Photo by Ryan Scherb
Singularity is a contemporary saxophone quartet dedicated to building relationships through live performance.
Praised in their May 2015 Carnegie Hall debut as “at once sensitive, nuanced, brash, and daring; all depending on the demands of the music” (David Ludwig, Curtis Institute) and for bringing “a wonderful life and spirit to my work,” (Charles Wuorinen, Pulitzer Prize-winning composer), Singularity’s performances combine precision, thoughtful interpretations, and an honest presentation of the close friendship they share.
Since forming in 2013, Singularity has developed an unending curiosity for the creation, purpose, and performance of original and arranged compositions for saxophone quartet. Their warm and artistically vulnerable presence encourages audiences to join in their exploration, establishing an inclusive environment ideal for deep listening and uninhibited imagination.
Recent Singularity appearances include performances on the Princeton Symphony Orchestra Chamber Series, at the Ethos New Music Society at SUNY Fredonia, and as guest artists and clinicians at Mercyhurst College, Mynderse Academy in upstate NY, and Foundation Academy in Trenton, NJ.
Thomas, Cole, Scotty, and Bryan have performed to critical and audience acclaim across North America and Europe, and are pursuing orchestral, chamber, and solo projects in addition to educational and administrative work. Notable performances include those with the New World Symphony, Tallahassee Symphony, Princeton Symphony, Flagstaff Symphony, Pensacola Symphony, Taneycomo Festival, and National Music Festival orchestras. They have also found success in prestigious solo competitions both in the US and abroad.
Thomas Giles is a chamber musician, soloist, and educator based in New York City. He has performed across the United States and Europe as a member of the Singularity saxophone quartet, the Mana Quartet, New World Symphony, Contemporaneous, and others. Giles increasingly enjoys creating interdisciplinary work with dance and theatre.
Cole Belt is an NYC-based performing/teaching artist. He has performed in masterclass settings, music festival residencies, chamber series, and guest artist recitals across the U.S. and Europe. Cole’s passion for collaborative art has resulted in the formation of several distinguished chamber ensembles, including: The Impression Saxophone Ensemble, Duo Velocipede, and Singularity.
Scotty Phillips is an Orlando-based classical saxophonist and woodwind artist. He is the tenor saxophonist for Singularity and has performed across the United States and Europe, and also has a produced a number of successful arrangements.
Bryan McNamara began studying the saxophone in upstate New York at age 10. 16 years later, he loves playing baritone in Singularity, and also works as an arts administrator. His passion for sharing music with others propels him to pursue experiences on and off stage.
