Catrin and Toumani are from two very different cultures: the landlocked and mostly flat southern Saharan nation of Mali is one of the poorest in the world yet produces some of the most sublime music on Earth; in contrast, the lush, green valleys and soaring mountains of Wales are familiar to us all. The harp occupies a vital place in the incredibly rich culture of both nations. The West African harp – the kora – played by Toumani is made from a dried gourd and fishing line; the Welsh harp, played by Catrin, is one of the most iconic symbols of a nation steeped in music.

Toumani Diabaté is one of Africa’s most important musicians and widely considered the world’s finest living kora player. A performer of exceptional virtuosity and creativity, his pedigree goes back through 71 generations of kora players, from father to son. He has collaborated with Damon Albarn, Taj Mahal, Bjork and the late, great Ali Farka Touré with whom he won a Best Traditional World Music Album GRAMMY Award in 2006. Catrin Finch is one of Wales’ leading international musical ambassadors.

The “Queen of Harps”, Catrin was Royal Harpist to H.R.H. the Prince of Wales from 2000-2004. Her concert appearances with the world’s top orchestras span the globe and she has worked with artists including Bryn Terfel, Sir James Galway and Julian Lloyd-Webber. Catrin’s highly successful recent collaboration with Colombian harp-based band Cimarron toured Wales three times. Catrin and Toumani, harp and kora, Wales and Mali - a remarkable, unique experience.

Tour dates: 26 March – 31 March 2012

Thear Mwldan, CARDIGAN / ABERTEIFI

Theatr Brycheiniog, BRECON 

Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, CARDIFF

William Aston Hall, Glwydwr University WREXHAM 

Taliesin Arts Centre, SWANSEA