To celebrate the release of her debut CD, ‘Touching gold’, Claire hosted a thoroughly exciting evening at Rhosygilwen’s Oak Hall, near her hometown of Crymych, Permbrokeshire on December 10th 2007. Performing alongside her were percussionist Dewi Ellis Jones and Crymych Choir, whom Claire accompanied for 5 years.
In anticipation of the evening’s event, Claire performed for a number of schoolchildren throughout the day, again pursuing her endeavour to expose young people to classical music and encourage interest towards the harp in particular. Speaking before the event, Claire said “I’m very much looking forward to seeing the Primary Schools again, and also to spending time with my family and friends in Crymych over the time of the launch, as it is an important milestone for me”.
Claire began planning her CD in early 2007. In a reflection of her broad musical talents and interests, ‘Touching Gold’ incorporates tracks rooted in violin and string composition, as well as jazz standards and her own arrangements of harp solos.
The CD was recorded at Kissan studios Cardiff, and at the studios in the Royal College of Music, London. In contrast to the sound of the solo harp, many of the tracks utilize full orchestral backing - many of the players being long- time friends and acquaintances of Claire’s from the RCM. Claire added- “I will always be thankful to them all for helping and supporting me in creating my first CD”.
