Robert Finegan
Described as “One of the most exciting Irish saxophone players in a generation”, Robert Finegan is an award-winning saxophonist based in London.
Passionate about new music, Robert works closely with composers from around the world in the production of new works. His most recent projects include ‘A Modern View of Ancient Ireland’ for Saxophone and Electronics, and ‘Paris Chapters’ for Voice, Saxophone and Piano inspired by Irish writers who lived in Paris. These original projects have culminated in performances across Europe.
An avid soloist and chamber musician, Robert has performed at venues including the Royal Albert Hall, National Concert Hall, Dublin, Ulster Hall, Belfast, Guildhall, Derry, and Milton Court Concert Hall. As a concerto soloist, he has performed with the TU Dublin Philharmonic, Irish Films and Pops Orchestra, DIT Symphony Orchestra, and RCM Wind Ensemble.
In addition to solo performances, Robert has performed with the RTÉ National Symphony Orchestra, Ulster Orchestra, Britten and Shostakovich Festival Orchestra, and RCM Symphony, Philharmonic and Jazz Orchestras.
Robert has earned numerous awards, including prizes at the Tunbridge Wells International Competition, Royal College of Music Jane Melber Competition, Irish Freemasons Young Musician of the Year, and Flax Trust Music Award. In 2018, he became the first Yanagisawa saxophone and Vandoren reed endorsee from the Republic of Ireland.
In 2021, Robert completed his Master of Performance degree with Distinction at the Royal College of Music, London, where he was a Dr Michael West Scholar. He previously earned his Bachelor of Music (First Class Honours) from TU Dublin Conservatoire, receiving the McNamara Gold Medal for Excellence in his final year performance.
In 2018, Robert became the first saxophonist to become a Yanagisawa saxophone and Vandoren reed endorsee from the Republic of Ireland.
Robert plays: Yanagisawa SWO37, A9930, TWO20 and B991 saxophones.