Erik Kar Jun Leung, a native of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, serves as Assistant Professor and Director of Bands at Oregon State University. In this role, he conducts the Wind Ensemble and Chamber Winds, teaches conducting, and oversees all aspects of OSU’s band program. Ensembles under his direction have been invited to perform at prestigious events, including the Western International Band Clinic, the Percy Grainger Wind Festival, the NW NAfME Conference, the WNW CBDNA Conference, the Oregon Music Educators Conference, and the inaugural Small Band Program Showcase at the College Band Directors National Association. The Oregon State University Wind Ensemble was also a finalist for the American Prize in Music’s Wind Band Division.

Leung earned his DMA in Wind Conducting from Northwestern University, along with degrees from the University of Toronto (M.Mus) and the University of Calgary (B.Mus with distinction, B.Ed). His mentors include Mallory Thompson, Gillian Mackay, Glenn Price, Mark Hopkins, and Jeremy Brown.

A passionate advocate for social justice, diversity, equity, and belonging, Leung weaves these principles into his work as a teacher, conductor, and researcher. His commitment to these values culminated in his first book, The Horizon Leans Forward . . . Stories of Courage, Strength, and Triumph of Underrepresented Communities in the Wind Band Field, published by GIA Publications.

He has presented at numerous conferences across North America and Europe, including the Midwest Band and Orchestra Clinic, the national College Band Directors National Association Convention, the American School Band Directors National Association conference, and the World Association of Symphonic Bands and Ensembles.