Catherine Summers
Perth's Performer of Choice
There's a reason people come back to see Catherine Summers again and again — and bring their friends.
The UK-born, Perth-based jazz singer has spent over fifteen years earning her place as one of Western Australia's most beloved and in-demand live performers. A sell-out concert artist, a familiar face at the city's most prestigious venues and a performer of choice for the occasions that matter most — from intimate weddings to large-scale corporate galas, outdoor festivals to sold-out concert series.
Since arriving on the Perth music scene in 2009, Catherine has performed nationally and internationally, headlined outdoor concerts, and built a reputation that speaks for itself: warmth, sophistication, and a live music experience unlike anything else in the city.
The Voice
Catherine's voice is one of those rare instruments that critics struggle to pin down. They've reached for Amy Winehouse's earthy rasp, Diana Krall's silken warmth, Joss Stone's bluesy power — even "an Australian Adele." But audiences who've seen her live will tell you simply: she sounds like herself.
Versatile, expressive and technically extraordinary, her voice moves effortlessly from the smoky intimacy of a jazz standard to the soaring emotion of a reimagined pop classic — always with the sophisticated swing and impeccable phrasing that have made her one of Perth's most celebrated performers.
"Summers is an extraordinary singer; she looks for the offbeat emphasis and unusual lines that weave through the rhythms of a song. Her syncopation is very sophisticated." — Ian Lilburne, X-Press Magazine
"Not just a cracking vocalist, Summers' art and craft as host is equally commendable, with something of an earthy Amy Winehouse under all those sequins." — Christopher H James, The Music Online
"The ever-reliable Summers displays her lovely intonation and impeccable phrasing with panache — and she looks dressed to thrill." — Australian Stage
Sell-Out Shows & Live Concerts
Catherine is as at home on an outdoor stage in front of hundreds as she is performing an intimate cabaret-style concert for a seated audience of fifty. Her ticketed concert series — including the beloved Reimagined shows, All About Ella and The Most Iconic Jazz Divas — regularly sell out, drawing loyal audiences who follow her from venue to venue across Perth.
She has performed at some of Perth's most iconic concert venues and outdoor settings, and her shows have become some of the most talked-about jazz nights the city has to offer.
The Music — Jazz, Reimagined
Catherine's signature Reimagined shows have become a phenomenon of their own. Drawing from a deep love of both classic jazz and contemporary music, she transforms songs by Taylor Swift, Amy Winehouse, Lana Del Rey, Beyoncé, Elton John and more into something timeless — layered with improvisation, swing and unmistakable jazz soul. Think jazz like a version. Vintage feel, modern spirit.
Her 2023 album APRICITY captures this world beautifully, a critically praised collection of reimagined songs, recorded with some of Perth's finest musicians.
With a repertoire spanning over 250 songs — from The Great American Songbook greats (Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Billie Holiday, Nina Simone) to a sweeping collection of French classics by Édith Piaf, Josephine Baker and Django Reinhardt — Catherine brings something extraordinary to every performance.
Perth's Performer of Choice
When the occasion demands the very best, Catherine Summers is the name Perth turns to. She has been honoured to perform for some of Australia's most respected organisations and at the city's most prestigious venues — including Optus Stadium, Crown Perth, The Ritz-Carlton, Government House Ballroom and The State Building.
Her clients include Rio Tinto, Woodside, BHP, Lexus Australia, Blackburne Property Group, Stockland, The Hawaiian Group, Seven West Media, Perth Children's Hospital Foundation, Starlight Children's Foundation, Lifeline WA, Solaris Cancer Care, Perth Glory Football Club and many more.
From industry awards nights, Melbourne Cup events and gala balls to luxury wine estate launches, venue opening nights and intimate corporate dinners — Catherine delivers sophisticated, tailored performances that elevate every occasion.
On and Off Stage
Authenticity, warmth and kindness are at the heart of everything Catherine does. She performs with some of Perth's most treasured musicians, and every show — whether it's a grand outdoor concert or an elegant private dinner — reflects the same deep care for the music, the audience and the moment.
Whether you're a longtime jazz lover or discovering live jazz for the first time, an evening with Catherine Summers is one you won't forget.
