Katie Birt

Katie Birt is a pianist, music director, and educator whose artistic practice blends classical training with an interest in contemporary issues, including environmental themes. She is currently a Doctor of Musical Arts candidate in Performance and Literature at Western University, specializing in Collaborative Piano. She holds a Master’s in Performance and Literature from Western, as well as Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Education degrees from Queen’s University.

As a collaborative pianist, Katie has performed in Germany, Italy, Quebec, and Southwestern Ontario. She has worked widely as a pianist and music director, most recently serving as Music Director at Knox St. Andrew’s (Dutton, ON), and in theatre through Original Kids Theatre Company (London, ON), Musical Theatre Productions (London), Musiktheatre Bavaria (Germany), and St. Lawrence College’s Musical Theatre Program (Brockville). She is currently working with The Isabel Voices and music directing for Crossroads United.

As a researcher, Katie’s doctoral work explores the intersection of classical performance and climate activism, with a focus on how musicians can contribute to social change through performance practice. She is a Canada Council for the Arts recipient and Ontario Graduate Scholar. She is passionate about inclusive programming, interdisciplinary collaboration, and music that reflects the concerns of today’s rapidly changing world.