ABOUT
Will Franke is a dynamic violinist, fiddle player, and live looper with a passion for pushing the boundaries of sound. Drawing from a rich tapestry of genres, including classical, jazz, folk, rock, electronic, and world fusion, Will weaves intricate melodies and rhythms that captivate audiences and challenge the conventional.
With over two decades of experience as a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter, Will’s performances are a blend of technical skill and creative spontaneity. His use of live looping transforms each performance into a unique sonic journey, where violin harmonies, electronic textures, and percussive elements merge seamlessly.
Will has performed on stages across diverse venues, from intimate street performances, to immersive multi-sensory shows across America. His collaborations span from classical to contemporary projects, always seeking to explore new musical landscapes.
Music for Will is not just about the notes, but the emotion and connection it brings to life. Whether performing solo, in collaboration with other artists, or creating in the studio, Will’s music strives to find depth in the human experience.
Finding ROots
Will Franke’s music began with violin training at an early age and evolved to encompass a diverse array of genres including rock, blues, jazz, and fiddle music. At 18, he ventured into the profound world of Indian music and began studying sitar in the Maihar Gharana. In 2022, while on an artists’ grant, Will traveled to Calcutta, India to immerse himself in the musical traditions of the region to learn from masters.
Upon returning to the West, Will focused on refining his violin and fiddle techniques, driven by a vision to synthesize these varied musical experiences. His approach seeks to blend the depth of Eastern and Western musical traditions, respecting their historical roots while embracing innovative, authentic experimentation.
By blending the rich, expressive tones of the violin with electronic effects, Will creates a sound that is both ethereal and grounded. His use of looping technology allows for layering complex harmonies and rhythms, producing a full, orchestral effect from a single instrument. This sound is not just a technical achievement but an emotional journey, inviting listeners into a world where classical and contemporary sounds meet and transform.
Will has also created a groundbreaking new musical invention—the “Magic Harmonator”. This instrument is designed to revolutionize the way musicians interact with harmony and sound. It allows for real-time harmonic transformation, enabling musicians to explore and create complex harmonic structures on the fly using only their feet.