CATHERINE Threlfall lives and breathes music.
The music therapist and leading educator has been bringing people of ages together, to learn through the arts, for more than two decades.
“I was lucky to come from a family that really actively enjoyed music, and we sang and played a lot while I was growing up,” Ms Threlfall said.
In her teenage years, she decided she wanted a career where she could combine her love of music with her love of people.
“I realised as a teenager that I really wanted to work with music and people,” Ms Threfall said, noting she studied music therapy and teaching at university.
That was more than 20 years ago now, and she hasn’t looked back.
“It gives me such joy and energy,” Ms Threlfall said.
“The people I get to meet and make music with are absolutely the highlight of my job.
“And I get to sing and dance every day.”
Relocating to Merbein from Darwin in 2014, Ms Threlfall founded Sunraysia Arts and Learning.
Her goal was to provide quality music experiences for all ages and abilities.
“Five years later, we’ve got a team of five of us providing programs for people from all walks of life,” Ms Threlfall said.
Those programs include intergenerational music sessions, drum circles and music programs for all ages and abilities.
Next week, Ouyen residents will have an opportunity to sample the Music Together program when Ms Threlfall hosts a free trial with local families.
The Music Together sessions are mixed age family classes, catering from babies to five-year olds.
“The family-like setting of mixed-age classes creates an ideal learning environment where infants, toddlers, and preschoolers can freely participate at their own levels,” Ms Threlfall said.
The 45-minute session will provide an opportunity for families to sing, dance, play instruments and have a lot of fun together.
“It is never too early to share music with children,” Ms Threlfall said, noting music can also assist with language, social, emotional and physical development.
The Ouyen Music Together trial will take place on December 10.
“Absolutely no music experience is necessary, just a willingness to have some fun,” Ms Threlfall said.
