Cathy Morris

Cathy Morris – Violinist, bandleader, and composer. Columbus native Cathy Morris is a well-known electric violinist throughout the jazz world. After graduating from Indiana University with a performance degree, Morris has established herself as an energetic force in jazz education and jazz performance throughout Central Indiana. Since 1993, Morris has produced seven CDs of original music with various accompanying musicians, including area greats Royce Campbell (guitar), Steve Dokken (bass), and Gary Walters (keyboards). Adept at a wide range of styles, she has led a variety of ensembles, such as Collage (contemporary or smooth jazz), Cathy Morris Latin Band (or Brazilian Lounge Band), and Silken Strings (Classical). One of the most active performers in Indianapolis in the past two decades, Morris has made multiple appearances at the Indy Jazz Fest and has been a regular at the Chatterbox, Jazz Kitchen, Animals and All That Jazz (Indianapolis Zoo), the Concerts on the Canal series, and the Conrad (with her Brunch band). In addition, she and Collage have toured Japan, where she shared the billing with guitarist and band member Royce Campbell. She has also played for President Clinton and has performed with David Baker, David Darling, and Darol Anger. An artist of Young Audiences Indiana, she regularly gives workshops and performances in area schools. In 2003, she was inducted into the Indianapolis Jazz Foundation Hall of Fame.