Biography
The Sound Behind the Music
Biography
Sherryl Fitzpatrick is an Ottawa-born fiddler, piano accompanist, composer, recording artist, and highly sought-after music educator entering her 41st year of teaching. An East Coast Music Award (ECMA) nominee and three-time Ottawa Capital Music Awards nominee, Sherryl combines Québecois, Celtic, Classical, Jazz and Old-Time music to bring a diverse musical perspective to her teaching and performing. Her approach combines traditional styles with strong musical fundamentals, helping students develop confidence, versatility, and a deeper appreciation for their musical heritage. She holds Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) Grade 8 Violin with Distinction and has completed RCM theory studies at Grades 2 and 5. She continues to expand her knowledge through ongoing studies in piano and musical theory.
As a performer, Sherryl has collaborated with many of Canada's accomplished traditional musicians and has appeared at festivals, competitions, and special events throughout Canada. She is a member of Trillium's Grace, an all-women's fiddle trio, and the North Renfrew Trio. Her work as a composer and recording artist includes five recordings, two books featuring original compositions and traditional fiddles tunes.
With 26 years of piano experience, Sherryl is a sought-after accompanist for performers, fiddle competitions, and private events. She founded and directed the Ottawa Valley Fiddle Camp and the Fiddles on the Rideau Music Festival raising $30,000 to mental health organizations in Ottawa.
Passionate about the music educational process, cultural preservation, and community service, Sherryl continues to use music to bring people together, celebrate Canada's rich musical heritage, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Short Bio
Sherryl is an Ottawa native who is an East Coast Music Award and Ottawa Capital Awards nominee who is a highly skilled and sought-after traditional fiddle teacher and piano accompanist. Entering her 41st year of teaching, this prolific composer and recording artist combines traditional Quebecois, Celtic, Classical, Jazz and Old time music, giving her students a solid musical foundation. Having attained her RCM grade 8 violin distinction, Grade 2 theory (1996), Grade 5 theory (2026) and currently studying RCM Grade 4 piano, she incorporates all these styles and techniques in her playing.
Sherryl is nominated by the 2026 Ottawa Capital Music Awards in the category of Educator of the Year. She has also received two nominations by the 2024 Ottawa Capital Music Awards in the categories of: Educator of the Year and Live Music Curator of the Year for the Fiddles on the Rideau Festival. She was the Executive Director of the Fiddles on the Rideau Festival where she raised $30,000 to mental health initiatives in Ottawa.