Playing the Proms

Q&A with Catherine Wright

catherine wrightFinal year music student, Catherine Wright (piano), is preparing to perform at this year’s Welsh Proms. Catherine already has a busy concert schedule and plans to return to RWCMD next year to embark on the MA Music Performance.

Her Proms programme will include Rachmaninoff’s Preludes for Piano and Chopin’s Nocturne in C# Minor Op. Posth and Ballade No. 4. She managed to spare a few minutes in between rehearsing to talk to us.

How did you get the Proms gig?

I performed in a number of solo lunchtime series at the Cardiff Central Library and someone from St David’s hall heard me play and put my name forward.

What does it mean to you to play the Welsh Proms?

Growing up, I used to watch the Proms every summer. It’s such an amazing feeling to know that this year I’ll be performing! Playing at the Proms - where pianists such as Peter Donohoe and Lang Lang have performed in the past - is an exciting prospect to say the least. I feel so honoured and privileged to be asked to be part of such a prestigious event.

What’s your next career move?

I am planning to continue my studies at the Royal Welsh College. I’ll be starting the MA Music Performance in September. This will provide me with a regular performance platform with opportunities throughout the two-year course. I also have a few concerts lined up over the 2010 summer period to look forward to.

What is your ultimate ambition?

Well, I would love to be nominated for a Classical Brit Award one day! Ever since I started learning the piano, my ambition has been to be a classical recording artist and concert pianist. I would love to tour all over the world performing in venues such as the Vienna Musikverein and the Sydney Opera house and maybe even headline at the BBC London Proms in the Royal Albert hall one day, who knows!

How have you found studying at RWCMD?

My four years at RWCMD have truly been the best years of my life. I’ve had so many memorable experiences and met some amazing and inspiring people. The college has such a vibrant and positive atmosphere about it, and I have always been encouraged to bring out my individuality as a performer, to which I am very grateful.

Catherine is performing at the Welsh Proms on Sat 17 July at 4:30pm (free, Level 3 Lounge). See the St David’s Hall website for more information.