"I was so happy to have Emma's excellent tone and musicianship on the palette of the score.”
Bill Whelan, composer of ‘Riverdance’
“McPhilemy drew the attention and respect of both orchestra and audience. With seemingly effortless control she manipulated her tone from crystalline transparency to molten gold, coupled with sheer presence and huge musical integrity”.
Andy Scott, composer and saxophonist.
Review of Harrold Saxophone Concerto with BBC Philharmonic Orchestra
‘Clarinet and Saxophone Society’ magazine.
Emma McPhilemy (UK) is a touring saxophonist known for her distinctive, versatile sound. Drawing inspiration from a wide range of musical styles, she performs across an exceptionally diverse set of genres. She is endorsed by Selmer Paris and Vandoren UK.
As an educator, Emma has appeared as a guest at the Palmela International Saxophone Festival and has led masterclasses for postgraduate and undergraduate students at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, the Royal Northern College of Music, and other established UK institutions. She has also delivered classes at Berklee (USA) and the University of British Columbia (Canada). Emma was recently the Associate Saxophone Examiner at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, where she was also a visiting tutor.
Recent performance highlights include her debut concerto appearance with the BBC Philharmonic, international touring as Musical Director and saxophone soloist in Bill Whelan’s Riverdance, an Australian tour with her latest album repertoire, and debut concerto performances in Portugal and Italy.
Upcoming projects include a concerto recording for the internationally renowned label Chandos Records, featuring a new work by UK composer Andy Scott. She will also return to the USA for further touring and teaching engagements.