معرفی
Cathy Clayton serves as Professor (Lecturer) at the University of Utah's School of Music, where she has progressed through academic ranks since 2007 from Adjunct Assistant Professor to her current position. She directs the Crimson Harps, the University of Utah Harp Ensemble, and maintains an active performance schedule across Utah and neighboring states.
Her research interests focus on Welsh harp traditions, particularly examining John Thomas's contributions as a Welsh nationalistic composer. She has presented papers on Welsh harp music at the Society for Ethnomusicology Regional Conference and continues to explore connections between harp repertoire and cultural identity.
Clayton teaches a diverse range of courses including Harp Performance, World Music, Survey of Jazz, Music Theory, and Introduction to Music History. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes cultural context, technical development, and encouraging students to become independent professional harpists capable of excelling in orchestral, solo, and ensemble settings.
Her musical performances span community outreach, educational settings, and professional venues including the Utah Governor's Mansion and the United States Olympic Committee. Recent performance trends show significant community engagement through assisted living center concerts and educational partnerships with schools.
- Nominated for Faculty Excellence in Teaching Award (2015)
- DMA Document honored in American Harp Society Journal (2014)
- President of the Society for Ethnomusicology, Southwest Chapter (2017)
Clayton actively mentors harp students who have gone on to attend prominent institutions including the Manhattan School of Music and Eastman School of Music. She has secured grants including the Dean's Travel Fund Award for the Crimson Harps Concert Tour of Portland, Oregon and a Sustainability Grant from the University of Utah's Office of Sustainability.
As director of Crimson Harps, she leads the University of Utah's harp ensemble in regular performances and tours, most recently completing successful tours of Portland, Oregon and San Diego, California. The ensemble regularly performs for community events, assisted living centers, and university functions.
