Katie Steffen is a Colorado based performer, engineer, composer, and educator who is passionate about exploring music in a new way. She creates an environment where people can get excited about music they like and explore new music at the same time. 

In 2024, Katie graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a BM in jazz studies, a certificate in music technology, and summa cum laude honors. She will also graduate in May 2026 with a MM in jazz studies from the same school. She’s also been able to study recording, mixing, and producing techniques with Socrates Garcia, who she’s worked under at the music tech lab at UNC. Through the music technology certificate, she’s obtained a Pro Tools Specialist certification from Avid and is working toward the next level of Pro Tools certification. During her time at UNC, Katie has worked with many different kinds of ensembles, including combos, big bands, wind bands, and small ensembles. As an educator, Katie has been actively involved in high school programs around northern Colorado running clinics, sectionals, and teaching private lessons. She has been actively involved with the UNC Greeley Jazz Festival every year and enjoys working with clinicians and students there. Katie’s research interests include underrated female instrumentalists in jazz.