The GMTA is excited to announce that Cathy and Catie will be conducting this Workshop for students with focus being on playing folk music.

Cathy & Catie are a Geelong-based mother–daughter string duo with extensive experience in both classical and Celtic folk music. Cathy Blake is an accomplished violinist, violist, and educator with over 40 years of teaching and performing experience, including long-standing involvement in music camps, orchestras, and folk festivals across Australia. Catie Alison (Martin) is an award-winning cellist and singer-songwriter who has toured internationally, released original music, and performed widely across folk and contemporary settings.

In this workshop, participants will explore Irish, Scottish, and selected American folk music, developing melody, harmony, rhythm, and ensemble skills. Tunes will be taught by ear, with supporting sheet music provided, and the class is suitable for a wide range of instruments including violin, viola, cello, bass, flute, Irish whistle, Celtic drum, harp, accordion, and mandolin