Kaitlin McCarthy

Percussion

Kaitlin McCarthy is a local gal from Monument, CO with degrees from University of Northern Colorado. But you wouldn’t know her homespun background by her professional performances with her Gospel/jazz/soul band, MTM which has performed in 20 states and 8 countries. Kaitlin started with Denver Brass as Associate Director in 2003 (thanks to Jason for basically 15 years of percussion instruction!), but now we enjoy her as one of our illustrious percussionists. She also plays recorder on our Celtic concerts and keyboard when needed. That would be more than enough for a normal person, but Kaitlin is our Wonder Woman and has arranged over 65 pieces for the Denver Brass. These carefully-crafted, delightful, and often crazy arrangements are responsible for much of the personality and tonal spectra of the Denver Brass. It should also be known that one of her degrees was in horn performance at UNC where she studied with former/retired Denver Brass hornist, Jack Herrick.

Kaitlin was born to be a musician – not only exemplified by her many musical accomplishments but the fact that she is blessed (cursed) with perfect pitch to go with all the rest of her talents. For Kaitlin, music isn’t her only love. It offers her the vehicle to help people in need (she has worked with women in India through MOPS), to teach the joy of music to children, to deeply enjoy the creativity of others and to spread her belief that we can all learn from each other. Kaitlin’s inspiration in life has come from God, her parents and John Williams. That says it all!