Biography
Described by Pan M 360 as possessing “a beautiful, expressive, and silky sound” with the ability to “make the lines sing in a virtuosic way,” Chinese-Canadian classical saxophonist Jason Xu has distinguished himself as a leading artist of his generation. Renowned for his emotional depth and connection, Jason strives to inspire and forge profound bonds with his audience through the transformative power of music.
In 2024, Jason made history as the first saxophonist to win the Grand Prize at The OSM Competition, the most prestigious classical music competition for Canadian Musicians. His career as a solo performer has taken him to some of the world’s most iconic venues across the United States, Canada, and China, including Carnegie Hall, the Montreal Symphony House, the Grand Theatre of Dalian Development Area, the Eastman School of Music, the University of Michigan, McGill University, and the Steinway Piano Gallery Toronto, among others.
Jason has earned numerous accolades, a few to mention includes First Prize in both the 2021 American Protégé International Woodwinds and Brass Competition and the 2021 IMFC Concerto Competition, as well as Second Prize in the 2022 Music International Grand Prix Competition.
As a member of the historic Symphony Band at the University of Michigan, Jason collaborates with distinguished conductors, including Jason Fettig, former director of the US President’s Own Marine Band. He has also appeared as a soloist with the Montreal Symphony Orchestra, performing under the baton of esteemed conductors such as Jacques Lacombe.
Jason is currently studying at the world-renowned institution, the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre, and Dance with Professor Timothy McAllister. He has also honed his craft under the guidance of internationally acclaimed, Grammy-winning saxophone virtuosos, including Timothy McAllister, Nobuya Sugawa, Kenneth Tse, Vincent David, Otis Murphy, and Chien-Kwan Lin.