Kat and Cha performing together in a warm studio setting
Our story

About Katcha Music

Where Music Becomes Family

For more than 16 years, Katcha Music has been helping people discover the confidence, creativity and joy that music brings.

Founded in 2009 as Katcha Live Studio, what began as a small teaching studio has grown into a vibrant musical community where students of all ages learn, perform, create and belong.

At the heart of Katcha Music are husband and wife team Kat Ferguson and Chaminda "Cha" Samaraweera— two passionate musicians, performers, songwriters and mentors who believe music has the power to transform lives.

"Learning music isn't just about playing the right notes—it's about finding your voice, building confidence and sharing something meaningful with others."
Kat and Cha smiling together in the studio

More than music lessons

Every journey is valued.

Whether you're learning your very first chord, preparing for your first live performance, writing your own songs or recording original music, every student is encouraged to discover their own musical identity.

Some students dream of performing on major stages. Others simply want to enjoy playing music at home with family and friends. Both journeys are equally valuable.

At Katcha Music, success isn't measured by fame—it's measured by confidence, growth and the joy of creating music.

Every lesson is tailored to the individual, allowing students to learn at their own pace while developing real-world musical skills that extend far beyond the practice room.

Learning through real experience

Music comes alive when it is shared.

What makes Katcha Music different is its commitment to giving students genuine performance experiences.

Students regularly have opportunities to perform at professional live venues throughout Sydney, developing confidence, stage presence and the ability to connect with an audience.

These performances are far more than concerts—they are celebrations of each student's personal journey.

Alongside live performance opportunities, students are introduced to songwriting, recording, creative collaboration and the realities of the modern music industry. The goal is not simply to produce musicians, but confident performers, creators and storytellers.

The warm Katcha Music studio interior where students learn and record

A place for everyone

Welcoming students of every age and experience.

No matter where you are on your musical journey, you'll find a welcoming community that encourages creativity, patience and personal growth.

Taking your very first lesson

Returning to music after many years

Preparing for live performance

Learning purely for enjoyment

Recording your own songs

Developing professional skills

Lessons available in

Singing & Vocal Coaching
Piano & Keyboard
Guitar
Drums & Percussion
Songwriting
Music Performance
Recording & Production
Located in West Ryde, Sydney — home to more than 60 students every week.

Building confidence through performance

Practice builds ability. Performance builds confidence.

Every student is encouraged to take part in live showcases held at respected music venues throughout Sydney. Over the years, Katcha Music students have proudly performed at venues including:

Dundas Sports Club
Sydney LiveHouse
Camelot Lounge
Cat & Fiddle Hotel
Bayview Hotel
MarsHill Café
Ryde Ex Club
Parramatta Park Café & Event Centre

...and many more.

Kat Ferguson, singer, guitarist, keyboard player and mentor
Meet Kat Ferguson

Singer • Guitarist • Keyboard Player • Songwriter • Mentor

Helping students discover confidence through music.

Kat Ferguson is an accomplished singer-songwriter, performer and educator whose career has taken her from intimate recording studios to stages across Australia.

Performing more than 200 live shows every year alongside her husband Cha, Kat combines exceptional musicianship with an infectious passion for helping others discover their own musical potential.

Her songwriting has received international recognition, including mentorship from legendary producer David Kershenbaum, whose work includes artists such as Tracy Chapman, The Police and Styx.

She has also been recognised in international songwriting competitions, with her vocal performances receiving praise from industry icons including Robin Gibb of the Bee Gees.

Today, Kat continues to record original music while mentoring students across a wide range of musical styles. Her greatest achievement, however, is helping students discover confidence in themselves through music.

Meet Chaminda "Cha" Samaraweera

Drummer • Vocalist • Songwriter • Producer • Mentor

Encouraging creativity, confidence and resilience.

Chaminda "Cha" Samaraweera has dedicated his life to music from an early age. Originally from Sri Lanka, he began performing professionally as a teenager before moving to Australia, where he built an extensive career as a performer, songwriter, producer and industry professional.

His musical journey has included national touring, recording projects and collaborations with numerous artists, including performing with the band Whitehouse, which received government funding to record and tour Australia.

Together with Kat, Cha has written and released original music that has achieved multiple number-one positions on commercial South Asian radio stations.

Beyond performing more than 200 live shows each year, Cha also works within the live entertainment industry, helping connect artists, venues and audiences while continuing to mentor emerging musicians.

His passion for teaching is reflected in every lesson, encouraging students to develop not only technical ability but also confidence, creativity and resilience.

Cha Samaraweera, drummer, vocalist, producer and mentor
Our mission

Music is meant to be shared.

Whether you're performing in front of thousands, writing songs from your bedroom, recording your first demo or simply playing for your family, music has the power to create confidence, connection and lifelong memories.

Our role is to help you discover that confidence while supporting you every step of your musical journey.

Because here at Katcha Music...

Music doesn't just teach skills. It builds people.

And that's why we say— Where Music Becomes Family.

Ready to begin your journey?

Book a trial lesson, meet Kat and Cha, and discover why Katcha Music is more than a school—it's a place where you belong.

Book Now