A figure in the New York jazz scene, Frank Tate moved to the Big Apple in 1975 to join the Marian McPartland Trio. He also freelanced, working with a number of luminaries including Bobby Hackett and Dave McKenna. He was also a member of Festival Jazz, a group dedicated to furthering jazz education.

Frank has frequently appeared on the jazz festival and concert circuit. He toured with Pearl Bailey and the Louie Bellson Orchestra from 1985 to 1990.

His experience includes working as a recording artist as well as a bandleader. Most recently, Frank joined the newly formed Ruby Braff Trio, which includes guitarist Howard Alden, touring with the trio to France, Scotland and England.

From 1996 to 2005, Frank worked for Bobby Short at the Carlyle Hotel in New York and traveled with Bobby throughout the U.S., with trips to Europe and South America, as well. Recent appearances include festivals at Blackpool, England, Wilmington, North Carolina, and Atlanta.