About

Katya Roberts is an accomplished and emerging multi-instrumentalist in the traditional Irish music community, currently based in Minnesota. Known for her expressive style and technical command, she performs on the tin whistle, Irish flute, and uilleann pipes.

She began playing Irish music at a young age and has steadily built both regional and national recognition for her phrasing, rhythmic lift, and commitment to stylistic authenticity. Raised in a musical family, Katya was strongly influenced by her father, an Irish bouzouki player who frequently accompanies her. As part of a younger generation shaped by mentorship and tradition, she contributes to sustaining and evolving Irish traditional music across the American Midwest.

Katya’s performance experience spans sessions, competitions, and festivals. She spent many years performing with The Center for Irish Music’s Advanced Youth Ensemble, has collaborated with a range of musicians, and most recently performs with her own group, Kindred Crescent. Her appearances include events such as Minnesota’s Irish Arts Day of Dance and the Irish Fair of Minnesota.

A dedicated competitor, Katya has been a regular participant in the Midwest Fleadh Cheoil, earning multiple first-place titles in both tin whistle and flute. She has held the title of Midwest Tin Whistle Champion since 2019. She has also competed at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann (The All-Ireland Music Festival), where she has represented the Midwest in both whistle and flute competitions.

In recognition of her talent and dedication, Katya has received several honors, including the James M. Curley Scholarship for exceptional talent, commitment, and persistence; the Fitz Memorial Scholarship for musical excellence and dedication; and an educational grant from Irish Arts Minnesota.

Today, Katya performs as both a solo artist and a member of Kindred Crescent, continuing to share traditional Irish music with audiences while helping carry the tradition forward.