Stephen Duke is a renowned classical music artist who has made a significant impact in the world of music. He was born on August 22, 1961, in the city of Houston, Texas, in the United States of America. From a young age, Duke showed a keen interest in music, and his parents encouraged him to pursue his passion. Duke began his musical journey by learning to play the piano at the age of six. He quickly showed a natural talent for the instrument and began to take lessons from a local teacher. As he grew older, Duke became interested in other instruments, including the clarinet and saxophone. He joined his school's band and began to perform in local concerts and competitions. After completing high school, Duke enrolled at the University of Houston, where he studied music. He received his Bachelor of Music degree in 1983 and went on to pursue a Master of Music degree at the University of Michigan. During his time at the University of Michigan, Duke studied under the renowned clarinetist Fred Ormand and received valuable training and guidance. After completing his studies, Duke began his professional career as a musician. He joined the Houston Symphony Orchestra as a clarinetist and quickly established himself as a talented performer. He also began to perform as a soloist, and his performances were well-received by audiences and critics alike. In 1990, Duke joined the faculty of the University of Texas at Austin as a professor of clarinet. He has since become a highly respected teacher and mentor to many young musicians. Duke has also continued to perform as a soloist and has collaborated with many other musicians and ensembles. Throughout his career, Duke has received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the world of music. In 1991, he was awarded the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant, which recognizes outstanding young musicians. He has also been a recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts Solo Recitalist Grant and the Texas Commission on the Arts Grant. Duke has performed in many major venues around the world, including Carnegie Hall in New York City, the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and the Royal Albert Hall in London. He has also performed with many renowned orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, the Boston Symphony Orchestra, and the London Symphony Orchestra. One of Duke's most notable performances was his solo performance of Mozart's Clarinet Concerto with the Houston Symphony Orchestra in 1992. The performance was highly praised by critics and cemented Duke's reputation as one of the world's leading clarinetists. In addition to his performances and teaching, Duke has also made significant contributions to the field of music through his research and writing. He has published numerous articles and papers on the clarinet and its history, and he has also edited and contributed to several books on the subject. Duke's dedication to his craft and his contributions to the world of music have earned him a place among the most respected and admired classical music artists of his generation. He continues to inspire and mentor young musicians and to perform at the highest level, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of music.

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