Gerard McChrystal was born in Derry, N. Ireland. His UK debut was with The Philharmonia premiering Dave Heath’s ‘Out of the Cool’ in 1989 at St John Smith’s Square. Also in 1989 he performed as soloist in the premiere of Shaun Davey’s ‘Relief of Derry Symphony’ with The Ulster Orchestra. This performance was also recorded for his first CD. His Cd 'Aria' was named one of Classic FM's best classical CD's of 2011 and was David Mellor's 'Connoisseur's Choice'. Gerard has performed in over 35 countries including China, USA, New Zealand, Korea, South Africa and Azerbaijan. His main ambition is to develop collaborations and encourage composers, especially from Ireland, to write for the saxophone. Collaborations include composer Philip Glass, The Soweto String Quartet, Rambert Dance Co., London Musici, The Smith Quartet, Classical guitarist Craig Ogden, vocal groups Anuna and Codetta, Saxophone quartets Saxtet and The Bros Quartet. As part of Bros Saxophone Quartet he has recorded and performed music by Salvatore Sciarrino in Milan. ‘Pagine’ by Sciarrino was released on Stradivarius Records in 2016. Gerard’s was an ambassador for Derry-Londonderry UK City of Culture 2013. His new CD 'Solas' with organist Christian Wilson will be released in June 2020. The CD was recorded in The Royal Chapel, Tower of London and features music from Haydn, Handel, Vivaldi to Jehan Alain and Barbara Thompson.