Catherine Frew
Born in Scotland but doing all her growing up in Manchester, Catherine enjoyed a vibrant and inspiring musical education, full of wonderful opportunities with school-based ensembles and regional youth orchestras. She returned north to study Music and English at the University of Glasgow, and then did her Masters in Music, focusing on the History of Instruments, at the University of Edinburgh. Staying in Edinburgh to undertake her PGCE, Catherine taught in West Lothian for five years before being appointed to her current role at The City of Edinburgh Music School at Broughton High School in 2004. Her job involves delivering a bespoke Music Curriculum to S1-6 students in the Music School in Music History, Theory and Composition, as well as teaching in the Music Department. She also conducts the Senior Chamber Choir and takes a whole school lead in organising Wider Achievement activities and house events.
When she’s not at work Catherine is the Principal Double Bass in Scottish Sinfonia, as well as playing in other orchestras, bands and ensembles as the opportunities arise. She is the Choral Director at St Paul’s & St George’s and writes arrangements for various instrumental ensembles there. And when she’s not rehearsing or arranging, she swims and fits in as much competitive netball as she possibly can! Catherine is married to Tim, and they have two grown-up children, who also love their music and their sport.
Catherine loves being on the EYO board to encourage and inspire the next generation of orchestral musicians.