Sleeve Notes

Some years ago John Hollis, manager of Cimarron, had the idea of bringing Carlos Rojas and his band to the UK to embark on a journey of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The idea was to use the harp as a reference point and seek collaborations with musicians in each country. An attempt to work in Scotland came to nothing and the idea was shelved until, a few years later, John mentioned the plan to Dilwyn Davies of Theatr Mwldan, Cardigan, Wales.

After discussion with fellow colleagues, Elen ap Robert of Galeri, Caernarfon suggested Catrin Finch as the ideal Welsh harpist for the collaboration. Catrin, who had just finished a film documentary in which she traced origins of the harp around the world (including a visit to South America), jumped at the chance whilst Carlos became similarly excited at the prospect of working with an artist of her stature.

A production partnership was formed between Astar Artes, Theatr Mwldan, Galeri, Theatr Brycheiniog and Creu Cymru (the Welsh touring agency). Funding was secured, a tour was planned, and the artists began to share music and correspond by email. Armed with a few ideas for the show and drawing on traditions from both cultures, Catrin and Cimarron met up for the first time in November 2007 at Galeri, Caernarfon. During four intense days of rehearsal, Catrin got to grips with Colombian polyrhythms whilst the musicians from Cimarron adapted their style to unfamiliar melodies.

Taking on the challenge and stimulus of live performance, Catrin and Cimarron went on to tour eight theatres and arts centres In Wales and the music continued to mature and develop. The same rewarding result was repeated everywhere:
sell-out audiences and standing ovations. The pieces featured on this album are from the concert repertoire that received such an ecstatic response, recorded live on the final night of the tour.

It has been an inspiring journey for Catrin and Cimarron and they have been looking forward to the second chapter, a longer tour of Wales in March 2009, which we trust will not be their last together.