Kenneth Edge

Dr. Kenneth Edge is a saxophone lecturer at the Royal Irish Academy of Music (RIAM), specializing in contemporary and Irish music performance. He holds a DMus from RIAM (2021) and has performed internationally with major works by composers like John Buckley and Elmer Bernstein. His career includes roles as the original saxophonist for Riverdance and solo clarinettist for The Pirate Queen on Broadway. Edge has premiered numerous compositions, including his own works such as the score for Coisceim Dance Theatre’s Touch Me and the 3 Études for Saxophone Quartet. His research focuses on reinterpreting Irish contemporary compositions for saxophone.

• Education: DMus (Royal Irish Academy of Music, 2021)

Research interests include expanding saxophone repertoire through collaborations with composers and exploring historical performance practices. His compositions blend modern techniques with traditional elements, reflected in his chamber works and film scores. Edge’s discography includes soundtracks for Elmer Bernstein’s films A Rage in Harlem and The Grifters. He actively promotes Irish musical heritage through teaching and performance.

His awards include winning the RTE Young Musician of the Future competition in 1983. Edge’s pedagogical approach emphasizes technical mastery alongside creative expression, shaping future generations of saxophonists.