Clarinetist, composer, and educator Dr. Luke Ellard strives for art that continually reaches out, engages thoughtfully with communities, and values authenticity unapologetically. 

With a passion for finding intersections between the past and future, Ellard has drawn from their experience as a contemporary and interdisciplinary collaborator with groups such as Bang on a Can All Stars and Eighth Blackbird, their research as a historical performance specialist, and their experience as a chamber and orchestral musician with such regional ensembles as Mallarmé Music and the Winston-Salem Symphony. Their music has been internationally performed by ensembles such as HOCKET, the Lawrence Conservatory Wind Ensemble, the New Trombone Collective, the North Texas Wind Symphony, and the Toronto Youth Wind Orchestra, and consortiums like the New Works Project. Current projects include their book NEXTended Studies, solo electronic band LE, and commissioning projects as a performer and composer. 

Ellard joined the faculty of the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in Fall 2023 as Visiting Assistant Professor of Clarinet, having previously served on the faculties of the University of Oklahoma and Midwestern State University. Luke is thrilled to continue cultivating community and artistic endeavors as a permanent member of UNC Greensboro’s School of Music beginning in Fall 2024. 

Ellard holds a Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) from the University of North Texas, a Master of Music (MM) and Performer Diploma from Indiana University, an MM from the University of Texas at Austin, and a Bachelor of Music (BM) from Louisiana Tech University.