About Us
Play. Learn. Connect.
At Manchester Saxophone Academy, our mission is to bring together saxophonists of all backgrounds - from first-time players to aspiring professionals and passionate amateurs - to play, learn and connect. We create opportunities for growth through specialist training, ensemble playing, and inspirational events with guest artists from around the world, while supporting local musicians, teachers and organisations. By building a trusted hub for all things saxophone, we aim to foster a vibrant community in Manchester that celebrates saxophone excellence and innovation.
What We Offer
​​One-to-one saxophone lessons for all ages and abilities, delivered by DBS checked, professional saxophone specialists.
A dedicated pathway for young saxophonists preparing for conservatoire study.
Specialist training for woodwind tutors for whom the saxophone is a secondary instrument.
Chamber music play days that encourage collaboration and provide professional feedback.
Inspirational events featuring guest artists from around the world, offering opportunities for artistic growth and shared musical experiences through our inclusive community; The Hive.
Support for local musicians, teachers, and organisations to help them thrive.
Opportunities to celebrate and connect with Manchester’s saxophone community - building on its history to shape its future as a centre for excellence and innovation.
Meet Our Director
Gillian Blair
Gillian Blair is an internationally recognised saxophonist and educator whose career spans performance, teaching, and creative leadership. Praised for her “flawless and accomplished” performances (Peterborough Telegraph) and “honest and genuine music-making” (D’Addario Competition), she has appeared at major festivals and venues including the BBC Proms, World Saxophone Congress, EurSax, and concert stages across Europe, Asia, North America and the UK. As a soloist she has performed with ensembles such as the Band of the Coldstream Guards and the Arch Sinfonia, and she is a member of the award-winning Borealis Saxophone Quartet and Polaris Duo.
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Alongside her performing career, Gillian is a dedicated teacher with a strong track record in nurturing the next generation of musicians. She has been a Saxophone Tutor at the Junior Royal Northern College of Music since 2017, and has also taught at the Universities of Sheffield, Huddersfield, and Bangor. She regularly leads masterclasses and workshops across the UK and overseas, and is passionate about helping saxophonists of all ages develop their skills and confidence.
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At Manchester Saxophone Academy, students and community members benefit from this blend of international experience and educational expertise. Whether just starting out, preparing for conservatoire study, or returning to the instrument later in life, they can expect high-quality guidance, inspiring opportunities, and a welcoming space to connect and grow as musicians.