Claire Whitehead is a multi-instrumentalist performer and songwriter who primarily plays violin and guitar (acoustic and electric). She has a minor in Music from the University of Guelph and over 15 years of performance experience, touring with bands all across Canada, the U.S. and parts of Europe, including performances at SXSW, POP Montreal, Hillside Festival and more. As a songwriter, Claire writes lyrical and melody-driven songs, under the name Midswim, that have been described by listeners as “elemental” and “alive.” She has received grants from the London Arts Council and FACTOR, for her songwriting and recording projects. She has also volunteered as an instrument instructor and band coach at Girls Rock Camp Toronto and GGRC+ for a total of 4 years.

Her violin training began in classical music at the age of 8, from the Suzuki school and has evolved over 25 years to include contemporary folk, rock and experimental free jazz styles as well. As a violin teacher, Claire focuses on guiding students through the first, crucial steps of understanding the instrument and the skills required to play their first few songs before deepening their practice through a syllabus. As a guitar teacher, Claire teaches beginner acoustic guitar skills, such as open chords and scale exercises as well as songs and strumming patterns. Similarly, on electric guitar, the beginner chords and exercises are provided as well as basic lessons in amp, pick-up and pedal uses. As an accomplished songwriter, Claire also offers assistance with personal songwriting goals as well.