Conductor
Catherine is an energetic and passionate conductor who specializes in youth ensembles. She is the Music Director of the Music Advancement Program (MAP) at The Juilliard School, the Music Director of the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra (MYO) Nassau Symphony Orchestra, and the Director of Orchestras at Herricks High School. Under her direction, the Herricks High School Chamber Orchestra has won numerous awards at the local and national level for their nuanced and exciting performances. An enthusiastic advocate for new music, Catherine is committed to broadening the experience of young musicians by ensuring they experience diversity in programming choices. She is a sought after guest conductor for collegiate orchestras and Area All State festivals across New York State.
Violinist
Catherine is known as a bold player and natural leader. She is the Concertmaster of the South Shore Symphony Orchestra and the Long Island Lyric Opera Company. She has performed with many stars of Broadway and American musical icons, including Kelli O’Hara, Laura Benanti, Sierra Boggess, Norm Lewis, Matthew Morrison, Judy Collins, Jimmy Webb, and Bobby Vinton. She is a student of the late William DePasquale, former Co-Concertmaster of the Philadelphia Orchestra.
Educator
Catherine has earned a reputation in the Music Education community for being a compelling and charismatic teacher for students of all ages. As a public school music teacher at Herricks High School, she conducts over 200 students in four thriving orchestras. Her ensembles consistently earn the highest ratings and awards at regional and national level music festivals and competitions. Catherine coaches numerous small chamber ensembles at Herricks as well. Her ensembles have earned high honors, including participation in the Music for All National Chamber Music Festival and annual participation in the Lincoln Center Chamber Music Society’s (CMS) Young Musicians Program competition, where her groups consistently advance to the final rounds, performing at Alice Tully Hall.
Catherine is an adjunct faculty member at Hofstra University in the Music Education Department, currently teaching Undergraduate and Graduate String Methods. She is often invited to give workshops and present as a Guest Speaker for pre-service music educators.
Catherine’s Highlights