A singer-songwriter, who studied in Leeds, has secured a sought-after slot at this year’s Glastonbury Festival through the Emerging Talent Competition.
The free-to-enter competition attracts thousands of online entries each year which are whittled down by an expert panel.
Mali Hâf was one of just eight artists to reach the live final at Pilton Working Men’s Club and wowed the judges who included festival organisers Michael and Emily Eavis, Glastonbury stage bookers and music business professionals.
The 27-year-old from Cardiff, who cites influences such as Gwenno, Kate Bush and Björk, was named one of the runners-up and also received a £2,500 Talent Development prize from the PRS Foundation.
On playing at one of the world’s biggest outdoor music festivals this summer, Mali said, “I’ve made something that feels like a part of me and to get recognised in this way, I can’t say how much it means.
It’s overwhelming in the most wonderful way. Up until now, I’ve only really performed in Wales, mostly singing in Welsh (a minority language). It’s shown me that my voice and my stories might be ready to travel.”
Mali studied Popular Music at Leeds Conservatoire, formerly Leeds College of Music. The creative institution is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2025.
Being surrounded by a wide range of talent as a student made Mali hungry to create and figure out who she is as an artist, something she has continued to work on since completing her course.
Reflecting on her time in the City, Mali said “You might be surprised by how much you have learned from Leeds along the way.”
This year’s Glastonbury Festival is taking place from 25 to 29 June. Headliners are The 1975, Neil Young and Olivia Rodrigo, with the Sunday legends slot being filled by Rod Stewart.
Find out more about the festival at glastonburyfestivals.co.uk.
Visit leedsconservatoire.ac.uk for more on Leeds Conservatoire.
Follow @malihahahaf on Instagram.id
Photograph by adamwithcanon.
