Joseph Girard

Joe Girard’s solo and chamber performances have taken him around the country and across the globe. He has appeared as a soloist with the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, Schwob Philharmonic, Reno Philharmonic, Dallas Winds, University of Michigan Symphony Band, Eastman Wind Ensemble and the Paris Républican Guard Band, among others. Dr. Girard enjoys an active performing career as tenor saxophonist with the Sinta Quartet (SQ). SQ received first prize at the 2013 Concert Artists Guild (CAG) Victor Elmaleh Competition in New York City. Other awards with SQ include Gold Medal at the 2018 Fischoff International Chamber Music Competition, First Prize at the 2017 M-Prize International Chamber Music Competition, the Alice Coleman Grand Prize at the 2013 Coleman Chamber Music Competition, and First Place at the 2012 North American Saxophone Alliance Quartet Competition. SQ released their debut CD, Collider, in 2019 and their second album, Ex Machina, in 2020, both can be found on all streaming platforms. The group has been featured on WQXR’s Young Artists Showcase with Bob Sherman, and their live performances are broadcast regularly on American Public Media’s Performance Today. SQ is professionally managed by New York City based General Arts Touring. As an educator, Dr. Girard has taught masterclasses and clinics across the United States, including at the Brevard Music Center, University of Michigan, Eastman School of Music, University of Arizona, University of Massachusetts Amherst, and the University of Miami Frost School of Music among others, and internationally at the Conservatori de les Illes Balears, Conservatoire de Paris, and Conservatoire de Versailles. Dr. Girard co-authored the publication Chops 3: The Sinta Quartet Method, a complete guide to rehearsal techniques, fundamentals, and chamber music development for beginning through advanced saxophone quartets.