Cerus Quartet plays Sound Garden throughout Glen Arbor area

From staff reports

The Glen Arbor Arts Center (GAAC) is thrilled to host the Cerus Quartet as Musicians‑in‑Residence from June 8–20, as part of their Manitou Music Series, in partnership with Interlochen Public Radio’s (IPR) Sound Garden Project.

Emerging as one of the most compelling chamber ensembles of their generation, the Cerus Quartet brings the dynamic sound of the saxophone quartet to the Glen Arbor area. Their repertoire spans contemporary works and transcriptions of classical masterworks, combining innovation, versatility, and engaging visual elements to create a distinctive performance experience.

The Cerus Quartet has earned multiple prestigious honors, including first prize at the 2024 MTNA National Chamber Music Competition, the 2025 Concert Artists Guild Louis and Susan Meisel Competition, and a Gold Medal at the 2025 Fischoff Chamber Music Competition. They have premiered works by Jennifer Higdon, Karalyn Schubring, and Joey Karz, with a new commission by Ryan Lindveit underway.

The quartet includes Roberto Campa on Soprano Saxophone, Laura Ramsay on Alto Saxophone, Kyle Kato on Tenor Saxophone, and Samuel Dishon on Baritone Saxophone.

During their two‑week residency, the Cerus Quartet will offer immersive musical experiences around the Glen Arbor and Empire area, from public performances to school and library visits, open rehearsals, and “Sound Samples” (spontaneous musical interactions in community spaces). This residency is part of the Sound Garden Project, which is dedicated to “planting classical music in unexpected places,” from beaches and parks to porches and public spaces.

Audience members are also invited to attend two open rehearsals, offering a unique behind-the-scenes look at how musicians prepare for performance. These interactive sessions provide an opportunity to observe the creative process, hear works in progress, ask questions, and chat with the musicians. Open rehearsals are especially popular with musicians, music students, and anyone curious about the artistry and collaboration that bring a performance to life. The open rehearsals will take place on Wednesday, June 10, from 6–7:30 pm at the Old Settlers Park Gazebo in Maple City, and Wednesday, June 17, from 6–7:30 pm at the River Club Outdoor Stage in Glen Arbor. Both events are weather dependent and will be canceled in the event of rain.

The residency includes two concerts. The first will take place on the Glen Arbor Arts Center front porch (or in the gallery in case of rain) on Saturday, June 13, at 2 pm. No tickets are required, and attendees are encouraged to bring a chair. The second culminating concert will take place at the Glen Arbor Township Hall on Friday, June 19, at 7 pm. Tickets are required for this free event, with a suggested $25 donation to support Manitou Music. Both concerts will feature special guests and Beach Bards hosts Norm Wheeler and Anne-Marie Oomen, sharing stories and reflections on Glen Arbor’s history and cultural life.

Throughout their residency, the Cerus Quartet will create joyful, spontaneous encounters with music through a variety of free public events. These performances are designed to surprise, delight, and deepen community connection.

Residency Schedule Highlights

(All events free and open to the public unless noted)

• Sunrise Sounds: Wake up to morning music at favorite Glen Arbor locations
• Open Rehearsals: Get a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process from the Old Settlers Park Gazebo in Maple City and the stage at River Club in Glen Arbor
• Sound Samples: Interactive musical experiences in parks, shops, and other

unexpected places

• Front Porch Music: GAAC Front Porch | Gallery if rain with special guests Beach Bards hosts Norm Wheeler and Anne-Marie Oomen, sharing stories and reflections on Glen Arbor’s history and cultural life. | Saturday, June 13, 2-3 pm. Free – bring a chair
• Sunset Sounds: A dreamy evening performance at Empire Beach
• Musical Story Time: Family-friendly music at the Glen Lake Community Library
• Glen Lake Community School Visit: An afternoon of music for Glen Lake students, including performances on the playground and during school pickup
• Culminating Concert: A free final performance at the Glen Arbor Township Hall, Glen Arbor with special guests Beach Bards hosts Norm Wheeler and Anne-Marie Oomen, sharing stories and reflections on Glen Arbor’s history and cultural life. Friday, June 19, 7–8:30 pm. Tickets required. Free with suggested $25 donation

This residency invites community members of all ages to encounter chamber music in inspiring, unexpected ways, fostering connection, creativity, and joy throughout the Glen Arbor area. For the most up-to-date schedule and final concert free ticket information, visit GlenArborArt.org/product/musicians-in-residence-cerus-quartet. Or follow the GAAC on social media.