Steven Schick (born May 8, 1954) is an American percussionist, conductor, author, and educator noted for his specialization in contemporary classical music. He has been a prominent advocate for new percussion repertoire, having commissioned and premiered more than one hundred fifty works by living composers.
Early life and education
Schick was born in Iowa and raised on a farm. He began his musical studies there before pursuing higher education in music, obtaining degrees in percussion performance.
Career
Performance
Schick’s career as a soloist and ensemble player has spanned over four decades. He is recognized internationally for his virtuosity on a wide range of percussion instruments and for his interpretations of avant‑garde and contemporary works. He has performed with major orchestras and new‑music ensembles worldwide and has recorded extensively for labels such as Bridge Records and New World Records.
Conducting
In addition to performing, Schick has served as a conductor. He was the music director of the La Jolla Symphony Orchestra and Chorus from 2007 until 2022, leading the ensemble in both standard and contemporary repertoire. He also holds the position of artistic director of the San Francisco Contemporary Music Players.
Academic work
Schick is a Distinguished Professor of Music at the University of California, San Diego, where he holds the Reed Family Presidential Chair. He teaches percussion performance, contemporary music, and conducts graduate seminars. His students include many who have become active performers and educators in the field of new music.
Authorship
Schick has authored several publications on percussion performance practice and contemporary music, contributing scholarly articles and program notes that document and analyze the expanding percussion repertoire.
Awards and honors
Schick’s contributions to music have been recognized with numerous awards, including induction into the Percussive Arts Society Hall of Fame (2014) and various grants supporting the commissioning of new works.
Personal life
Schick continues to reside in California, balancing his roles as performer, conductor, and professor while maintaining an active schedule of concerts, recordings, and academic activities.