Although Ties Mellema is undisputedly a virtuoso on the saxophone, he sees himself first and foremost as a musician. His craft is expressed in his continuous exploration of the outer limits of music.

Ties was a founding member of the Amstel Quartet, performing with the group for 20 years. He subsequently began composing his own music, increasingly incorporating electronics alongside the saxophone. In 2019 he launched the crossover project PEAX, which ran until 2025. He now performs as a solo artist, collaborating with like-minded musicians who share his vision of blending styles, and is a member of Splendor Amsterdam, the Amsterdam musicians’ collective.

Ties has received numerous awards, including the prestigious Netherlands Music Prize. Various albums featuring Ties, both as solo artist and ensemble player, were released on his own labels, Amstel Records and PEAX Records.

Ties Mellema play Légère reeds and JLV Ligatures.