Jazz Insights: Catherine Pratte

Jazz enthusiast and veteran violinist Catherine Pratte was born in Providence. Cathy, who now lives in Bristol, graduated Salve Regina University in Newport and went on to receive two master’s degrees and a doctorate in education. She has played violin for more than 60 years, of which some 35 years were with the late famous Joseph Conte, who had dabbled in all facets of music, including jazz. Her background includes many years working for the Providence School Department as a music therapist, helping to solve local youth’s problems with unique musical approaches.

Today Cathy is totally enthralled in the jazz art-form, following talented performers like the great and famous Mike Renzi. She has become a jazz critic, supporting local jazz venues, and we are lucky to have her and her following grace the current jazz events in Rhode Island.

Jazz will survive, with the help of individuals like Cathy Pratte involved.