Francesca Knowles

Multi-instrumentalist based in the North East of England, who performs and records primarily on drum kit, with additional skills and experience on keys, percussion and backing vocals. Undergrad (English/Music) at University of Leeds (2009-2012) and MA in Ethnomusicology at University of Sheffield (2014). Drum kit and piano teacher, workshop leader, performer, session musician, and drummer in international touring street theatre show ‘Spark!’ in 2014-2023. One half of accordion-percussion duo ATFK, she is also live and/or recording drummer with Ceitidh Mac, Ruth Lyon, Grace Petrie, Beccy Owen & the Refuge, Liz Corney and Jodie Nicholson. Additionally she does frequent live dep work (recent work has included Rob Heron & the Teapad Orchestra and The Baghdaddies) and is available for tours, recording sessions and R&D projects nationwide.

In May 2021 Fran received funding from Arts Council England to develop her creative practice as an instrumental composer, arranger and ensemble leader. In 2022-23 she was one of 6 artists commissioned by Manchester Jazz Festival as part of their ‘hothouse’ development programme, and in early 2023 she participated in a residency for collaborative improvisation led by Nubya Garcia and the Manchester music charity Brighter Sound. Her duo ATFK released their sophomore album ‘Repeat For Joy’ in November 2025, and are on the 2025-26 roster of ‘Northern Line’ artists with Jazz North. Look out for upcoming tour dates in 2026.