Captivating audiences with her unique blend of classical and classic rock, harpist Kristan Toczko has recently made waves with her debut album, “Rock Echoes,” showcasing her remarkable talent for fusing genres. Originally hailing from Moncton, Toczko has garnered widespread recognition for her captivating renditions of rock classics on the harp, amassing a sizable following of 2.5 million on TikTоk.

Inspired by the orchestral arrangements of music from video games and films, Toczko embarked on her journey of translating beloved rock anthems to the classical realm in early 2020. Delving into the intricate guitar solos that define many rock songs, she embraced the challenge of adapting these complex pieces for the harp, a task she tackled with both passion and determination.

Reflecting on her decision to tackle such demanding material, Toczko admits to questioning herself at times, particularly when faced with the formidable guitar solos. Yet, her perseverance paid off, resulting in an album she is immensely proud of.

One particular highlight in Toczko’s journey came in 2021 when her cover of Metallica’s “Nothing Else Matters” caught the attention of the band themselves. To her delight, Metallica not only praised her performance but also reached out to include her video in a slideshow for their 40th-anniversary concert in San Francisco. Although she couldn’t attend the concert in person, Toczko was overwhelmed with gratitude and excitement at the opportunity to share the stage, albeit virtually, with such iconic musicians.

Thanks to the support of her dedicated followers, Toczko was able to witness her own performance featured alongside Metallica’s electrifying show. This moment served as a testament to her talent and the power of music to transcend boundaries and connect people across the globe.