Described as “One of the most exciting Irish saxophone players in a generation”, Robert Finegan is an award-winning saxophonist who recently completed the Master of Performance degree, with Distinction, in the Royal College of Music, London, where he was a Dr Michael West Scholar. He obtained his Bachelor of Music (First Class Honours) from TU Dublin Conservatory of Music and
Drama.
Passionate about new music, Robert works closely with composers in the production of new works. Currently he is working with three Irish composers in the production of three works for saxophone and electronics based on the theme ‘A Modern View of Ancient Ireland’ and, will premiere Singaporean composer, Goi Ywei Chern’s Soprano Saxophone Concertino with the RCM Wind Ensemble in 2021.
Since then, Robert has amassed an impressive list of awards and achievements that include Distinction in the 2021 Tunbridge Wells International Competition, 1st prize in the RCM Jane Melber Saxophone prize, 2nd prize in the Irish Freemasons Young Musician of the Year, becoming the first saxophonist to make it to the final, as well as winning the inaugural Flax Trust Music Award in 2017.
In summer 2018, Robert represented Ireland at the World Saxophone Congress in Zagreb, Croatia playing music by contemporary Irish composers. Robert also made his London debut performing as an opening act for the 2019 Champions Tennis in
the Royal Albert Hall.
In addition to solo performances, Robert has performed with the RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra, Ulster Orchestra, RCM Symphony and Philharmonic Orchestras, Hibernian Orchestra, Irish Films and Pops Orchestra, as well as lead alto saxophone of the 2020/21 RCM Jazz Orchestra.