Elliot Riley is a German saxophonist of American descent whose work brings together solo performance, chamber music, orchestral collaborations, and a deep commitment to education. Entering a new artistic chapter, he is increasingly focused on expanding the expressive possibilities of the saxophone through new repertoire, artistic collaborations, and commissioned works.

Riley was the alto saxophonist of the Raschèr Saxophone Quartet for 23 seasons. Through his work with this world-renowned ensemble, he performed in many of the world’s leading concert halls, appearing alongside internationally renowned orchestras and choirs. He has collaborated with ensembles including the Berliner Philharmoniker, SWR Symphonieorchester Baden-Baden and Freiburg,

Gürzenich Orchestra Cologne, American Composers Orchestra, Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra, Swedish Chamber Orchestra, and Les Siècles. Alongside his solo work, Riley remains an active chamber musician, regularly collaborating with fellow artists, including performances with his violinist wife, Agata Riley.

Alongside his chamber music career, Riley has developed an active solo career. Notable highlights include a solo tour with the Neue Lausitzer Philharmonie performing Lars-Erik Larsson’s Saxophone Concerto, as well as recent performances of Alexander Glazunov’s Concerto in E-flat major in historic castle settings.

A dedicated pedagogue, Riley has been closely involved in educational initiatives including the Raschèr Saxophon Akademie and the Raschèr Baltic Academy. Since 2012, he has taught saxophone at the Jugendmusikschule St. Georgen-Furtwangen and the Musikschule Hochschwarzwald in Germany’s Black Forest. He also embraces innovative approaches to saxophone education through his Patreon platform, connecting with students around the world.

His teaching is guided by a simple philosophy:

“Every single student is an artist in their own right, and I treat them this way in their lessons.”

Today, Riley continues to collaborate with composers to create new works while developing recital programs that showcase the saxophone’s remarkable versatility. Whether performing, teaching, or collaborating with fellow musicians, he is driven by a desire to inspire curiosity, foster connection, and continue discovering what the saxophone can become.