Join Derwent Harp School Musical Director Helen-Elizabeth  and our harp makers Paul and  Rhys and students from our harp school  from 10 till 1 on Saturday 10th August 2024  for our Discover the Harp course  at Ucheldre Centre, Millbank, Holyhead, Isle of Anglesey, LL65 1TE.

Helen-Elizabeth has 21 years of teaching experience holding a BA Hons, DipABRSM and CTABRSM qualifications. Former students have gone on to all the major conservatories and on to Oxford and Cambridge to study music. Derwent Harp School students have also had considerable success on the Eisteddfod circuit over the years. She herself studied with the world famous professor of harp David Watkins.

This course is a complete introduction to playing the harp for beginners including your own personalised Discovery 16 Harp, Tuning Key and Course Book to take home and keep. No prior musical experience needed. Tea, coffee and snacks available to purchase. With this date only is the opportunity to watch    

The course is suitable for ages 16 + - under 16s with musical experience also welcome but MUST be accompanied by an adult for the whole session.

By the end of the morning  you will be surprised at how many tunes you will able to play. We will learn simple rounds, popular folk tunes and even some popular classics, including  All Though The Night, Chaconne, Pwt Ar Y Bys and many more. You will have all the skills to take your International School of Musicians Step 1 Harp Exam should you choose to.

We will also introduce you to the wonderful stories and history surrounding the harp in Wales.

Numbers strictly limited.

Booking will close for this course on 8/07/24  in order for us to build the harps  in time for the big day. Numbers are restricted so early booking is essential.

Students who took this course last summer have already gone on to achieve Distinction at grade 1 with International School of Musicians using their discovery 16 Harps.

You can use your Discovery 16 Harp for Step 1 and 2 plus grades 1,2,3,4,5 and 6 with the International School of Musicians exam board, exams to grade 8 and diploma to follow later this year.

One student started with a Discover The Harp Course in 2021 and went on to be part of the winning year 6 and under ensemble at 2022 Urdd Eisteddfod.

This year 2 of our students who started with a Discover The Harp Course are through to the harp solo final year 6 and under in the Urdd Eisteddfod.

https://youtu.be/1zeL_YLf5KE

 “I loved learning to play the harp on Saturday , such a great course, excellent value for money , lovely surroundings. Love my harp ! Learnt enough to play simple duets with my daughter the next day . Looking forward to more opportunities to attend again in the future . Thank you “

“Hi Helen,

I really enjoyed the class yesterday. You were so welcoming. I will need lots of practice,but your inclusive and interesting way of teaching has convinced me I will eventually be able to play well.

Hearing you and Rhys play and sing All Through the Night was beautiful.I wasn’t my usual chirpy self because I’m off to hospital for a procedure tomorrow. However, the morning with you really raised my spirits.

I’m delighted with my harp and look forward to many pleasant hours with it. I especially loved the squirrels on it.

We both enjoyed our time in Wales.

Thanks again.

Kind regards
Kerrie.🐿”

“I had an amazing time - thank you.Can't believe how much you can pick up in 1st lesson.Love my harp”

Lynda  

please be aware that these courses are suitable for complete beginners to harp and music.

drinks and snacks will be available to purchase in the cafe at break time.