Katie McDermitt Blandford

Executive Director, Philharmonic of Indianapolis

Fishers, IN 46037

Her Story

About Katie

Katie McDermitt Blandford is a passionate advocate for performing arts education and a multifaceted professional with over 26 years of experience as a flutist, educator, and arts leader. She currently serves as Executive Director of the Philharmonic Orchestra of Indianapolis, an all-volunteer ensemble where she oversees concert programming, season planning, youth orchestra summer camp coordination, fundraising initiatives, grant writing, and community engagement. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to sustaining accessible, community-centered music organizations while fostering artistic excellence and collaboration.

As a flutist and educator, Katie maintains a private studio of 40 to 50 students throughout the Indianapolis area, working with musicians of all ages to develop strong technical foundations, creativity, and expressive artistry. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes helping students discover their authentic musical voice. She also expands their learning experiences beyond traditional band programs through group classes on extended techniques, ensemble experiences such as flute choirs, and immersive performance opportunities. “Music is a powerful form of communication,” she notes. “I strive to help my students not only master their instrument but also express themselves authentically through their playing.”

Throughout her career, Katie has also been deeply engaged in directing and community arts leadership, where she has led performances and musical initiatives that prioritize collaboration, inclusion, and artistic growth. She is committed to building supportive environments where students, educators, and performers feel valued and empowered to take creative risks. Her work extends into community outreach through workshops, masterclasses, and educational programming designed to make music accessible to a broader audience. Guided by a belief in music as a tool for connection and social impact—strongly influenced by the El Sistema philosophy—Katie continues to champion the role of the arts in enhancing cognitive development, wellbeing, and quality of life across all ages.

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Katie

01What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to my passion for music, a deep commitment to community building, an entrepreneurial spirit, and consistent behind-the-scenes effort. Much of my work has involved organizing programs, teaching, and supporting fundraising initiatives, all of which have required persistence, attention to detail, and a willingness to invest in long-term outcomes. These experiences have shaped my approach and allowed me to create meaningful impact through both leadership and service.

02What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

In my field right now, I see significant opportunities alongside important challenges. There is strong potential to strengthen community connections through volunteer ensembles, expand access to music through models like El Sistema, and build on the growing recognition of music’s cognitive and therapeutic benefits. At the same time, there are persistent challenges, including limited visibility and recognition for women in the field, as well as the broader undervaluing of much of the behind-the-scenes work that makes these programs possible. Additionally, many community-based ensembles continue to rely heavily on volunteer models rather than offering sustainable, compensated positions, which can limit long-term growth and equity in the field.

03What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

The values that guide me in both my professional and personal life center on community building, accessibility, and impact. I am deeply committed to ensuring that music is available to everyone, regardless of background or circumstance, and I believe strongly in its power as a tool for social change and personal wellbeing. I also value the importance of the often unseen, behind-the-scenes work that makes programs successful, and I take pride in contributing to efforts that strengthen communities in meaningful and lasting ways.

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