Catherine has over 20 years of musical training and has been inspiring school and community groups to explore their creativity and musicality since 2003.

• Piano: studied with Stuart Insley & Stephanie Cant
• Bassoon: studied with Sam Gurney, Stephen Raey & Laurence Perkins
• Singing: studied with Yvonne Seymour & coaching from Susie Self
• BA (hons) Music, University of York
• MA in Community Music (with distinction), University of York

• Sir Thomas Beecham Scholarship for performance
• National Volunteering Award for setting up the Music Education Group, MEG!
• Dartington Summer School & Musicians' Benevolent Fund Scholarship to attend the Summerschool for a fortnight to study under Steve Drummer, Laurence Perkins & Susie Self.

Catherine has formally studied piano, bassoon, singing and composition. She was awarded the Sir Thomas Beecham Scholarship for performance and studied Music at the University of York. During her student years Catherine was a founding member of the National Award winning voluntary Music Education Group, MEG! (This article refers to Catherine under her maiden name of Holbrook).



Catherine's dedication to sharing her passion for music with others led her to pursue postgraduate studies in Community Music. A Masters degree for which she was awarded a distinction, and which she has been invited back to teach on.

As well as supervising practical work on the course, Catherine has lectured on Community Arts topics including: workshop planning skills, workshop delivery, accessibility & the gamelan, reflective practice & evaluation.



Currently based in York, Catherine works as a freelance musician designing and delivering music projects in a range of education and community settings. She also trains artists and teachers in working creatively with music.

Catherine is committed to her continuing development as a Musician and Practitioner and a strong ethic of reflective practice is evident in her work. She regularly engages in both private research and debate with other musicians and community practitioners. She also regularly attends training courses.