Luke Kranyak is a dynamic saxophonist and dedicated performer based in central Pennsylvania. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree in Saxophone Performance at The Pennsylvania State University, where he studies under Dr. David Stambler. With minors in Entrepreneurship & Innovation and Arts Entrepreneurship, Luke blends his artistic talents with a forward-thinking business mindset to expand his audio/visual recording service and music lesson studio.

Known for his versatility and technical prowess, Luke has performed with Penn State’s premiere ensembles, including the Penn State Symphonic Wind Ensemble and the Centre Dimensions Jazz Ensemble. Under the baton of Dr. Tonya Mitchell-Spradlin, he recently completed the first wind ensemble recording of Roberto Molinelli's Four Pictures from New York, serving as the solo saxophonist with the Penn State Symphonic Wind Ensemble. His orchestral experience includes performing Sergei Rachmaninoff's Symphonic Dances with the Penn State Philharmonic Orchestra. In addition, Luke has experience working as a contracted performer through RWS Global at Hersheypark, performing with a strolling brass band during the summer 2023 and summer 2024 seasons.

Luke has performed throughout the United States at venues including Bailey Hall at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts in Pittsburgh, PA, the White House in Washington D.C., and has worked with musicians to the likes of Dayna Stephens and Valentin Kovalev. An advocate for new music, Luke actively collaborates with contemporary composers, frequently premiering original works. He has debuted pieces by Dr. Baljinder Singh Sekhon, Dr. William Stowman, Katahj Copley, and Han Hitchen, bringing fresh compositions to life. His commitment to expanding the wind ensemble and saxophone repertoire has made him a champion of innovative and boundary-pushing music.

Beyond performance, Luke is an accomplished freelance audio and video recording engineer, capturing high-quality performances for collegiate student recitals and distinguished artists/ensembles. He also serves as Band Leader for the Sweet Notes at Hersheypark, where he performs and oversees daily shows.

In addition to his performance career, Luke demonstrates a strong commitment to arts advocacy and leadership. He serves as Treasurer and Web Manager for the Penn State Saxophone Alliance, securing over $67,800 in funding from university-affiliated resources and over $29,490 from private endowment funds/nonprofits for masterclasses, festivals, and guest artist residencies. He also contributes to event programming as part of the NASA Region 8 Conference Committee.

Last revised: 03/22/25