Cathy Hirata is the owner and director of Where
Music Begins, a full-service children's music studio in
Pleasanton and one of the Lead Representatives of
the Greater San Francisco Bay Area Partnership of
Kindermusik Educators. Cathy has also been
designated by Kindermusik International as a Maestro
in Outreach due to her wonderful work with special
needs children.

At Where Music Begins, Cathy supervises a talented
staff including Kindermusik educators Lindy Hirata
and Karen Allen. A native of Pleasanton and a
graduate of Amador Valley High School, Cathy's
background includes 16 years of classical study of
voice and piano including training with the founding
members of Opera San Jose -- New York
Metropolitan Opera Singer Irene Dalis and former
Oberlin College Professor David Rohrbaugh.  

A scholarship recipient and graduate of San Jose State
University, Cathy received a Bachelor of Music
Degree in Vocal Performance, going on to complete a
secondary teaching credential in music education.  
She has taught elementary and high school choir,
piano, theory, history and music appreciation.  In
addition to being a Licensed Kindermusik Educator,
she is also a Senior Associate Simply Music Teacher
and Signing Smart educator.

E-mail Cathy...
  
  "Karen's ability to make each child feel wonderful,
  confident and special provides an enriching experience
  for both child and parent. Karen combines her strength
  of teaching children and her love of music to make each
  class seem fun while educational.  My 2 year old asks to
  see Miss Karen and go to music class.  Where Music
  Begins is a wonderful, professional example for my
  daughter and son."

- Diane Belluchi

"We have thoroughly enjoyed Kindermusik
and are looking forward to spending the summer with you.
Taty loves this class.  I sense it is her favorite class
of all time. We have tried a number of classes
and she really appears to come out of her shell with
Kindermusik/Where Music Begins.  
Thanks for making a difference in her life!"

- BaBette
About Cathy