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The Story of MITTEN!
Mitten is a trio comprised of Catherine Hawkes, Gretchen Holtz-Nall, and Sophia Travis. The group began as a funny little ensemble for a Christmas program. At one time the instruments included harpsichord, cello, drums, and theramin. Over the years, the most active members of the ensemble evolved into a trio featuring Gretchen playing drums, Catherine as a multi-instrumentalist, and Sophia playing accordion. Sophia's harpsichord was too difficult to transport conveniently and abandoned in favor of her "Stomach Steinway" …theraminists Tony Whitlock and Charles McCormick and cellist Geraldine Haas have moved away from Bloomington. This leaves sampling the required cake Mitten requests at any and all wedding receptions to Sophia, Gretchen, and Catherine! Catherine employs the beautiful mandolin, tenor banjo, and a mysterious set of suitcases intricately packed with bells, whistles, shakers, rattles, whatnots and whatchamajigs…seriously, a great part of a Mitten performance is watching our dear Catherine clanking, buzzing, whirring, jingling, and organizing. | 
Hoosier Squeeze Poster by Sophia Travis |
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Gretchen's punk-rock sensibility has alarmingly given way to "jazz hands" and the genetic hardwiring for nostalgic music imparted to her by way of her famous dance band conductor grandfather…her whimsical touch and a mischievous streak make her an indispensable part of the group. It is Gretchen who deemed the group to be named "Mitten!" Mitten has played for countless wine-tastings (one of our favorites), art openings, weddings, celebrations, parks series, benefits, etc. Perhaps one of the most cherished annual events we look forward to is the Amethyst House's benefit dinner, dance and art auction. Mitten is also frequently honored when asked to perform for dedication ceremonies for the completion of homes built by Habitat for Humanity. Finally, unique programs have been created for special occasions like the summer afternoons we've been invited to play at the T.C. Steele House Museum in Brown County, Indiana. For such a day, Mitten plays turn of the century nostalgic songs mixed in with our vintage inspired repertoire that includes French café tunes, tangos, Cajun songs, Neapolitan melodies, Finnish tunes, and much more! | |
Hoosier Squeeze
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