Cathy's music studio in Bishopdale (address will be emailed one week before the event)

Cost: $30 ($50 if 2 children from one family)

Do you have a child who

- wants to make practice more fun?

- likes playing games on their instrument?

- enjoys learning alongside others?

- needs fresh motivation?

- would like some extra ideas?

We will be playing improvisation games and activities to develop creativity and musicianship. The activities will allow each participant to explore their own ideas by providing simple guidelines with emphasis on rhythm, harmony, melody and communication. Using these four concepts we will create unique and spontaneous music together!

Improvisation provides a valuable link between theory, harmony, aural training and playing an instrument. Your child will understand more about music, be motivated and freshly inspired.

- A playing ability from grade 2 - 5 is recommended. If you are outside these levels, email Cathy at cathy@irons.nz for approval before registering.

- No previous improvisation experience is necessary.

- For children under 8 it is recommended that a support parent/adult attend

Register by completing this form. Registrations are essential.

Spaces may be limited and preference given in order of registration and payment.

About Cathy:

Cathy empowers classically trained musicians to find and explore their own creative voice. She has presented improvisation workshops for the Auckland Philharmonic and Christchurch Symphony Orchestras, at the MENZA conference, at the University of Wellington, for the Marlborough Civic Orchestra and Gisborne and Rangi Ruru Girls' schools. 

A passionate musical collaborator, she is actively involved in music-based community engagement programmes throughout New Zealand and has previously been recognised for her work through the Arts Access Aotearoa Awards. As previous Head of Community Engagement for the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, she piloted new projects in the school, disability and corrections sectors, and has co-created music programmes for at-risk youth and men's support groups. She is now currently Community Engagement Artist for Chamber Music New Zealand, creating and facilitating bespoke programmes nationwide.

Cathy plays first violin in the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, and has performed and recorded with UK musicians Cliff Richard, Aled Jones and Russell Watson, and New Zealanders Brooke Fraser, Craig Smith and Amiria Grenell. In 2023 she performed for Arts On Tour NZ with her classical Nikau Harp Trio, and with her jazz hat on, tours annually with her jazz quartet, Douce Ambaince, also including aerial dancing in her performances.