Derek Charke is a composer, a flutist and an assistant professor of music at Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada. His music is circling the globe thanks to recent commissions from the Kronos Quartet, the Katona Twins and the National Flute Association; performances by such luminary ensembles as the Group for Contemporary Music in New York City and upcoming commissions from the St. Lawrence String Quartet and the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra.

Derek's music bridges a divide between a play of pure sound, he collects natural and environmental sounds, and the continuation of the western tradition, albeit with contemporary influences. His interest in the north and the environmental space around him play pivotal roles in many of his compositions. In addition he is focused on furthering the sound words of instruments by using "extended" techniques and electronics (live processing and soundtracks) to extend the sonic possibilities.