Sarah Cathcart | Music / Performing Arts

I am a passionate musician that has grown up in a musical family, fully immersed in the musical community. I have been playing the violin since I was 3, learning via the Suzuki method and am now a trained teen teacher through the Suzuki Teen Training Programme. I am the ConcertMaster for Youth Orchestra Waikato and gained this leadership position in 2019. I have been selected for the NZSSSO since 2019 and as a first violinist since 2020. I have gained an Associateship Diploma from Trinity College of London in violin performance. In 2019 I received the Trinity College of London Exhibition Award for gaining the highest mark in New Zealand for the Advanced Certificate Exam in Violin Performance. I have been undefeated in the Hamilton competitions since 2016 and this year I was nominated for the PACANZ Competitions. Music has taught me so much including teamwork, perseverance, and the importance of hard work. I would not be where I am today without those values. I have learned to listen and be sensitive to others and had the wonderful experience of being part of something much bigger than myself. As a musician, I have found there is a perception that musicians are talented and that they don’t have to work very hard. I know this is the opposite and the real talent is having the ability to persevere when things get tough. I have learnt that when I am struggling with something I have to keep trying and work hard every day to improve. Being a violinist has also taught me skills that I can use anywhere in life. I am incredibly grateful for all music has given me and I look forward to seeing what my future holds.