Debra Richtmeyer

Debra Richtmeyer has performed as concerto soloist with numerous bands and orchestras, including the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, The Slovak Radio Orchestra, The Scottish Chamber Orchestra and the Washington D.C. United States Navy Band, and as principal saxophonist with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra (1981-1991) and the St. Louis Symphony (1992-2002).

She has commissioned and premiered numerous compositions and was the first woman to perform a featured concerto with orchestra and to give a master class at a World Saxophone Congress.

Twice a Grammy List Nominee, Richtmeyer’s solo compact discs have received reviews such as "flawless...an extraordinary album" by the American Record Guide and “first-class solo playing” by the Dallas Morning News.

She has adjudicated state, national and international competitions, including the Fischoff National Chamber Music Competition and the SaxGO and Jean-Marie Londeix International Saxophone Competitions.

Professor of Saxophone at the University of Illinois since 1991, she is the recipient of the North American Saxophone Alliance’s Honorary Life Member Award and the University of Illinois’ prestigious Campus Award for Excellence in Graduate and Professional Teaching. Her students have won numerous national and international prizes and are teaching and performing in the United States, Europe and Asia. Previously on the faculty at the University of North Texas and Lawrence Conservatory, she received her degrees from Northwestern University and was a student and Teaching Assistant for Dr. Frederick Hemke.

Debra Richtmeyer is a Past President of the North American Saxophone Alliance and Elected Member of the International Saxophone Committee.