GPSW 2026 Dates

Great Plains Saxophone Workshop: June 21 - 27
Solo Competition — Young Artist Semifinals: June 20
Solo Competition — High School and Young Artist Finals: June 22

university of oklahoma, norman ok

The Great Plains Saxophone Workshop brings together saxophonists from across the country for several days of intensive music-making, collaboration, and community. Participants engage in large saxophone ensemble and chamber ensembles, receive chamber coachings, take part in group classes and private lessons, and gain valuable insights from leading university faculty and professionals while networking with peers who share their passion. The workshop fosters a supportive, high-level musical environment where participants can both perform and learn, while also exploring current topics in saxophone performance and pedagogy. In 2026, GPSW will continue the Great Plains Saxophone Workshop Solo Competition: High School and Young Artist. The competition is an additional opportunity, and competitors must also attend the workshop.

GPSW and GPSW Solo Competition 2026 registration will be open from September 1, 2025 through May 31, 2026. In an effort to make our application process more equitable, participants will be granted admission on a first-come, first-served basis. Waiting lists will be maintained in the same manner.

Click Here to Register for GPSW 2026

GPSW MISSION

The Great Plains Saxophone Workshop (GPSW) is dedicated to fostering artistic growth, musical excellence, and community through the study and performance of the saxophone. Students, educators, and professionals deepen their musicianship, expand their musical perspectives, and engage meaningfully with leading artists in the field. With a distinctive emphasis on chamber music—through ensemble rehearsals, coachings, and performances—participants develop the skills of collaboration, communication, and artistry essential to their growth as musicians. GPSW inspires sustained love for music and cultivates connections that extend beyond the classroom and stage.

GPSW Highlights

Group Classes: Experience a studio-style group class where participants can perform, discuss, and receive critical feedback from GPSW faculty.
Chamber Music: We offer a unique focus on chamber music through various chamber formations, coachings and performances.
Topic Discussions: GPSW Faculty will conduct a series of discussions on performance, pedagogical, and career topics.
Outreach Engagement: Participants will get a chance to perform and engage with the local community in the OKC metropolitan area.

Other GPSW Opportunities

One-on-one time with faculty
Monster Saxophone Ensemble
Recitals
Technique classes
Private lessons
Networking with faculty and peers

GPSW Solo Competition

High School Competition - One Live Round (June 22)

15 minutes of any repertoire (must include one piece with piano)
Rehearsal with GPSW Collaborative Pianist: June 21

Young Artist Competition - Two Live Rounds (June 20 & 22)

Semi-Final Round (June 20)
Must include one unaccompanied piece for semi-final round
12 minutes of music max.
Final Round (June 22)
18 minutes of music max.
Rehearsal with GPSW Collaborative Pianist: Semi-Final (June 19) and Final (June 21)

GPSW Solo Competition Prizes will be announced soon.

GPSW Testimonials

What was your favorite part of GPSW:

~ Spending time with a new quartet full of great musicians!
~ The opportunity to meet so many professor all in one place, as well as having the chance to take a one-on-one lesson!
~ Being able to make connections all over the country.
~ Thank you for the good communication regarding camp in the days before and during. I felt super supported!
~ It was everything we were hoping for: real challenge, community, and inspiration.

How do you think you grew as a musician during GPSW:

~ I learned how to work efficiently in a group when putting a quartet together in a short amount of time.
~ My list of known repertoire increased by a lot. I also have learned many different approaches to practicing and teaching through my private lesson, ensemble, and performance classes.
~ My chamber playing really grew and I feel like I was really able to take and learn what other people do for their quartets at their schools and take what I liked and bring it back to my own.
~This was a life changing experience and I am so thankful I got to attend! I will cherish these friendships and connections that I have made forever!

“The Great Plains Saxophone Workshop is life changing. The people you meet at GPSW are truly lifelong friends and colleagues. The faculty are some of the best instructors and mentors I’ve ever had the chance to work with. GPSW is a no-brainer. I’m already planning for next year!”

GPSW YouTube