwin (1954-) – Diffusion (2006)

I. Hip Hop (4′)