Elise Hall (1853-1924) was America’s first female concert saxophonist; she defied the social norms by mastering the saxophone—at the time considered an instrument only for men—and performing in concerts in the United States and Europe with professional musicians of the highest caliber. She was the first woman to play with the all-male Boston Symphony Orchestra, for their performance of L’Arlessiene in 1910.As one of the most important proponents of concert saxophone in the mid-1800’s to early 1900’s, she commissioned French composers to create orchestral and chamber works that either feature or include the saxophone.

Despite her significant contributions to the inclusion of the saxophone in classical music, Elise Hall has only recently received the recognition she deserves. To honor Hall’s achievements, Paris saxophonist and conservatory professor Nicolas Prost has initiated the staging of over fifty tribute concerts, by music ensembles around the world, from October 15 to December 15, 2024.  Bamboo and Brass LTD is thrilled to be part of the “Tribute to Elise Hall Celebrating Women Saxophonists and Composers Around the World.”  Our concert includes a variety of saxophone-centric pieces, many of them composed and arranged by women musicians.

Bamboo and Brass LTD also welcomes playwright and author Betsy Hanson, who will “become” Elise Hall and share vignettes about the saxophone pioneer’s life.