Chicago-born composer Steven Franklin enjoys using his musical gifts in many different capacities. He works as an orchestral trumpet player, soloist, composer, and pianist. He has been commissioned by ensembles such as the American Brass Quintet and enjoys writing chamber music for his musician friends, including members of the New York Philharmonic, Pittsburgh Symphony, Philadelphia Orchestra and Boston Symphony. His recent commissions include a premiere for the Philadelphia Chamber Music Society by David Bilger and Thomas Rolfs, as well as his new Tuba Sonata for Craig Knox of the Pittsburgh Symphony. His Trumpet Sextet No. 2 was performed by the Curtis Trumpet Ensemble as they took first prize at the National Trumpet Competition in 2016. His compositions can also be heard on The Brass Project‘s album Cityscaping, horn player Eric Huckins’ album Drifter (Summit Records), with more recordings on the way.

The Philadelphia Inquirer remarks that his post-romantic style “looks back longingly… to the abiding tonal sensibilities of Richard Strauss”. The Oregon ArtsWatch also observes, “The yearning, conflicted melody Franklin envelops in almost-jazzy late Romantic harmony (is reminiscent) of the bittersweet, melancholy sentimentality (in) John Williams…” Some have also remarked that his “harmonic and melodic style has a distinct cinematic flavor” (The San Francisco Classical Voice). Despite his love for the music of Strauss and his cinematic style, Steven’s music continues to evolve as he explores new ways of achieving the expression and depth he seeks to create in music. 

Mr. Franklin is equally comfortable as a performer. He joined the Kansas City Symphony in 2019 as Associate Principal/2nd Trumpet, having previously been a member of the New World Symphony and Principal Trumpet of the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra. He has performed as guest principal trumpet with the Chicago Symphony under Riccardo Muti, guest principal trumpet with the Columbus Symphony, and a frequent substitute with the Rochester Philharmonic. In the summer, Mr. Franklin performs with the Lake Placid Sinfonietta in the Adirondack Mountains of New York State.  As a soloist, he has appeared with the New World Symphony, Ocean City Pops, Lynn Philharmonia and Masterworks Festival Orchestra. He has won first prize in numerous competitions including the Roger Voisin Memorial Trumpet Competition, the International Trumpet Guild Solo Competition and the National Trumpet Competition. 

Mr. Franklin currently resides in Kansas City with his lovely wife Naomi.