Jonathan Radford

Recognised for his “virtuosity and engaging musicianship” (Gramophone Magazine), Jonathan Radford is regarded as one of the leading classical saxophonists of his generation. Passionate about showcasing the saxophone’s versatility across classical and contemporary repertoire, Jonathan delights his audiences with his characteristically energetic and expressive performances. 

Currently pursuing his PhD as an RCM Studentship holder, Jonathan’s research focuses on the influential American saxophonist Rudy Wiedoeft. Previously, Jonathan studied at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique de Paris (CNSMDP) with Claude Delangle. In 2018 he was awarded the Mills Williams Junior Fellowship at the RCM, studying with Kyle Horch.

In demand internationally as a concerto soloist, recitalist and chamber musician, Jonathan has performed in some of the world’s most prestigious venues. Recent highlights include Grieg Hall (Bergen), Philharmonie de Paris, Seoul Arts Center (South Korea), Bridgewater Hall (Manchester), Southbank Centre - Purcell Room, Queen Elizabeth Hall and Wigmore Hall (London).

Jonathan features as ‘One to Watch’ in Gramophone Magazine and as a ‘Rising Star’ in BBC Music Magazine. He is an international prize-winner, with notable awards including Commonwealth Musician of the Year and Gold Medallist in the Royal Over-Seas League Competition (UK, 2018), SaxOpen International Competition (France, 2015) and Concordo Internazionale de Musica Marco (Italy, 2013).

Jonathan’s debut album, ‘The Saxophone Craze – Homage to Rudy Wiedoeft’ (Champs Hill Records, 2022) was released to critical acclaim, receiving a 5* review from BBC Music Magazine. As a guest on broadcasting networks, Jonathan has featured on BBC Radio 3, France Musique and Scala Radio.

Jonathan is devoted to the development of new music for the saxophone, having commissioned and premiered works by Cheryl Frances-Hoad, Betsy Jolas, Luis Naón and Raymond Yiu.

Jonathan regularly gives classes at the Royal College of Music and has given masterclasses at the Royal Academy of Music, Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, Trinity Laban Conservatoire, Chetham’s School of Music and Melbourne Conservatorium. Jonathan is a Vandoren Paris and Henri Selmer Paris saxophone artist.

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