Natalia Warthen is a blossoming young artist whose passion lies in creating music with others. A recent graduate of Northwestern University, she served as the saxophone studio’s graduate assistant during her time as a Wildcat.
In and out of her position as alto saxophonist with the ~Nois Quartet, she remains a fierce advocate for collaborative music making. She has received several accolades with her past chamber music ensembles – including first place at the North American Saxophone Alliance Quartet Competition, Quarterfinalist at the Fischoff National Chamber Music, winner of the Barbara Wagner Chamber Music Competition, and National Finalist in the Music Teachers National Association Chamber Music Competition. As a new but dedicated member of ~Nois, she has commissioned and premiered the writing of a myriad of composers, including upcoming works by Evan Williams and Jeff Scott. She can soon be heard on ~Nois’ next album release on Cedille records, performing pieces by Ge, Thomalla, Muhly, and Okpebholo. With her other chamber ensembles, Warthen has premiered and commissioned over 30 new works for the saxophone repertoire.
In her solo playing, she has been selected as a National Finalist in the North American Saxophone Alliance Solo Competition, and a winner of the Hans Schaeuble Award in Arosa, Switzerland. She made her solo debut in 2024, performing Paul Creston’s Concerto for Alto Saxophone and Orchestra with the Northwestern University Symphony Orchestra under Donald Schleicher.
Originally a native of Newnan, Georgia, Warthen pursued her bachelors degree from Michigan State University with Joe Lulloff, and her masters from Northwestern University with Taimur Sullivan. She currently resides in Evanston, IL and can be seen making music in Chicagoland or touring with ~Nois.
Photo credit: Nick Zoulek
