Fay Hield is a respected figure within the British folk music scene, known for her deep engagement with traditional songs and their histories. Holding a PhD in Ethnomusicology, Fay is not just a performer but also an academic and an enthusiastic promoter of folk music traditions. She has taught Ethnomusicology at the University of Sheffield and remains heavily involved in the development and advancement of folk traditions through various initiatives, one of which is the Soundpost organization she co-founded, aimed at fostering community through music.

Her musical career is distinguished by a profound respect for the rich tapestry of folk narratives and an unwavering commitment to the authenticity of her craft. Hield's discography showcases this dedication, with albums like "Old Adam" and "Looking Glass" revealing a curator's touch in their selection of material. Her 2020 release "Wrackline" explores themes of the human psyche, storytelling, and the intersection of myth and reality, featuring reimaginings of traditional songs alongside her own original compositions. With her distinctive voice and interpretative skill, Fay weaves together her scholarly insights and a creative spirit, consistently delivering performances that resonate both with the purists of the genre and with those who discover it anew through her work.