Kate Janzen

Kate Janzen is a multi-award-winning composer, music director, pianist, and teacher whose creative pursuits encompass numerous musical styles, centering predominantly around choral literature, vocal jazz ensembles, and musical theater productions.

Her original works and arrangements have garnered nationwide acclaim, earning accolades including two DownBeat Awards for Outstanding Vocal Jazz Arrangement, three honors from the Festival of New American Music Composition Competition, and Editor’s Choice recognition from JW Pepper.

Kate holds a Bachelor of Music degree from California State University’s Sacramento School of Music, graduating with dual emphases in Jazz Studies/Arranging and Theory & Composition. Her formative composition mentors include the renowned Leo Eylar and vocal jazz giant Kerry Marsh.

At the heart of Kate’s work is a belief that music has the power to illuminate the human experience—and that singers are most compelling when they are given the freedom to bring their whole selves into the rehearsal room and onto the stage. She believes singing is one of the most direct paths to the soul, and that true vocal freedom begins with personal freedom. Whether directing a choir, mentoring a student, accompanying a performer, or crafting a new score, Kate strives to create spaces where people feel empowered to fully express themselves through their voices.

Her career has taken her across a wide range of musical settings, from composing for independent films and writing commissioned works for orchestras and choirs to accompanying workshops led by Broadway performers, emceeing large-scale music festivals, and leading master classes in musical theater preparation.

Based in Colorado, Kate serves as Music Director for the Superior Community Choir and The Spark Performing Arts Center in Boulder. She performs with The Key of She, accepts commissions for vocal and instrumental ensembles across a broad range of genres, and is currently developing her first full-length musical.