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Presidential Research Professor
Northern Illinois University

Saxophonist Steve Duke has a broad range of performing experience throughout the United States and in Europe -- from Jazz at the Spoleto Festival to the Synthese Festival in Bourges, France.

Recently, Duke has collaborated with composers in the commissioning of numerous works of real-time computer/acoustic interactive music, including; Larry Austin at the Center for Experimental Music and Intermedia at the University of North Texas, Cort Lippe at the Hiller Computer Music Studios at University at Buffalo-SUNY, Zack Settel at McGill University in Canada, and James Phelps at the Northern Illinois University Computer Music Studio. In addition to computer/acoustic works Steve Duke has premiered numerous acoustic solo pieces for saxophone including works by Dexter Morrill, William O. Smith, Les Thimmig, Jan Bach and Robert Fleisher.

From 1982 to 1996 Duke performed and recorded duo improvisations in jazz and contemporary music with pianist/composer Joseph Pinzarrone. Duke's solo recordings include releases on Sony/Columbia, the CDCM Computer Music Series on Centaur, and GMEB/UNESCO/CIME (France).

In addition to his work in contemporary music, Steve Duke is widely recognized for his development of learning how to reduce tension in performance as well as for the articulation of cross-over style techniques. He received his Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees from the University of North Texas and is a Guild Certified Feldenkrais Teacher. Mr. Duke was awarded the Presidential Research Professorship at Northern Illinois University where he serves on the School of Music faculty.