Est. 2026 · London, England
Advancing the art of the saxophone across the United Kingdom and beyond
About the Association
The British Academic Saxophone Association (BASA) is a charitable organisation dedicated to the advancement of academic saxophone performance and music education across the United Kingdom and internationally.
We bring together saxophonists, composers, educators and music professionals to celebrate, develop and promote the highest standards of artistry and musical scholarship.
Through competitions, masterclasses, concerts and educational programmes, BASA creates opportunities for musicians at every stage of their journey.
Learn More"Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and life to everything."
— PlatoWhat We Do
Competitions
Organising world-class international saxophone competitions in London, providing a prestigious platform for outstanding musicians to gain recognition.
Education
Delivering masterclasses, summer schools, workshops and educational programmes with leading professional musicians and educators.
New Repertoire
Collaborating with composers to commission and disseminate new musical works for the saxophone, enriching the broader musical heritage.
Concerts
Creating high-quality concert programmes featuring leading saxophonists from the United Kingdom and around the world.
International Exchange
Fostering international cultural exchange and partnerships with conservatoires, cultural institutions and music organisations worldwide.
Emerging Talent
Supporting young and emerging musicians through scholarships, performance opportunities and professional development programmes.
Upcoming Event
London's premier international saxophone competition returns for its third edition, welcoming outstanding saxophonists from around the world to compete at the highest level.
Competition DetailsOur Story
The British Academic Saxophone Association was founded in London in 2026 with a singular purpose: to create a permanent, prestigious home for the academic saxophone community in the United Kingdom.
Born from the success of the Cherry Saxophone Competition — now entering its third international edition — BASA represents the natural evolution of a vision to not only celebrate excellence in saxophone performance, but to nurture, educate and inspire the next generation of musicians.
As a registered charity, BASA is committed to making the highest standards of musical education and performance accessible to musicians at every stage of their development, from young students discovering their passion to established professionals seeking to deepen their artistry.
We work in close collaboration with composers, conservatoires, cultural institutions and funding bodies to ensure that the saxophone continues to flourish as one of the most expressive and versatile instruments in the classical and contemporary canon.
Leadership
Denis Kozminykh
Chair & Executive Director
Irina Nazarova
Treasurer
Marina Sidelnikova
Secretary
Registered Charity
The British Academic Saxophone Association is a Charitable Incorporated Organisation registered in England and Wales. We are governed by our constitution and operate in full accordance with the Charities Act 2011.
III International
An international platform for the world's finest saxophonists, held in the heart of London.
About the Competition
The Cherry Saxophone Competition has established itself as one of the most prestigious international platforms for saxophone performance. Now in its third edition, the competition brings together exceptional musicians from across the globe to perform before a distinguished international jury in London.
Competition Categories
Junior Category
Up to 18 years
Open to young saxophonists demonstrating exceptional promise and technical accomplishment.
Young Artist
18 – 26 years
For emerging professional musicians at the threshold of an international career.
Senior Category
27 years and above
Open to established professional saxophonists of the highest calibre.
Chamber Music
Ensembles
For saxophone ensembles and chamber groups featuring the saxophone as a primary instrument.
Registration
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