Biography
Katie Franke is a professional trombonist and music educator based in the Washington, D.C. area. Committed to excellence and leadership in her field, she seeks to inspire and empower the next generation of female brass musicians.
Katie has performed across the United States with renowned ensembles including the Boston Symphony Orchestra, National Symphony Orchestra, Baltimore Symphony Orchestra, Houston Symphony Orchestra, New Mexico Philharmonic, and the River Oaks Chamber Orchestra. As an active soloist, Katie appeared as a guest artist with the Indiana University Trombone Choir at the American Trombone Workshop in March 2025, and with the DC Trombone Workshop Trombone Choir in July 2025.
In October 2023, Katie made history by joining “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band as their first female trombonist. As a member of “The President’s Own,” she regularly performs at ceremonies and concerts throughout the D.C. area, at the White House, and throughout the United States.
Katie is also a committed music educator. In 2024, she was appointed Adjunct Professor of Trombone at the George Mason University Dewberry School of Music. She has presented masterclasses at institutions such as Indiana University, The Ohio State University, The University of Maryland, and at the 2025 DC Trombone Workshop. Additionally, she has served on the education panel at the American Trombone Workshop and has judged for competitions hosted by the American Trombone Workshop, the International Trombone Festival, and the International Women’s Brass Conference.
Originally from Falls Church, VA, Katie earned a Bachelor of Music from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music in 2020, studying with Peter Ellefson, and a Master of Music from the New England Conservatory in 2022, studying with Steve Lange. Her other primary teachers include Craig Mulcahy and William McElheney.
Beyond her musical pursuits, Katie enjoys hiking, cooking, gardening, and spending time with her partner, Steven, and their two cats, Daphne and Chloe.