Riley Bender is currently pursuing a Master of Music in Flute Performance at the University of Texas at Austin, studying under Professor Ebonee Thomas. She graduated with distinction from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music in 2024, earning a Bachelor of Music in Flute Performance, a Bachelor of Music Education, and a conducting minor.

In Spring 2025, she was a finalist in the Naftzger Young Artist Competition and has previously attended Eastern Music Festival and ARIA International Summer Music Academy. In addition to the University of Texas Wind Ensemble and Symphony Orchestra, she has performed with the San Antonio Philharmonic and the Central Texas Philharmonic. Riley is a passionate educator and currently teaches a private studio of over 30 flute students in Austin, Texas.