Explore the wealth of different traditional styles and music from England and Scotland on the harp. Enjoy learning tunes by ear and making them your own. Experience the joy of playing in a harp ensemble.
STANDARD: ELEMENTARY, LOWER/UPPER INTERMEDIATE, ADVANCED
Resident: £359 Non-Resident: £260 (25% off for under 27s) Code: 23/281
Booking for Members opens at 11am on Tuesday 16 May, 2023
Non-Member and online booking opens at 9am on Tuesday 13 June, 2023
For details on how to become a Member to take advantage of early booking, see here.
What is the course about?
Now a regular feature of our calendar, the Clarsach Society again joins forces with Benslow Music for this unique course for Celtic and folk harpists. We will be playing solos and ensembles and working both from notated music and by ear. The tutors will be very willing to work with you on pieces which you bring along and also inspire you by playing some beautiful celtic harp pieces of their own. We will have an informal concert on Saturday night where you can bring a piece to play or sit back and enjoy the music.
Tutor website: wwww.stephwest.co.uk
What will we cover?
We will be learning traditional repertoire on the harp, exploring the different tunes and styles available to us as harpists.
What will we accomplish? By the end of this course you will be able to…
Play a small selection of tunes from different styles.
Take home some simple left hand ideas that you could use with other tunes.
Play a part in a harp ensemble.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is aimed at players Grade 1 - 5+. The minimum requirement is to have been playing for one year and to be able to play an easy song with a simple left hand.
How will the course be taught, and will any preparation be required?
The course will be taught in a group with no preparation required. We will learn a tune in small sections, exploring fingering and memorising as we go. Time will be allowed for private practise inside the classroom, with tutor feedback given as we go.
Will music be provided in advance of the course?
No, it will be provided by the tutor on the course.
Is there anything I need to bring?
Please bring your harp and a recording device if you would like to take recordings of the tunes away with you. Music for each tune will be provided at the end of the weekend.
It may be possible to borrow or hire a harp from the Clarsach Society.
What previous participants said about this course…
“A chance to play and participate at whatever level in small and larger group sessions with wonderful teachers who are great professional players themselves. A variety of music. Also fun to associate other harpists, plus a session in the bar with fiddlers!”
“Outstanding, inspiring teaching.”
“Lots of variety. Very skilled teaching. Something for everyone, from relative beginners to quite advanced.”
“Great fun, not at all intimidating even if you're not very competent at lever harp.”