Interview by Kathryn Adkins
If you haven’t already seen Coty Catlin at NextStage Production Open Mics or at last year’s holiday show, then you must put the August 13 benefit date on your calendar. Coty will be performing in two groups, showing her musical versatility on instruments and in musical styles from Celtic with the duo Siamsa to Americana with the new to NSP group, Friends and Neighbors.
I’ve known Coty for years and sang Renaissance music as she accompanied on recorders and other early music instruments. So much fun. I asked her to tell us a bit about herself. Here is what she said.
“My former life included: being a medical assistant, a teacher of the MGM (mentally gifted minors), extracurricular program for the Pajaro school district teaching guitar, recorder, banjo, mandolin, mountain dulcimer and general music.”
In working with her husband, Dr. John Catlin, Coty traveled to Africa, China, Indonesia, Australia, Mexico, the Amazon- basically, around the world doing medical service. “Going into the villages allowed me to learn a bigger musical language with people so willing to share their culture through music. My world music instrument collection grew beyond expectations.”
What drew you to NSP?
I was introduced to everyone at NextStage when I attended an Appreciation Happy Hour at Chaminade as a guest of Matt Walker. A whole new group of people are now in my life. It was exactly what I needed at that moment. A perfect timing.
What have you appreciated the most about the NSP activities?
The opportunity to perform again in the community. I had not been doing that for several years as I was living in Murphy. Getting involved with NSP has reacquainted me with teaching and performing in Santa Cruz.
What have you discovered about yourself through working with NSP?
That I am intensively obsessive about music and playing instruments, at least 2 new instruments per year. It fills the void and has helped me heal after the passing of my husband of 40 years.
What would you tell someone who is curious and/or thinking about joining NSP?
Go to the performances and see how much fun the performers are having. They enjoy what they do, the people they perform with and the joy it brings to the audience. It’s a joyful experience.