Seoyun Baek piano
Seventeenth Church of Christ, Scientist, Chicago, 55 E. Wacker Drive
Founded in 2022, the Cerus Quartet is committed to redefining the saxophone quartet through dynamic programming that blends contemporary works with classical transcriptions. Their mission is to elevate the saxophone’s role in 21st-century classical music with engaging performances and innovative visual elements.
Cerus has premiered works by composers such as Jennifer Higdon, Karalyn Schubring, and Joey Karz, with a major commission from Ryan Lindveit debuting in 2025. Their unique pairing of new music and classical staples has earned them acclaim and top honors, including the 2025 Concert Artists Guild Louis and Susan Meisel Competition, 2025 Fischoff Gold Medal, 2024 MTNA First Prize, and 2023 Briggs Michigan Prize.
Recent highlights include performances at the Walla Walla Chamber Music Festival, appearances as concerto soloists with the University of Michigan Symphony Band Chamber Winds, and an upcoming residency with the IPR Sound Garden Project.
Based in Ann Arbor, the quartet features Roberto Campa (soprano), Laura Ramsay (alto), Kyle Kato (tenor), and Samuel Dishon (baritone). Named after the myth of Cerus—a wild bull transformed into a symbol of beauty—the ensemble embodies the same spirit: channeling raw power into expressive artistry.
The concerts are generously sponsored by the Paul M. Angell Family Foundation, the Illinois Arts Council and by individual donors.