Have you ever wondered how a master teacher inspires, guides, and transforms students’ lives? Now you can get a glimpse into a lesson with a world renowned harpist as you listen to participants perform solo pieces and learn from Noël’s comments that follow in this open lesson format. Be sure to bring your notebook so that you’re ready when inspiration strikes!
All levels welcome, harp not required.
If you’re currently preparing for a competition or have a student who is navigating the competition waters, this is an invaluable opportunity! Join the 2022 USA International Harp Competition’s Gold Medalist, Dr. Noël Wan, who will be discussing everything you need to know--from the first day of picking up the music to that exhilarating moment on the competition stage. Learn how to prepare repertoire, create achievable practice goals, record standout pre-screening videos, and hear Dr. Wan's experiences handling competition nerves and cultivating a dynamic stage presence.
All levels welcome, harp not required.
There may be no higher calling than when we are asked to play, or volunteer to play, for a religious service in a sacred setting. Whether you’re preparing for your first worship service or are an experienced church harpist looking for new ideas, this workshop is just for you! We will take a look at the practical side of playing in a religious setting, including a survey of major denominations and worship styles. The Liturgical Calendar will be explored, and we will see why “Salve Regina” will be a big hit at the local Catholic Church, but bomb at First Baptist! Practical guides to repertoire, compensation, weddings, funerals and other aspects of playing in a sacred setting will be covered.
All levels welcome, harp not required.
Join Julie in a great harp adventure and experience firsthand
the various harp models offered by VHC’s manufacturers. Learn what makes each harp
unique and maybe meet your new best friend!
All levels welcome, harp not required.
A “whole-istic” approach to increasing your musical, mental and technical prowess.
By taking a progressive approach, from mental preparation, to “technique tuneups” to decreasing performance anxiety, these 2 workshops will look at the “whole picture” of making you a better musician and harpist overall. Part 2 is a continuation of Part 1, but it is not necessary to have attended Part 1 to benefit from Part 2. This section will focus more on mental preparation, how to really learn a piece through “embodying” it, memorization, and actually enjoying performing in front of others! We will also touch on practical matters such as tuning, arranging and repertoire selection.
All levels welcome, harps required.
A “whole-istic” approach to increasing your musical, mental and technical prowess.
By taking a progressive approach, from mental preparation, to “technique tuneups” to decreasing performance anxiety, these 2 workshops will look at the “whole picture” of making you a better musician and harpist overall. The session will be very interactive, and all participants will be encouraged to play individually during the course of the workshops. Part 1 will cover effective warmups, breathing and relaxation, and technical matters. There will be time for individual attention and ample opportunity for Q & A.
All levels welcome, harps required.
“Excellence is not an art. It is the habit of practice.” - Aristotle
When you practice does it sometimes feel like you’re running on a hamster wheel? Putting all your energy and focus into one piece and never seeing any improvements? In this class you’ll be learning mindful ways to approach your practice session that will help you achieve all your harp goals! Dr. Wan will explore the relationship between efficient time management and effective practicing, ways of keeping yourself accountable to your progress, the importance of balancing mental health and musical goals, and most importantly, good practice habits that minimize physical injury.
All levels welcome, harp not required.
Come join the fun of playing with other harpists and making music together. We will prepare Kingsfold by Rhett Barnwell and A Virginia Sampler by Ray Pool with coaching from VHC Festival guest artists. Everyone is welcome to participate. Find a part that is comfortable for you and play what you can. We will perform our prepared pieces on the final concert Sunday afternoon.
• Plan to attend both ensemble rehearsals (Sat. 4pm / Sun. 1pm)
• You must provide your own harp, bench and stand. There will be a storage
area available between rehearsals and concert.
• Harp ensemble participants must be registered for the festival by February 1st.
• Harp ensemble repertoire can be purchased by clicking on the links below.
Kingsfold……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..Rhett Barnwell
A Virginia Sampler……………………………………………………………………………………………………….Ray Pool
Wind Harp……………………………………………………………………………………………………Stephen Dunstone
All levels welcome, harps required.
Do you have recurring nightmares about getting handed a lead sheet moments before a gig begins? “Where are the notes?'“ you ask and they just laugh and start counting off! Let Brandee help calm your fears by explaining the basics of chord symbols and how to navigate the scary lead sheet waters. Be prepared to enjoy the freedom and creativity that lead sheets have to offer.
All levels welcome, harps required.
In a musical landscape of the 1950s where few women were able to make a mark and the harp wasn’t considered a jazz instrument, Dorothy Ashby blazed a trail as both a female musician and jazz harpist! Join Brandee and learn about Dorothy’s amazing journey, inspiring career, and lasting legacy.
All levels welcome, harp not required.
This class is for anyone who gets a knot in their stomach just thinking about what would
happen if a string broke! Let our resident string expert Amy teach you how to change a string with confidence. She’ll help you master the knot, secure the string to the tuning pin, and give tips on changing wire strings.
All levels welcome, harp not required.
Curious about Camac harps? Join their Principal International Technician, Liza Jensen, as she takes you on an educational journey through Camac's history and innovation.
All levels welcome, harp not required.