That's a Wrap

Well, another successful and delightful Spring recital is in the books.  Now everyone can heave a sigh of relief.  The benefits of performing in a recital far outweigh the butterflies beforehand!  The experience you gain and the confidence that comes with each performance is invaluable.  A lot of planning, practice and preparation goes into making it a successful experience.
   

Here are some tips, pointers and suggestions to help you prepare and be proud of any performance:

The way you practice in preparation for a performance is different than daily practice.  Start playing your piece from start to finish; instead of working on it in small segments as you have been doing.  Always work on those rough spots as you go if they crop up.  Have places in your piece where you can go to if things fall apart (called repair points), so that you can skip ahead or backward to those spots and carry on. Sometime, I'll tell the story of when my mind went completely blank in the middle of a performance.  Thank goodness for my repair point!!  It saved the day.  Make sure that you have the beginning of your piece very solid under your fingers.  That's the time you are likely to have the most butterflies and your fingers may be shaking.   If you slightly tense up your fingers during those moments, it will help with the shaking.  Once you are into the music a few bars, you probably will relax.

When you have it perfected, play your piece for your family, friends or video recorder.  It is very different from just playing for yourself in the comfort of your room.  Videoing yourself is a real learning experience.  You get to see your posture, your facial expressions, your technique as well as hearing yourself play the piece.   I also have my students practice how they will end.  When you finish, dampen the strings with both hands and lower the harp, signaling your piece is finished.  Then to wild applause, walk to the front of your harp, put one hand on the column and slowly bow.  A fun thing for students to say (to themselves, of course) as you bow down - "Did I wear my shoes today?" and then on the way up - "Yes, I wore my shoes today!"  This makes the bow slower and more stately than a bob!  And don't forget to smile and now is the time to look at your audience!

The day is finally here!  Your appearance at the recital is important.  Fuller, longer skirts or dresses, or pants are appropriate attire - especially if you are on a stage.  How you wear your hair is important too.  The audience wants to see your face, so pin hair back on the left side, maybe with a pretty clip, especially if it is long.  Even long bangs which fall into your face and have to be brushed away can be distracting to those watching.

Try to focus on the beautiful music you are making and don't let your thoughts get distracted - "How does my hair look?", "Oh darn, I made a mistake, what will everyone think?",  "Oh my goodness, everyone is looking at me!"  If you make a mistake - and you probably will because everyone does from time to time - just keep going. Don't stop or go over that spot to make it right, just continue on as if that's what you meant to do.  Also, don't give it away with your facial expression or head shake.  Chances are, the audience won't even be aware you made a mistake!  They are too busy enjoying the beautiful music.  Don't beat yourself up!  Learn from any mistakes you made and just plan on doing better next time.


In the end - the preparation, dedication, practice and follow-through that you learned will help you in any endeavor you pursue in the future.  And, after all your hard work perfecting the piece, consider playing it at different venues afterwards - church, nursing homes, school talent shows, etc.

 

Celtic Concert

How do I find the perfect lever harp for me?

Eeny, meeny, miny, moe - which is the best harp!  Since I am frequently involved in helping students and friends buy or sell their harps; I want to share what I think is important in choosing THE one.  Finding the perfect harp for you can be a daunting process, especially if you are new to the harp world.  There are almost limitless variables to consider and since a good harp is a big investment, you want to be as informed as possible.  Initially, I always advise new students to rent for a few months, for a couple of reasons - first, to make sure that playing the harp is something you want to pursue; and second, to become better versed on what is the best harp for you.  After playing for just a little while, you will develop an ear, appreciate the sounds of different styles of harps and develop preferences.

Since most beginners will start on a lever harp, the focus here will be on smaller harps.  We will discuss additional features of pedal harps at a later date.

In making your selection, you first have to be able to answer the questions below.  Your teacher will be a big asset in helping you:

How many strings to I want on my harp? Folk harps range from 28 strings to 40.
Do I want full levers, none, or partial?
Is ease of moving the harp important to me?
Do I want new harp with a warranty and a higher price tag, or used "as is"?
What string spacing works most comfortably with my hand?
Do I like looser tension or tighter?
Is the size right for my height - is it comfortable to sit behind the harp?
Which type of harp back feels best resting on my shoulder - square (stave back) or round?
Is the harp strung in folk or pedal gauge strings?  Which feels best on my finger tips?
Is nylon the sound that I like or do I prefer the sound of gut strings?
Is the harp made by a reputable manufacturer?
How much am I willing to spend?
And lastly, what wood finish and overall look do I like?  Strictly a personal decision there.

If you are considering a used harp.  There are many places to look for a quality used instrument.  Again, help will be invaluable in this area from your teacher.  When purchasing used, here are some additional questions to ask the seller:
   Age of harp - serial number.  The age can be verified with the manufacturer.
   History of ownership - original owner?
   Has it been keep strung, regularly played?
   Where has it been housed?
   What accessories come with it?
   Any cracks and dings - are they structural or merely cosmetic which can be repaired?

   Be sure to play the harp and assess the sound and feel.  Then weigh the cost and quality of a
   used harp at a lower price with the comparable new harp with a warranty.

GOOD LUCK - and happy harping!

Oh, Give Me a Home -- SOLD

Looking for a quality lever harp?  Consider me:  I am a 36 string Salvi Livia, built in 1998 and have a walnut finish.  I've had 2 owners.  The serial number is #20768.  A new Livia sells for $4,250, so I am a bargain at $2300.   I come with a dust cover and a heavy duty fitted, padded transport cover with convenient wheels which is like new (sells for $340)!  My tuning key and a digital tuner are included.  Height, weight and all dimensions can be found on www.salviharpsinc.com

Notes from sales agent (aka - me):  This is a former student's harp 

who is no longer playing.  The harp is fully strung and holds its pitch and has a full, rich, sustained tone.  It is strung with folk nylon and has a full set of sharping levers.  There are some minor nicks and scrapes as any harp would pick up along the way.  There is also a nonstructural crack about 1" long off the side of the second sound hole from the bottom.  It does not affect the integrity or sound of the harp in any way.  An estimate to repair this is $200 by a good luthier or competent furniture repair person and that is reflected in the price.  Located in south Orange County, California.  Any shipping costs will be paid by the buyer.  Sold as is.

Call, text or email with any further questions.

Upcoming Harp Concert

The Orange County Harp Troupe is so excited to be presenting Kim Roberston!  She will be here in a little over a month.  No tickets needed, so come early to be assured of a seat.  Doors open at 6 pm.   Refreshments will be served after the concert and you will have a chance to browse Kim's books and CDs.  Look forward to seeing you there!

Pedal Harp - For Sale SOLD

I am helping sell the harp of a dear friend and former student who passed away suddenly.  It is a beautiful Salvi Diana, high gloss mahogany finish in pristine condition.  It was built and purchased in 2006 from the manufacturer.  She was the original - and only owner.  The harp was purchased for her own enjoyment and it was never used as a gigging harp.  It comes with the additional accessories of:  harp trolley, dust cover, three piece transport cover, collapsible padded bench, and folding music stand.  There is also a tuner, metronome, and tuning key.  If you are in the Southern California area, you are welcome to come by and play it.  Her family is asking $19,000.

Please pass the word to your harp friends.  I can be reached by email or phone [listed under Teaching Studio] for any additional questions.

Ensembles - You Mean I have to Count?

If you are fortunate enough to have a harp ensemble in your area, consider giving it a try.  Playing with others is a great way to learn new skills, gain experience, and challenge yourself; as well as make lasting friendships.

Our local Orange County Harp Troupe was formed several years ago.  It all started when a student new to the area wanted a join harp circle, since she had enjoyed one at her previous home.  I held a tea in my home and invited anyone locally who might be interested in forming a group to come.  It was after a local harp concert, so there was a large group of interested people to draw from.  Regular meetings began shortly thereafter.  We have had an amazing 15 years and are still growing strong.  We have played for churches, hospitals, nursing and retirement homes, veterans groups,  and Irish and Scottish fairs to name a few.  We have also had Christmas parties, end of the year pot lucks, sponsored workshops and concerts, and even took a cruise with a presenter!  The opportunities are only as limited as your groups collective imagination.

HELPFUL HINTS learned along the way:

Start by laying a good foundation for your meetings.  You will need to select a board – at least President, Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary to run the meetings and help determine the direction of the group – frequency of meetings, music, events to perform, etc.  There should be time either at the beginning or the end of each rehearsal for a general meeting for voting and discussion.  Ahead of time usually works well. This cuts down on chatter during your rehearsal and there is always time during refreshments afterwards to toss around ideas.

At the designated meeting start time, everyone should be setup, tuned, and ready to play.  Have a tuner that picks up the vibrations of your own harp only.  It takes some longer than others for setting up and they should plan accordingly.  Try to start on time and don’t wait for latecomers.  There will always be some!

During your meeting allow time after each piece for discussion - tempo, tough parts, repeats.  Remember to have a pencil handy to mark your music so your memory doesn't have to work overtime! Designate one person to count two bars at the beginning to start everyone off.  During rehearsals, a loud ticking metronome is helpful too, to keep the tempo even.

For performances, strive to look like a professional group.  Position yourselves in close proximity to each other, so you can see and hear each other.  If the venue allows, a semi-circle is best.  Learning to listen to others and playing together is a real skill!  Practice pulling your harps to your shoulders at the same time, as well as muffling at the end of each piece, and standing your harps back up in unison.  Also practice bowing - the audience will be clapping!   For a cohesive look at performances, wear coordinated colors; or try matching accessories, such as a scarf, to unify the look of your group.

If you are in the Orange County area, please join us - beginners welcome!  If there is no harp group in your area, consider starting one - your life will be enriched.

Upcoming OC Harp Troupe Events

We are looking forward to performing for the following two holiday events.  If you are interested in joining the harp troupe, please contact one of the people listed below in the flyer.

Golden Rules For Ensemble Playing

1. Everyone should play the same piece.
2. Stop at every repeat sign and discuss in detail whether to take the repeat or not. The audience will love this a lot!
3. If you play a wrong note, give a nasty look to one of your partners.
4. Keep your fingering chart handy. You can always catch up with the others.
5. Carefully tune your instrument before playing. That way you can play out of tune all night with a clear conscience.
6. Take your time turning pages.
7. The right note at the wrong time is a wrong note (and vice-versa).
8. If everyone gets lost except you, follow those who get lost.
9. Strive to get the maximum NPS (note per second). That way you gain the admiration of the incompetent.
10. Markings for slurs, dynamics and ornaments should not be observed. They are only there to embellish the score.
11. If a passage is difficult, slow down. If it's easy, speed it up. Everything will work itself out in the end.
12. If you are completely lost, stop everyone and say, "I think we should tune."
13. Happy are those who have not perfect pitch, for the kingdom of music is theirs.
14. If the ensemble has to stop because of you, explain in detail why you got lost. Everyone will be very interested.
15. A true interpretation is realized when there remains not one note of the original.
16. When everyone else has finished playing, you should not play any notes you have left.
17. A wrong note played timidly is a wrong note. A wrong note played with authority is an interpretation.

Meet My Harps

A former student who is now attending college with a full scholarship named all my harps.  She even found the perfect name my dog - Archi - which means a stringed instrument.  (Clever girl!)

HARMONY

Harmony is the grand dame of my studio. Her birthday is March 22, 1915 - so she is over 100 years old. My parents purchased her from my orchestra director's wife when I was in high school and she has been with me ever since. She is a Lyon and Healy, Style 22, which is a 46 string semi grand harp, with 22 carat gold leaf trim and tiger maple body. They are no longer manufactured. She is a couple of inches shorter, a little lighter and has one less string than a concert grand. For me she is the perfect size. A few years ago, she got a beauty makeover at the factory in Chicago, but all the mechanism and all the wood parts are original which is very unusual for a harp of her age. She just has good bones. Her tone is exquisite - large and warm. Love her!

LILAH

Lilah is also a semi-grand,with a beautiful custom hand painted soundboard and mahogany finish.  She was made by Salvi Harps Inc.  Her birth year was 2008 and I've had her ever since.  Although she is on a semi grand frame, she has the 47 strings like a concert grand.  This is the harp that is used by my students in the studio who play pedal harp at home, so she gets a lot of love and attention.  Salvi has come up with many innovative design changes over recent years. She has a wider soundboard in the upper registers, giving her a more balanced sound.   And Lilah has the unique honor of being autographed with a gold pen on the bottom of the base by Victor Salvi himself.

PABLO

Don't ask me how my student arrived at this name or decided Pablo was a boy!  He is a 36 string, fully levered harp. manufactured by Pratt Harps, Chamber Harp model.  Built in 2003, there are two unique features of this lever (or folk harp); the extended sound box which is usually only on larger pedal harps, and concert tension on the strings.  Both features give him a deep, full, rich sound.  This harp is used in my studio by all lever harp players.  He has a beautiful finish of Bubinga wood with a interesting twist on the veneer.  As explained by the luthier, instead of slicing through a log to make planks, the log is turned on a lath to peel off layers.  This gives the grain a beautiful and truly unique appearance.

ZEFFIROSO

In German, Zeffiroso means light and airy.  He is a 36 string lever harp, Legend model,  made by Heartland Harps.  "Zeff" was born in January, 2012.  He has a carbon fiber body which makes his total weight only 10 pounds.  Carbon fiber is the material used in expensive sports cars.  It is becoming more and more popular for instruments.  Heartland Harps are the first ones to come out with an innovative carbon fiber harp.   The black finish is the natural color.  It can be painted any color that you can paint a car, but it changes the tone.  Because there is no wood, it is impervious to water and heat making it safer to carry in a car.  Also because there is no wood, you have the added bonus of string pitch remaining very stable since there is no expanding and contracting of the wood with temperature changing.  The sound is amazingly large and projects well. This is the perfect gigging harp.

LIAM

Liam is a beautiful Celtic laddie.  There is intricately detailed and ornate Celtic markings running down the sides of the soundboard as well as the soundboard itself, and the sides and front of the column.  He is a 30 string Clark Irish Harp  and was made sometime in the early 1900's; so he has a dubious past.  These were the first "lever" harps manufactured in the United States and caused quite a stir which started the up surgence of all lever harps.  Before that, there were only pedal harps for students to start learning on.   He has ivory pegs to hold in the strings and blade levers which are archaic compared to today's levers.  Liam sits on a stand which has a lever in the back allowing the harp to tip back while the stand remains on the floor.  He can be placed on the floor and sits on little lion paws. When I was a girl, I played him occasionally in recitals and on St. Patrick's Day.  He is completely strung, but not played anymore.  His home is here for historical and sentimental reasons.

BABY BELLA

Baby Bella is a 22 string lap harp make by Breton.  Her birth year was 2004 but she will never grow up, I'm afraid!  She is fully levered and easy to play either using knee bones across the tops of your knees (hence the name), or held between your knees with your ankles crossed (a little harder!)  This is the perfect size harp for traveling, conferences, and workshops.  Just like a baby, she can't stand up by herself, so I adapted a guitar stand to hold her when she is not in use.

Harp Concert/Workshop - Alfredo Ortiz

Update:  Events postponed until November 21 and 22, 2015!

We are fortunate to have living in our area the world renown Paraguayan harpist, Alfredo Orlando Ortiz.  I have seen him in concert on several occasions, and you won't want to miss this event!  If you would like to learn more about his many accomplishments and his very interesting personal history, go to - Aroy Music - Alfredo Rolando Ortiz.

http://www.aroymusic.com/Alfredo_Rolando_Ortiz_PARAGUAYAN_HARP_ARPA_PARAGUAYA.html

Adult Harp Gathering ~ October 3, 2015

Here is another wonderful educational experience offered by Alison Bjorkedal and free to all AHS-LA members.  Playing with a group is rewarding, challenging and fun.  We will be talking more about ensemble playing in the future!

Care and Feeding of your Harp

Whether you are renting or own your harp(s), you will want to take the best care possible of them.  A harp - large or small - is a big investment. You want it to last a long time.

PLACEMENT  Never place your harp in a window which has direct sunlight.  Sunlight will dry out your strings, as well as damage the wood by drying out the natural oils and bleaching the wood.  An interior wall may be best, but an exterior wall even with a window is okay if the direct sunlight never streams in.  Be mindful of where your heating and A/C ducts are and try to keep your harp out of the direct line of fire.  Be sure to keep your harp, especially smaller ones, are out of traffic areas in your home - away from dogs, kids and adults too!  If your harp is on a rug and the padding is thick, it may be a little tippy.  One solution, is to make a small wooden platform to place your harp on to make it more secure.

CLEANING  Frequent dusting is important to prevent build up.  A feather duster works beautifully for me, except in the area of lever or tuning discs and crevices.  Here is where a soft bristled paint brush comes in handy.  It can clean out and dust all those small grooves.  Never use furniture polish, cleaning products or oil on the wood of any kind.  Always check with your harp manufacturer for what is appropriate to put on your harp's finish.  The finish may interact negatively.   If your harp has gold leaf, be careful to not touch it with your hands.  Over time, it will tarnish the finish.

HANDS   Wash your hands before playing.  Don't eat a greasy chicken leg and then sit down to play your harp!  The same applies to hand lotion.  Everything will transfer to the strings.  From a practical standpoint, wait awhile to play after having your hands in water for any extended period of time.  The skin on your fingers soften and that can make paying painful.  More about the position of your hands later.  :)

JEWELRY  Also be mindful of the jewelry you are wearing.  A watchband on your wrist can hit the soundboard especially when you left hand moves up to play the upper registers.  You may not even realize that is happening, but over time can damage the finish.  Make sure there are no sequins, rhinestones, studs or buttons to scratch the finish.  Even your belt buckle can scratch if you are standing close while tuning.  Any jewelry can be a problem - dangling earrings, bracelets, pins, watches, necklaces, etc.

HUMIDITY  Humidity is as important as temperature in making sure your harp is happy.  A good rule of thumb is - if you are comfortable, your harp will be comfortable too.  The ideal humidity level is between 40% and 60%.  If you are concerned about the humidity in your home, you can purchase a relatively inexpensive hygrometer to measure moisture content.  If you live in Arizona where it is very dry or Florida, where it is very damp, you might do well to check the humidity levels.  There are humidifiers and dehumidifiers to fix the problem.  Also, if you are on the east coast and your house is overheated in wintertime, that can dry out the wood on your harp.

Tuning, strings, transporting, and regulations will be discussed at a later date.