Dates	Location
March 28, 2024 (7:30–9 p.m.)	Music Building, Recital Hall 175 and Virtual

Saxophonist Nick May will present a concert of original works by living LQBTQ+ composers that he commissioned through his I Exist Project.

About the project

The I Exist Project amplifies the richness and diversity of queer life, culture, and artistry by partnering with a broad spectrum of talented queer composers and performers. Our mission is to inspire the creation and promotion of innovative queer repertoire that celebrates the unique experiences and voices within our community, fostering greater understanding, connection, and visibility for all.

Current collaborators comprise of emerging and leading creators of our time, with diverse queer identities and backgrounds include: Spencer Arias, Stuart Beatch, Evan Boegehold, Nathan Brown, Rosśa Crean, Kevin Day, Peter Dayton, David Del Tredici, Clarie Eckstein, Darius Edwards, Nathan Froebe, Kenneth Fuchs, Scott Hansen, Jennifer Higdon, Kevin Kay, Jason Lo, Xenia St. Charles Iris Llyllyth, Zachery Meier, Jackie Myers, Nebal, Javier Oviedo, Kincaid Rabb, Aaryn S. Ricucci-Hill, Phillip Sink, and Ingrid Stölzel.

These pieces will be written for an eclectic mix of ensembles including but not limited to: solo saxophone, saxophone and clarinet, saxophone and piano, saxophone and prepared piano, saxophone and harp, saxophone and electronics, and saxophone and voice; all of which precedence will be made to collaborate with queer performers.

In the face of recent heart-wrenching acts of targeted violence, ongoing attempts by legislatures to undermine queer rights, and the continued dehumanization endured by transgender folx, the pursuit of this project becomes even more essential. It stands as a resolute testament to the strength and unity of our community, boldly asserting that our existence will not be diminished or silenced. Through the creation and promotion of queer music and art, we unleash the powerful resonance of our voices, aiming to ignite profound and lasting change within society. By showcasing the vibrant tapestry of queer artistic expressions, we transcend barriers and defy attempts to marginalize us. We firmly believe in the extraordinary capacity of art, in all its boundless forms, to challenge societal norms, evoke empathy, and stimulate meaningful conversations that bring about transformative shifts. By advocating for the recognition and appreciation of queer culture, we strive to foster a world where acceptance, equality, and understanding prevail.

About Nick May

Heralded as “highly virtuosic” whose “artistry further imbues his performance with an unmatched sense of lyricism and expression. (Christina Ensign, Composer), saxophonist Nick May is sought after as a highly expressive, intuitive performer that “brings his personality to every performance – full of genuine joie de vivre!” (Javier Oviedo, Classical Saxophone Project) and quickly garnering attention for his compelling programs that have been described as “Incredible; bringing to life some of the best music that has ever been written.” (Maestro Hughes, Arapahoe Philharmonic).

Since his solo debut at the age of eighteen with the Lincoln Symphony Orchestra, May’s career has taken him throughout the United States, Singapore, Germany, Sweden, and Denmark, appearing recurrently as a guest artist and recitalist. Additionally May has garnered prizes at many prestigious national and international competitions with recent Carnegie Hall performances with pianist and M2 Duo partner, Maya Tuylieva, described as “two incredible musicians, who perform as one voice.” (Dave Kenney, Composer)

He has performed as a soloist and been featured with the Mid America Freedom Band, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Saxophone Choir, Classical Saxophone Project, Baker University Jazz Combo and Big Band, Arapahoe Philharmonic Orchestra, Kansas Wesleyan University Wind Ensemble, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Orchestra, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Wind Ensemble, and the Lincoln Symphony Orchestra. 

May has premiered works and collaborated with today’s most eminent and emerging composers including Kevin Day, Jennifer Higdon, Peter Dayton, Ingrid Stölzel, Dave Kenney, Spencer Arias, Nathan Froebe, Evan Boegehold, John Kosch, Christina Ensign, David von Kampen, Suhan Tuyliyev, among others. He released his debut album in 2019 under Albany Records – Tone Studies: the Saxophone Music of David Maslanka; is also featured on The Chamber Music of David von Kampen and the University of Nebraska – Lincoln Jazz Orchestra’s album, The Good Life. Additionally, he is the founder of the I Exist Project, which aims to inspire the creation and promotion of innovative queer repertoire that celebrates the unique experiences and voices within our community, fostering greater understanding, connection, and visibility for all.