Ciorstaidh Beaton

Harpist Ciorstaidh Beaton is a native Gàidhlig speaker from Kilmuir, on the Isle of Skye. A graduate of the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, and of the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, she is now working as a professional freelance harpist all over Scotland and the UK. Ciorstaidh is a versatile player, involved in a wide range of musical styles and collaborations. She is a keen orchestral player, working regularly with a variety of orchestras and ensembles across the UK. Recent performances include working with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, the Rogue Orchestra, and Scottish Opera, as well as many concerts with various music and orchestral societies across the country. During her post-graduate studies she successfully applied to the Royal Scottish National Orchestra's 'professional experience scheme', and in 2016 performed the Handel Harp Concerto with the RCS String Orchestra. In 2017 she was invited to perform in concert as a soloist at the Edinburgh International Harp Festival. Ciorstaidh frequently played with the Festival No. 6 Ensemble, performing and recording live with artists and bands such as Daughter (London's Somerset House Concert Series 2015), JAMES, Rae Morris, Shadowparty (album recording), Nadine Shah, Gaz Coombes and Temples. Ciorstaidh has joined the Carpenters Story band as part of their show tours across the UK since 2016. She is a BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award finalist, winner of the Pan Celtic Festival open harp competition, and is a Royal National Mod Gold Medalist for both clàrsach and piano competitions numerous times over. Ciorstaidh is a passionate and experienced teacher, providing lessons privately from home or online. She is the Clàrsach and Traditional Music Instructor at Douglas Academy Music School and is regularly a guest tutor within some of Scotland's leading musical institutions such as the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, St Mary's Music School, Craigholme School, East Renfrewshire Council's Music Service, The Clàrsach Society, and at Feis courses all over the country. Ciorstaidh has extensive experience in providing beautiful music for all occasions. She is available to play for all functions such as: weddings, private or corporate events, businesses, launches, christenings, baby showers, and regularly plays for high-end afternoon teas in luxury hotels, as well as rural countryside locations. She is the resident harpist at The Fife Arms Hotel. Recent clients include the Watches of Switzerland, American Express and the Ayr Races. Available to book as part of a duo e.g. Flute & Harp, Voice & Harp, Cello & Harp, Violin & Harp... or as part of a larger group. Ciorstaidh performs on a Salvi 'Diana' pedal harp, and a Starfish 'Glencoe' clàrsach.