Country
USA living in Ireland
Kathleen got her first mandolin at the age of 8 and hasn’t put it down since. She also plays the fiddle, guitar, and bass. She has played bluegrass from an early age and toured professionally for several years in the early 2000s. This included playing at the White House, taping televised performances for the Bluegrass Express program on ETV, residencies performing at Silver Dollar City in Branson, Missouri, and IBMA showcases. She continues to play informally and takes great joy in the long-lasting and meaningful friendships that she has formed through bluegrass. Kathleen holds two Bachelors of Music degrees in Music Theory and Classical Guitar Performance, and a Masters of Music in Music Theory. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Musicology. Her doctoral research focuses on exploring improvisation in the international bluegrass community. She currently teaches English as a second language in Ireland in conjunction with completing her PhD. Outside of bluegrass and academia, Kathleen has held several high-level positions in industrial and strategic project management. She has extensive experience drafting and enacting strategic plans related to organizational restructuring and process improvement. Being responsible for the growth, development and success of her work-related teams has provided the platform for Kathleen to showcase her skills that will be put to work supporting the mission of the EBMA.
Kathleen says: “Bluegrass is an important source of musical and personal fulfillment for me. Both jamming and talking with folks from around the world about this music has given me some of my most treasured memories, and I know there are more to come.”