Chicago Saxophone Quartet ~Nois Celebrates 9 Years of Innovative Music

The acclaimed ensemble has premiered over 120 new works and performed over 200 concerts across the U.S.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Chicago-based saxophone quartet ~Nois, founded in 2016, has become a leading force in contemporary classical music. Dedicated to championing new compositions and building community through their innovative performances, the ensemble has premiered over 120 works, presented over 200 concerts, and collaborated with renowned composers and artists. As proud residents of Chicago, ~Nois has also been deeply involved in supporting local youth through their Young Creators Fellowship program.

Why it matters

~Nois Quartet's success highlights the growing popularity and relevance of the saxophone quartet format in classical music. Their commitment to commissioning new works, engaging diverse audiences, and nurturing the next generation of composers and musicians makes them an important voice in the contemporary music scene.

The details

Comprised of saxophonists Julian Velasco, Natalia Warthen, Jordan Lulloff, and János Csontos, ~Nois Quartet has been praised for their 'fiendishly good and fiendishly goofy' performances that 'legitimize the saxophone quartet as a premier ensemble formation for classical music.' In addition to their prolific output of new commissions, the group has held residencies at top academic institutions and won prizes at prestigious chamber music competitions.

  • ~Nois Quartet was founded in 2016.
  • The ensemble has presented over 200 performances in their nine years of music-making.
  • Their latest album 'What is ~Nois' is set to release in April 2026.

The players

~Nois Quartet

A Chicago-based saxophone quartet dedicated to championing new music and building community through innovative, inclusive, and exceptional musical experiences.

Julian Velasco

One of the four saxophonists that make up the ~Nois Quartet ensemble.

Natalia Warthen

One of the four saxophonists that make up the ~Nois Quartet ensemble.

Jordan Lulloff

One of the four saxophonists that make up the ~Nois Quartet ensemble.

János Csontos

One of the four saxophonists that make up the ~Nois Quartet ensemble.

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What’s next

~Nois Quartet's latest album 'What is ~Nois' is set to release on New Amsterdam Records in April 2026.

The takeaway

~Nois Quartet's success over the past nine years demonstrates the growing popularity and relevance of the saxophone quartet format in contemporary classical music. Their commitment to commissioning new works, engaging diverse audiences, and nurturing the next generation of composers and musicians makes them an important voice in the field.