Catrin Finch

Catrin Finch

Catrin Finch is a Welsh harpist, arranger and composer from the United Kingdom. Born in 1980, she is known for work on the harp, the national instrument of Wales.

Early life and training

Finch first decides to learn the harp after hearing Spanish harpist Marisa Robles in recital when she is five. At ten, she performs at the World Harp Congress in Paris. At eleven, she becomes the youngest performer in a BBC Promenade Concert at the Royal Albert Hall.

Professional career

From 2000 to 2004, Finch serves as Official Harpist to the Prince of Wales. The role is also described as Royal Harpist to HRH the Prince of Wales. She gives recitals at venues around the world and is Visiting Professor at both the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama and the Royal Academy of Music in London.

Recordings and collaboration

Beginning in 2013, Finch records three albums with Senegalese kora player Seckou Keita under the name Catrin Finch & Seckou Keita. The pair also tour widely. Her collaborative work with Keita appears under the project name Catrin Finch & Seckou Keita.

Honours

Finch receives academic honours including Honorary Fellowships from the University of Wales and the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama in 2005, followed by an Honorary Fellowship from the University of Wales in 2006.