Ahead of her performance at 2023's Melbourne Guitar Show, Kathleen Halloran sat down with Mixdown to share her all time favourite guitars with us.
Guitarist Kathleen Halloran’s diverse array of skills are fast making her one of the country’s most exciting and in demand musicians.
Read up on all the latest interviews here.
As Musical Director and guitarist for Australian icon Kate Ceberano, Kathleen tours and performs all around the country. She’s performed with the likes of Felix Riebl, Iva Davies, William Barton, Jade MaCrae, Jimi Hocking and Darren Middleton to name a few. As a session musician, her guitar playing as been heard on countless recordings, in orchestra pits for many musical theatre productions, and major events such as the Australian Open semifinal.
While being a passionate collaborator and side-woman, 2023 will see Kathleen push her boundaries and comfort zone, working on her debut album – set to showcase her skills as a vocalist and songwriter, as well as guitarist. Kathleen’s band set at the 2023 Melbourne Guitar Show will demonstrate her new direction. Ahead of this performance, Kathleen sat down with Mixdown to chat about her preferred six-stringed vessels for creativity – the guitars that continue to define and inform her own work to this day.
Maton EBG808TE
“This was the first guitar I ever bought with my own money and it’s still my go to for live gigs and studio work. Growing up a massive Tommy Emmanuel fan inspired my choice as a 15-year-old to save for this guitar! Such a rich, full and responsive sound that never lets me down.”
60s Original Series Fender Stratocaster
“Nothing quite compares to the sweet Strat tones of the 1960s! A great Stratocaster just makes you play a certain way… I love this guitar, it’s my comfort guitar and my go to for most gigs I do. Everyone needs a Stratocaster in their collection!”
Gibson SG
“Two words… Derek Trucks!”
The ‘Kathleen’ – William Hancock Guitars
The most touching gift I have ever received! Made from all repurposed woods… over a hundred hours of craft and labour by Melbourne guitar maker William Hancock. This guitar will always be so special to me!
Back: Blackwood two-ways and Huon Pine stringers.
Top: Repurposed Piano Spruce.
Sides: Figured Blackwood.
Fretboard: Repurposed Redgum.
Neck: Repurposed Mahogany.
Bridge: Blackwood.
Keep up to date with Kathleen Halloran here. For more information on the 2023 Melbourne Guitar show, head to their website.