Basket: £0.00
Basket: £0.00
DEBORAH HENSON-CONANT This is the long-anticipated and very welcome return to the festival of Deborah "DHC" Henson-Conant, a US-based Grammy-nominated composer/performer. With electric harp, voice and looper pedal, she layers sounds in real time, weaving solo lines, vocals and stories. Her signature instrument, a carbon-fibre electric harp, was designed for her by Camac Harps, and named after her: the "DHC". Her music ranges from intimate ballads to Blues, Flamenco and Latin inspired compositions, all with a powerful singing voice, humour and stories. CAROLINE LIZOTTE & ÉTIENNE RATTHÉ This concert will feature several magical compositions by the award-winning Quebec harpist, Caroline Lizotte. She will play her beautiful piece, Close for Couloir, which also features Etienne on cello. While on tour here with the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal in 2011, Caroline was inspired by the beauty of Edinburgh and the history of Scotland to write this piece. Her dream of performing it in its source of inspiration will come true in this concert. She will also play her Kheírōn op. 53 nocturne, Odyssée op. 37, and Suite Galactique op.39. At the 15th World Harp Congress, she will be awarded the Ann Stockton Memorial Award for New Music for her important contribution to the harp repertoire. Sponsored by Camac Harps and Edinburgh Branch of the Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
The EIHF junior ensemble, consisting of young harpers from around the country, will perform a magical suite of newly created music based upon the traditional tale of The Giant and The Swan. The story will be told alongside the music by storyteller Daniel Serridge and the concert will feature a performance from Mòd prizewinners Hazel Brandt and Katie Heron. Join us for this enchanting performance that takes you deep into the woods to a world of transformation. Click HERE for info on how to join the EIHF junior ensemble. Sponsored by The Royal Celtic Society and An Comunn Gàidhealach
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
REBECCA HILL & CHARLIE STEWART Originally from Argyllshire and Perthshire, Rebecca and Charlie are a dynamic harp and fiddle duo, now based in Glasgow, whose music draws on the heritage of their individual backgrounds. As well as showcasing new material and contemporary compositional techniques, they will include a mixture of arrangements from their debut album ‘Thawcrook’, recorded in 2022, which projected them into the finals of the 'Composer of the Year' category in the MG Alba Scots Trad Music Awards 2023. "'Thawcrook' is an outstanding achievement of musicality, ingenuity and passion" - Duncan Chisholm MÀIRI CALLAN Gold medallist for Gaelic singing at the Royal National Mòd in 2021, Màiri’s programme will include traditional and new Gaelic songs with her own clàrsach accompaniments. Mairi was brought up in North Lanarkshire but has family roots in North Uist and has been steeped in Gaelic culture from a young age. THE IAIN MACLEÒID YOUNG COMPOSER 2024 The winning piece of The Clarsach Society’s Iain Macleòid Young Composer Award will be performed, and the composer will receive the award. Sponsored by The Isle of Lewis Branch of the Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
TARAB TRIO The Tarab Trio comprises Azad Shawaysi (Iran) on santur and Persian dulcimer, Saher Issa (Iraq) on saz, Anatolian lute and voice, and Tom Daun (Germany) on harp. Their music will follow the route along which Azad and Saher went to Germany: Kurdish songs of love, sorrow and the struggle for freedom, melodies from the shores of the Aegean Sea and music of the Ottoman tradition. They will perform delicate tunes for the sultan’s favourite dancers, ballads about bloody battles, lively village songs and fast dance music. "A harmonious blend of one hundred strings" SÉAMUS & CAOIMHE UÍ FHATHARTA Irish siblings, Séamus on harp and Caoimhe on fiddle, are from the Gaeltacht region of Connemara. They are also noted for their beautiful sean-nós (old-style) singing and unique arrangements of both Irish and English language songs, keeping the Irish language and their heritage at the very heart of all their musical endeavours. Séamus has performed at prestigious festivals across the globe alongside the finest Irish musicians, and he and Caoimhe are the recipients of the RTÉ Folk Award for ‘Best Emerging Artists’ 2024. Sponsored by UK Harp Association and Consulate General of Ireland in Edinburgh
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
The Willow Trio is an innovative Glasgow-based clàrsach trio consisting of Maya MacAdam, Sophie Rocks and Romy Wymer. This performance features their film, Eala Shàilein (The Swan of Salen) with brand-new choreography by Deborah Norris, projected behind the three harpists performing a live-synced score. It is an adaptation of Tchaikovsky’s iconic Swan Lake, retold through the lens of the Gaelic tale Eala Shàilein, blending traditional music from the Loch Sunart area with the classical score. Sponsored by the Glasgow branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
TĀLA TARANG Tāla Tarang, meaning “rhythm waves”, is the musical union of Indian tabla and western harp, with Mendi Singh’s powerful tabla grooves and Eleanor Turner’s hypnotic harp playing weaving a rich tapestry of sounds. Eleanor and Mendi received worldwide acclaim in their own right before sparking a new and beautiful sonic adventure when they met in 2014 and formed Tāla Tarang. Taking inspiration from nature and faith, Eleanor and Mendi relish the opportunity to perform together around the world, telling their stories through their East-meets-West compositions and electrifying improvisations that will leave you breathless. KEVIN LE PENNEC Kevin Le Pennec from Brittany will present his own beautiful songs sung in French and compositions inspired by Breton repertoire, set to an intricate mesh of heady rhythms and pop and jazz colours. Winner of the Trophée Camac in 2019 and the World Harp Competition in 2024, his modern, dynamic harp-playing blends with his clear, powerful voice. Sponsored by David and Brenda Lamb and Pilgrim Harps
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
The clarsach has been referred to as Craobh Nan Teud, The Tree of Strings. Isobel Mieras, Rachel Hair and Rosemary McKerchar are delighted to present a forest of strings as students, performers, teachers and organisers of the festival join with ensembles from five branches of The Clarsach Society and The Music Generation Laois Harp Ensemble from Ireland for a musical celebration of spring. The enchanting sound and sight of several hundred strings singing together in this Host of Harps symbolises the spirit of friendship and fun for which our festival is known. Find out how to register to perform in Host of Harps at harpfestival.co.uk/HostOfHarps
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
Alison Kinnaird has been involved in the resurgence of the Scottish harp since the 1960s and has built an international reputation as a performer and teacher. She will play tunes and songs which are linked with significant people and events throughout her life and will be joined by some friends for a few good tunes at the end! Sponsored by Jack Hayward Insurance
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
CORRINA HEWAT AND DAVID MILLIGAN Corrina is one of Scotland’s best loved harpists. She is known in the traditional music world for her work with Shine and Karine Polwart as well as with choirs and her solo work. Pianist, improvisor, composer and arranger, Dave Milligan is a musician of remarkable versatility, known for his work in the worlds of both jazz and folk. Together they will perform a selection of songs and music spanning the 30 years of their professional lives together, plus some new material they have created especially for the EIHF. Some very special guests will bring the festival to a heart-warming close. Sponsored by the London and South East branch of the Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
Access to all concerts* at EIHF 2025 Experience an ear-tingling array of top-class harp music for one, simple price. Full price - £115Concession - £100Under 18s - £60 Line-up to include: Caroline Lizotte & Étienne Ratthé / Deborah Henson-Conant / Séamus & Caoimhe Uí Fhlatharta / Alison Kinnaird / The Willow Trio / Corrina Hewat & Dave Milligan / Tarab Trio / Rebecca Hill & Charlie Stewart / Kevin Le Pennec / Màiri Callan / Tāla Tarang / EIHF Host of Harps *Does not include the Ceilidh [D01] Available for a limited time only, so book without delay!
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Pass
BELLA MCNAB'SThe band will host another EIHF fun evening of ceilidh favourites and less familiar dances, guided by caller Dave Francis, from their wide repertoire. There will also be, in true ceilidh style, impromptu performances from the festival.
George Watson's College Concerts
The Gathering Space
CHILD BEGINNERS 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 09.00-10.00 TUTOR: Elinor Evans LEVEL: Beginner TEACHING METHOD: E+M: Teaching will initially be by ear with written music given out during the session. Have you ever wanted to learn the clarsach? Then come along to this course! Learn the basics of the harp through games and stories. You'll have great fun, play all sorts of music, make new friends and learn more about the most awesome instrument there is! Harps provided. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
ADULT BEGINNERS 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 TUTOR: Heather Yule LEVEL: Beginner TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching initially by ear with written music given out during the session. A perfect opportunity to try this beautiful instrument in a relaxed and supportive setting. Through simple tunes and exercises this class will introduce the first steps in learning to play the harp. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
POST BEGINNERS 4 DAY COURSE: Sat/Sun/Mon/Tue 09.00-10.30TUTOR: Toni RussellTEACHING METHOD - E+M: Teaching will initially be by ear with written music given out during the session. The perfect choice for those who have previously taken a beginners course or do not have regular lessons. Toni will help you take the next steps in your playing, concentrating on developing new techniques and learning new pieces whilst recapping on your previous knowledge and building your confidence. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
PRIMARY AGE HARP 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 TUTOR: Eleanor Hetherington LEVEL: Elementary TEACHING METHOD: E+M Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Come along and learn some fun tunes, improve your technique, build your confidence and make some new harp friends! This course is for children of primary school age (up to approximately age 11). For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
SCOTTISH AIRS 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 TUTOR: Elinor Evans LEVEL: Elementary TEACHING METHOD: E+M Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Who doesn’t love a slow air? Whatever your ability, making the harp sing while playing gentle contemplative music is a real pleasure. During this course, Elinor will teach arrangements of airs from around Scotland. With the clarsach often “borrowing” music written for other instruments, she’ll show you it can work for harps too! For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
MELLOW SCOTTISH TUNES 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 - ON ZOOM TUTOR: Cheyenne Brown LEVEL: Elementary TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. THIS COURSE IS ON ZOOM. Your zoom code and music will be sent out on Friday 11th April, 2025. Join us online to learn a combination of modern and traditional Scottish tunes. With catchy but gentle melodies and accessible arrangements, all will be taught at a manageable pace. The tunes will be specially chosen with memorable phrases and handy fingering. We’ll do lots of repetitions of each phrase and concentrate on finger patterns and placing to help secure the tunes into your muscle memory. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
SUPER SCOTTISH 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 09.00-10.30 TUTOR: Wendy Stewart LEVEL: Elementary/Intermediate TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. A rich mix of the tradition – from ancient to contemporary, slow Gaelic air to lilting pipe march – all arranged to suit a slower pace of assimilation into fingers and brain! Wendy will build up the musical layers gradually so that you can find your happy place in the class but still have aspirational levels explained on which to work throughout the year. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
FUNDAMENTAL TECHNIQUE 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 TUTOR: Eleanor Hetherington LEVEL: Elementary/Intermediate TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Expand your harp repertoire whilst focusing on some fundamentals of harp technique. Learn new and perhaps familiar tunes with time given to helping improve hand position, finger placement and sound production. Eleanor will help build your confidence whilst getting the most enjoyment from your harp. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
THE ART OF PLAYING THERAPEUTIC HARP 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 TUTOR: Sunita Staneslow LEVEL: Elementary/Intermediate TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. This course will focus on the art of playing the harp as the experienced Sunita will teach you how to create phrases that breathe, play with a beautiful tone, work with the ringing strings whilst laying a blanket of comforting sound. These are all important skills needed to enhance your musicality so come and learn to observe, react and cast a spell… For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
ARRANGING TUNES THROUGH THEIR STORIES 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 - ON ZOOM TUTOR: Heather Yule LEVEL: Elementary/Intermediate TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. THIS COURSE IS ON ZOOM. Your zoom code will be sent out on Friday 11th April. Music will be sent as needed. In this class you will learn some great tunes that have intriguing traditional stories attached to them. Often these tunes can be found with more than one version. We will look at methods to search out these variations through online and published resources, and then we can take all these elements and use them to inspire creative ideas to devise an arrangement that reflects the drama and atmosphere of the story. This will be a fun and interesting adventure accessible even to those with very little, or no, experience of arranging for the harp. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
WEST IS BEST: MELODIES FROM ARGYLL 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 TUTOR: Rebecca Hill LEVEL: Intermediate TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Come and learn the melodies and stories from around Argyll and the West Coast of Scotland, the area where Rebecca grew up surrounded by Gaelic music and language. With tunes from local collectors and composers, including some collected by Kilmore’s Rev. Patrick MacDonald in the 1700s, she will help you investigate the rhythmic and melodic characteristics of the west coast style and experiment with voicing these textures on the harp. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
BRETON DANCES 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 09.00-10.30 TUTOR: Kevin Le Pennec LEVEL: Intermediate TEACHING METHOD: E - Teaching will be by ear. Music will be given out at the end of the final class. Delve into the delightful dance music of Brittany. Kevin will use song and dance to help to teach the rhythms and melodies of Breton dance tunes on the harp. With groovy arrangements and improvisation, Kevin’s friendly and supportive style of teaching will soon have you mastering the musical phrasing and variations, ever important in this style of Celtic music. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
BAROQUE BOURRÉES AND RIOTOUS REELS 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 TUTOR: Tom Daun LEVEL: Intermediate TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Rustic dance tunes of the 18th century villages and rural areas. All over Europe amateur musicians wrote down their favourite melodies and many of them sound wonderful on harp. So come and join Tom as he looks into these sources and teaches some of his favourite Danish, French and German dance tunes. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
SCOTTISH 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 - ON ZOOM TUTOR: Gillian Fleetwood LEVEL: Intermediate TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. THIS COURSE IS ON ZOOM. Your zoom code and music will be sent out on Friday 11th April 2025. A mid-paced course celebrating the richness of the Scottish tradition, delving into the geography and peculiarities of various corners of Scotland, both ancient and modern. There is much fun to be had in learning the connections within Scotland, its history, language and the music that these elements have combined to create. Understanding these elements will help your playing to sparkle and shine like sunshine on a loch in summertime. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
CELTIC COACH TRIP 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 TUTOR: Rachel Hair LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. It’s time to pack your bag, get your harp and go on a celtic coach trip! Your tour guide Rachel will take you on a musical journey around the Celtic countries most easily accessed with a harp (flight cases not required!). We’ll be in Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, and we may even take a ferry to an a-MAN-zing 4th location. We’ll learn a tune a day from each of our stops, working first on melody before adding in left hand, all whilst learning how that tune fits into its country’s culture. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
CELTIC COACH TRIP ONLINE 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 - ON ZOOM TUTOR: Rachel Hair LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. THIS COURSE IS ON ZOOM. Your zoom code and music will be sent out on Friday 11th April 2025. It’s time to pack your bag, get your harp and go on a celtic coach trip! Your tour guide Rachel will take you on a musical journey around the Celtic countries most easily accessed with a harp (flight cases not required!). We’ll be in Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, and we may even take a ferry to an a-MAN-zing 4th location. We’ll learn a tune a day from each of our stops, working first on melody before adding in left hand, all whilst learning how that tune fits into its country’s culture. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
RAGAS TO RICHES 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 09.00-10.30 TUTOR: Eleanor Turner and Mendi Singh LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Bring spicy energy to ALL of your harp playing! It is unimaginably good fun to play harp with the tabla (paired Indian drum), so come and get in the groove and learn some ‘Indian spice’ for the uninitiated. We’ll learn a tune a day from different parts of India, encompassing the country’s different languages and cultures, all whilst enjoying the satisfaction of being ‘in the pocket’ with the gorgeous sound of the tabla. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
EDINBURGH’S TUNES 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 09.00-10.30 TUTOR: Karen Marshalsay LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Music publishing flourished in Edinburgh in the late 18th and 19th centuries, and this course will look at tunes from this period with a close Edinburgh connection, often reflected in the titles. There are some gems of tunes tucked away in these collections that sound good on the harp, although often originally published for fiddle, piano, harpsichord or flute. We will look at how to play them on harp, with subtly shifting voicings and ornamentation in traditional style. For all harps that can change key quickly (levers or pedals advised). For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
PUNCHY ACCOMPANIMENT SKILLS 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 09.00-10.30 TUTOR: Rebecca Hill LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Accompanying fiddle, bagpipes or another harp, is great fun. It allows freedom to experiment with expressive harmonies and rich basslines, as well as an opportunity to showcase a percussive and rhythmic drive well-suited to the harp. In this course we will look at flowing chord sequences and the importance of responding to the shape of the melody alongside techniques and punchy rhythmic patterns that can be used for jigs and reels. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
INSIDE BAROQUE FLAMENCO 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 TUTOR: Deborah Henson-Conant LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Deborah Henson-Conant's "Baroque Flamenco" combines a classical rondo with rhythmic improvisation, fiery strumming techniques, billowing arpeggios and percussive punctuation in a harp show-stopper that pits the powerful 'Mexican Triple Waltz" rhythm against a Classical minuet. This iconic piece can look daunting on the page - but instead of learning note-by-note from the sheet music, in this class, the composer breaks it down for you, so you can build a version that plays to your strengths and passions. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
PEDAL HARP: EXTENDED TECHNIQUES 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 TUTOR: Caroline Lizotte LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: M+E - Teaching will be by written music as well as by ear. A unique opportunity to work alongside pedal harpist and composer, Caroline, in an immersive exploration of innovative extended techniques in solo, chamber, and orchestral harp music. Participants will examine an extensive range of accessories for these techniques, also used in Caroline’s own works, as they engage with and explore the different concepts of writing for harp, enhancing their creative toolkit in the process. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
MUSIC FROM BULGARIA 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 TUTOR: Tsvetelina Likova LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: M+E - Teaching will be by written music as well as by ear. Have you ever wondered how traditional Bulgarian music sounds on the harp? Well, come and give it a go. Tsvetelina teaches both traditional and modern melodies inspired by the music of her homeland. Bulgarian music is peppered with irregular rhythms, dissonant harmonies, and bright colours. Remember Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares? Learn new sounds and traditional Bulgarian ornamentation whilst enjoying an insight into Bulgarian culture. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
BLUES FOR HARP 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 09.00-10.30 TUTOR: Deborah Henson-Conant LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E+M: Teaching will initially be by ear with written music given out during the session. Learning the Blues teaches you more about patterns, improvisation and spontaneous ensemble playing than any other form of music. Blues can be upbeat, slow or simple, but the best part of Blues is that it’s a great type of music to play in mixed ability settings. You’ll learn how to quickly find a Blues scale in different keys, how to play crunches and how to bend notes. You will also learn to swing the rhythm, and to create melodic, accompaniment and bassline patterns and learn a simplified version of DHC's popular "New Blues" on which you can improvise, so the next time someone says “Wanna Jam?” you can say – “Let’s Play the Blues!”. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
SPICE UP YOUR LIFE 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 TUTOR: Eleanor Turner and Mendi Singh LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E+M: Teaching will initially be by ear with written music given out during the session. Enjoy the beauty of Indian music whilst collaborating with a percussionist. Mendi and Ellie will introduce you to the time cycles Teen Taal, Taal Dadra, Taal Kaharva and Rupak Taal, which will help you to shape some simple compositions. The Five Jatis (South Indian polyrhythmic system) will enrich the rhythmic elements of your playing and we will focus on using the key concepts of Indian music – Raga, Taal, Kayda, Pulta and Tihai – to bring structure and clarity to your ideas. Ellie will provide written materials but this course is also perfect for those who love working by ear and are keen to improvise and create vibrant interactions. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
READY, SET, SESSION! 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 TUTOR: Neil Wood LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E+M: Teaching will initially be by ear with written music given out during the session. Have you ever wanted to play in a traditional music session, or taken your harp to a session and felt lost? Unlock the joy of playing your harp in a session with this course which will cover all aspects of session-playing including session etiquette, finding the key, dual-handed accompaniment, accompanying tunes you don’t know and leading a set. After class, participants can try out their new skills in EIHF evening and slow lunchtime sessions. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
ORIENTAL HARP: MIDDLE EASTERN MUSIC 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 09.00-10.30 TUTOR: Tarab Trio LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E+M: Teaching will initially be by ear with written music given out during the session. Paintings and poems show that harps were in use in Arab and Ottoman music until the end of the 17th century. In this course we will bring them back as we learn some catchy tunes from the Middle East. From Anatolia to the shores of Aegean Sea, join us and take the chance to play your harp along with the sound of the Persian santur (hammered dulcimer) and the Kurdish saz (long-necked lute), a hundred strings interweaving and creating a magic soundscape.Paintings and poems show that harps were in use in Arab and Ottoman music until the end of the 17th century. In this course we will bring them back as we learn some catchy tunes from the Middle East. From Anatolia to the shores of Aegean Sea, join us and take the chance to play your harp along with the sound of the Persian santur (hammered dulcimer) and the Kurdish saz (long-necked lute), a hundred strings interweaving and creating a magic soundscape. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
HARPS IN PARTS 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 TUTOR: Wendy Stewart LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E+M: Teaching will initially be by ear with written music given out during the session. Not a meeting for broken harps, but melodies, counter melodies, funky bass lines, flowing chords and delicate riffs, all to be enjoyed in a group and equally adaptable for solo, duo or trio playing. Wendy will bring a mix of traditional and newer pieces with lines suitable for any level to try out as part of a bigger sound. The course will also give suggested arrangements that work for the solo harper, small group and big band! For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
ACCOMPANYING SONG 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 TUTOR: Kevin Le Pennec LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E - Teaching will be by ear. Music will be given out at the end of the final class. This course offers the chance to explore different techniques for accompanying songs. Kevin, an experienced singer and accompanist, will teach two-hand coordination, rhythmic techniques, how to create melodic and rhythmic loops whilst accompanying others and also how to integrate singing into your own self-accompaniment. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
TUNES FROM SOUTH UIST AND BARRA FOR WIRE HARP 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 TUTOR: Karen Marshalsay LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E+M Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Featuring a mix of lullabies, waulking songs and other tunes from the Gaelic traditions of South Uist and Barra, this wire harp course will look at how to play them on wire strings, with fingering and damping considerations, and advice on adding ornamentation and bass notes to further enhance and support the tunes. Karen will teach and explain the techniques she uses in her playing of the tunes, including coupled hands, fingering gestures from Ap Huw and Bunting, and others such as ‘gurglies’, cuts and traditional grace notes. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
SCOTTISH HARP TUNES OLD AND NEW THIS COURSE IS DELIVERED OVER FOUR SESSIONS: Sat 9.00am - 10.30am | Sat 1.00pm - 2.30pm Sun 9.00am - 10.30am | Sun 1.00pm - 2.30pm TUTOR: Alison Kinnaird LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching will be by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Join tradition bearer, Alison, as she teaches both traditional tunes that were composed for the harp and others that suit the instrument wonderfully well. Melody will be the focus of the course, allowing attendees the option of feeling secure on the tune, or the chance to take it further as we discuss the possibilities of harmony, decoration and variation. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
IRISH HARP THIS COURSE IS DELIVERED OVER FOUR SESSIONS: Sat 9.00am - 10.30am | Sat 1.00pm - 2.30pm Sun 9.00am - 10.30am | Sun 1.00pm - 2.30pm TUTOR: Séamus Ó Flatharta LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching will be by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Led by multi-instrumentalist and award-winning Irish harpist Séamus Ó Flatharta, this course will allow participants to expand their repertoire of Irish music, develop technique and explore the history of the Irish Harp. You will become acquainted with some of Ireland’s most renowned harping figures including Turlough O’Carolan and the Connellan Brothers, acquire some common dance tunes from the West of Ireland and explore the extremely unique repertoire of sean-nós songs and airs. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
IRISH TRADITIONAL FIDDLE THIS COURSE IS DELIVERED OVER FOUR SESSIONS: Sat 9.00am - 10.30am | Sat 1.00pm - 2.30pm Sun 9.00am - 10.30am | Sun 1.00pm - 2.30pm TUTOR: Caoimhe Ní Fhlatharta LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching will be by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Led by Caoimhe Ní Fhlatharta who recently graduated with a degree in Irish Music from the Irish World Academy at the University of Limerick. This course will be focused on expanding repertoire, developing technique and discovering personal style. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY WIRE-STRUNG HARP TIME: Saturday 09.00 - 10.30 TUTOR: Bill Taylor LEVEL: Come & Try An opportunity to try out the beautifully resonant wire-strung Highland clarsach. The technique we use is often called playing “in the stopped style”, where the finger pads damp certain strings to stop excessive ringing, and allow us to hear a clear line for the melody, the decoration, or both. Play a few simple tunes and touch on its history. A limited number of wire-strung clarsachs are available. Long nails are not needed! For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY WIRE-STRUNG HARP TIME: Sunday 16.30 - 18.00 TUTOR: Bill Taylor LEVEL: Come & Try An opportunity to try out the beautifully resonant wire-strung Highland clarsach. The technique we use is often called playing “in the stopped style”, where the finger pads damp certain strings to stop excessive ringing, and allow us to hear a clear line for the melody, the decoration, or both. Play a few simple tunes and touch on its history. A limited number of wire-strung clarsachs are available. Long nails are not needed! For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY BODHRAN TIME: Sunday 13.00 - 14.30 TUTOR: Allan MacDonald LEVEL: Come & Try Allan MacDonald will guide students through the basics of bodhrán-playing and accompaniment, with influences from Ireland, Scotland and further afield.The session will focus on learning by ear. No previous experience or music-reading skill is necessary. Some instruments will be provided but bring your bodhrán, if you have one. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY BODHRAN TIME: Sunday 16.30 - 18.00 TUTOR: Allan MacDonald LEVEL: Come & Try Allan MacDonald will guide students through the basics of bodhrán-playing and accompaniment, with influences from Ireland, Scotland and further afield.The session will focus on learning by ear. No previous experience or music-reading skill is necessary. Some instruments will be provided but bring your bodhrán, if you have one. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY BODY BEATS TIME: Saturday 16.30 - 18.00 TUTOR: Charlotte Daun LEVEL: Come & Try A fun, inclusive and interactive way to explore rhythm using only your body! Through a series of creative exercises, we’ll create music by clapping, stomping and snapping, making rhythm accessible to everyone, regardless of musical background. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY BODY BEATS TIME: Monday 13.00 - 14.30 TUTOR: Charlotte Daun LEVEL: Come & Try A fun, inclusive and interactive way to explore rhythm using only your body! Through a series of creative exercises, we’ll create music by clapping, stomping and snapping, making rhythm accessible to everyone, regardless of musical background. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY GAELIC TIME: Saturday 16.30 - 17.30 TUTOR: Màiri Macleod LEVEL: Come & Try Learn basic vocabulary and simple phrases to use around the EIHF and in other scenarios. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY GAELIC TIME: Monday 13.00 - 14.00 TUTOR: Màiri Macleod LEVEL: Come & Try Learn basic vocabulary and simple phrases to use around the EIHF and in other scenarios. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY GAELIC TIME: Tuesday 09.00 - 10.00 TUTOR: Màiri Macleod LEVEL: Come & Try Learn basic vocabulary and simple phrases to use around the EIHF and in other scenarios. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
Bring a harp (or any instrument!) along to join in this fun, all-level workshop where Mendi will guide you through all the rhythms of Indian film music, from folk beats to bhangra. Ellie will provide sheet music for the harp players and you’ll soon be immersed in the music from a variety of magical Bollywood hits! For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
Join award-winning Gaelic singer and clarsach player, Màiri, and learn a Gaelic song with harp accompaniment. Open to Gaelic beginners and learners, and non-harp players. For tutor bio click HERE. Supported by the Highland Branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
Kevin will introduce you to the steps of several Breton dances, accompanied by songs in French. No instruments are required, just your feet and your voices! For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
Do you freeze or panic when someone says “Improvise!”? Do you run out of ideas before you even start? Does your left hand get lost when your right hand gets started … and then you lose the rhythm? If you answered “Yes” to any of these – then this workshop is for YOU! It all starts with four little words that become a chord progression which turns into a complete improvisation that you can play on its own or combine with a tune you already know to expand it into a more complex improvisation. For tutor bio click HERE. Supported by the Argyll Branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
Séamus and Caoimhe will share their knowledge of the roots of authentic Irish music and song, and explore the fresh, contemporary approaches to melodic and vocal arrangement within the tradition. You are welcome to bring your harp and fiddle. For tutor bios click HERE (Séamus) and HERE (Caoimhe). Supported by the Wales Branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
New York singer/songwriter Kathy Stewart Kennedy, now resident in Scotland, has performed throughout the UK and Europe and now runs Singing for Wellbeing groups in the Scottish Borders and Edinburgh. Kathy believes that singing is our birthright, a way to express all spectrums of emotion from joy to grief. So join her and feel good singing together! For tutor bio click HERE. Supported by the Dumfires & Galloway Branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
Have you ever wondered why some people seem more resilient than others? Is resilience a fixed entity or can you learn to become more resilient? And what part does stress play? In this thought-provoking and uplifting workshop, come and learn how new discoveries about the brain have changed the way we think about resilience. Tana will teach you some simple techniques and positive thinking habits which will help to build resilience, giving you the chance to become both happier and healthier. For tutor bio click HERE. Supported by the Northumbrian Branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
Caroline will give an overview of writing for the pedal harp, with examples through music scores, collections and books. She will demonstrate composition concept progression from initial inspiration to scoring, and processing from image to music and/or music to image, with examples through her works. Caroline was named Composer of the Year at the Prix Opus 2023 and will be the central composer at One Harp World in 2026. Participants are welcome to bring scores for questions. Supported by the Bristol & West of England Branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
"Strings of Passion" is Deborah Henson-Conant's interactive concert/lecture experience that fuses music, philosophy, and humour to explore the principles of the creative process, illustrating each principle through stories and musical demonstrations that trace the journey of an idea from its creative impulse to its moment of expressive "lift-off". Using the harp as both a musical instrument and a metaphor for creativity, DHC unfolds each of the seven principles, sharing her personal experience of how engaging the principles develops a Creative Resonance between player, instrument, and listeners. Supported by the Transpennine Branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
Karen will demonstrate each of the three Scottish harps: the older wire-strung harp of the Gaels with its long resonance, the more familiar modern lever harp, and the buzzing bray harp of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The workshop will look at the different characteristics, tones, timbres, and techniques of each harp and how players today can benefit from exploring all of them, taking ideas and techniques from one type of harp and applying them to another, or adapting them to suit. For tutor bio click HERE. Supported by the Wire Branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
A wonderful opportunity to observe the highly respected harpist and composer Caroline Lizotte as she uses her expertise to guide selected harp students through pieces of their choice.Caroline founded the Lizotte Academia harp camp, specialising in teaching her own compositions. She currently teaches at the Université de Montréal’s Faculty of Music in Quebec and is a teacher and mentor to professional harpists. Supported by Camac Harps
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
Bring fiddle and flute, guitar and percussion, harp and tuba… whatever you want! The Tarab Trio invites you to join them in this fun participatory workshop full of catchy tunes from the Middle East. You will learn some Anatolian melodies and possibly even get the chance to step along to a 10/8 dance rhythm.
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
A great opportunity to sing traditional High-Brittany songs, in French, together! Lyrics will be handed out during the workshop to make learning easier, so bring your recording equipment and join Kevin in this convivial musical experience.
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
DEBORAH HENSON-CONANT This is the long-anticipated and very welcome return to the festival of Deborah "DHC" Henson-Conant, a US-based Grammy-nominated composer/performer. With electric harp, voice and looper pedal, she layers sounds in real time, weaving solo lines, vocals and stories. Her signature instrument, a carbon-fibre electric harp, was designed for her by Camac Harps, and named after her: the "DHC". Her music ranges from intimate ballads to Blues, Flamenco and Latin inspired compositions, all with a powerful singing voice, humour and stories. CAROLINE LIZOTTE & ÉTIENNE RATTHÉ This concert will feature several magical compositions by the award-winning Quebec harpist, Caroline Lizotte. She will play her beautiful piece, Close for Couloir, which also features Etienne on cello. While on tour here with the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal in 2011, Caroline was inspired by the beauty of Edinburgh and the history of Scotland to write this piece. Her dream of performing it in its source of inspiration will come true in this concert. She will also play her Kheírōn op. 53 nocturne, Odyssée op. 37, and Suite Galactique op.39. At the 15th World Harp Congress, she will be awarded the Ann Stockton Memorial Award for New Music for her important contribution to the harp repertoire. Sponsored by Camac Harps and Edinburgh Branch of the Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
The EIHF junior ensemble, consisting of young harpers from around the country, will perform a magical suite of newly created music based upon the traditional tale of The Giant and The Swan. The story will be told alongside the music by storyteller Daniel Serridge and the concert will feature a performance from Mòd prizewinners Hazel Brandt and Katie Heron. Join us for this enchanting performance that takes you deep into the woods to a world of transformation. Click HERE for info on how to join the EIHF junior ensemble. Sponsored by The Royal Celtic Society and An Comunn Gàidhealach
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
REBECCA HILL & CHARLIE STEWART Originally from Argyllshire and Perthshire, Rebecca and Charlie are a dynamic harp and fiddle duo, now based in Glasgow, whose music draws on the heritage of their individual backgrounds. As well as showcasing new material and contemporary compositional techniques, they will include a mixture of arrangements from their debut album ‘Thawcrook’, recorded in 2022, which projected them into the finals of the 'Composer of the Year' category in the MG Alba Scots Trad Music Awards 2023. "'Thawcrook' is an outstanding achievement of musicality, ingenuity and passion" - Duncan Chisholm MÀIRI CALLAN Gold medallist for Gaelic singing at the Royal National Mòd in 2021, Màiri’s programme will include traditional and new Gaelic songs with her own clàrsach accompaniments. Mairi was brought up in North Lanarkshire but has family roots in North Uist and has been steeped in Gaelic culture from a young age. THE IAIN MACLEÒID YOUNG COMPOSER 2024 The winning piece of The Clarsach Society’s Iain Macleòid Young Composer Award will be performed, and the composer will receive the award. Sponsored by The Isle of Lewis Branch of the Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
TARAB TRIO The Tarab Trio comprises Azad Shawaysi (Iran) on santur and Persian dulcimer, Saher Issa (Iraq) on saz, Anatolian lute and voice, and Tom Daun (Germany) on harp. Their music will follow the route along which Azad and Saher went to Germany: Kurdish songs of love, sorrow and the struggle for freedom, melodies from the shores of the Aegean Sea and music of the Ottoman tradition. They will perform delicate tunes for the sultan’s favourite dancers, ballads about bloody battles, lively village songs and fast dance music. "A harmonious blend of one hundred strings" SÉAMUS & CAOIMHE UÍ FHATHARTA Irish siblings, Séamus on harp and Caoimhe on fiddle, are from the Gaeltacht region of Connemara. They are also noted for their beautiful sean-nós (old-style) singing and unique arrangements of both Irish and English language songs, keeping the Irish language and their heritage at the very heart of all their musical endeavours. Séamus has performed at prestigious festivals across the globe alongside the finest Irish musicians, and he and Caoimhe are the recipients of the RTÉ Folk Award for ‘Best Emerging Artists’ 2024. Sponsored by UK Harp Association and Consulate General of Ireland in Edinburgh
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
The Willow Trio is an innovative Glasgow-based clàrsach trio consisting of Maya MacAdam, Sophie Rocks and Romy Wymer. This performance features their film, Eala Shàilein (The Swan of Salen) with brand-new choreography by Deborah Norris, projected behind the three harpists performing a live-synced score. It is an adaptation of Tchaikovsky’s iconic Swan Lake, retold through the lens of the Gaelic tale Eala Shàilein, blending traditional music from the Loch Sunart area with the classical score. Sponsored by the Glasgow branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
TĀLA TARANG Tāla Tarang, meaning “rhythm waves”, is the musical union of Indian tabla and western harp, with Mendi Singh’s powerful tabla grooves and Eleanor Turner’s hypnotic harp playing weaving a rich tapestry of sounds. Eleanor and Mendi received worldwide acclaim in their own right before sparking a new and beautiful sonic adventure when they met in 2014 and formed Tāla Tarang. Taking inspiration from nature and faith, Eleanor and Mendi relish the opportunity to perform together around the world, telling their stories through their East-meets-West compositions and electrifying improvisations that will leave you breathless. KEVIN LE PENNEC Kevin Le Pennec from Brittany will present his own beautiful songs sung in French and compositions inspired by Breton repertoire, set to an intricate mesh of heady rhythms and pop and jazz colours. Winner of the Trophée Camac in 2019 and the World Harp Competition in 2024, his modern, dynamic harp-playing blends with his clear, powerful voice. Sponsored by David and Brenda Lamb and Pilgrim Harps
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
The clarsach has been referred to as Craobh Nan Teud, The Tree of Strings. Isobel Mieras, Rachel Hair and Rosemary McKerchar are delighted to present a forest of strings as students, performers, teachers and organisers of the festival join with ensembles from five branches of The Clarsach Society and The Music Generation Laois Harp Ensemble from Ireland for a musical celebration of spring. The enchanting sound and sight of several hundred strings singing together in this Host of Harps symbolises the spirit of friendship and fun for which our festival is known. Find out how to register to perform in Host of Harps at harpfestival.co.uk/HostOfHarps
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
Alison Kinnaird has been involved in the resurgence of the Scottish harp since the 1960s and has built an international reputation as a performer and teacher. She will play tunes and songs which are linked with significant people and events throughout her life and will be joined by some friends for a few good tunes at the end! Sponsored by Jack Hayward Insurance
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
CORRINA HEWAT AND DAVID MILLIGAN Corrina is one of Scotland’s best loved harpists. She is known in the traditional music world for her work with Shine and Karine Polwart as well as with choirs and her solo work. Pianist, improvisor, composer and arranger, Dave Milligan is a musician of remarkable versatility, known for his work in the worlds of both jazz and folk. Together they will perform a selection of songs and music spanning the 30 years of their professional lives together, plus some new material they have created especially for the EIHF. Some very special guests will bring the festival to a heart-warming close. Sponsored by the London and South East branch of the Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Space
Access to all concerts* at EIHF 2025 Experience an ear-tingling array of top-class harp music for one, simple price. Full price - £115Concession - £100Under 18s - £60 Line-up to include: Caroline Lizotte & Étienne Ratthé / Deborah Henson-Conant / Séamus & Caoimhe Uí Fhlatharta / Alison Kinnaird / The Willow Trio / Corrina Hewat & Dave Milligan / Tarab Trio / Rebecca Hill & Charlie Stewart / Kevin Le Pennec / Màiri Callan / Tāla Tarang / EIHF Host of Harps *Does not include the Ceilidh [D01] Available for a limited time only, so book without delay!
George Watson's College Concerts
Concert Pass
BELLA MCNAB'SThe band will host another EIHF fun evening of ceilidh favourites and less familiar dances, guided by caller Dave Francis, from their wide repertoire. There will also be, in true ceilidh style, impromptu performances from the festival.
George Watson's College Concerts
The Gathering Space
CHILD BEGINNERS 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 09.00-10.00 TUTOR: Elinor Evans LEVEL: Beginner TEACHING METHOD: E+M: Teaching will initially be by ear with written music given out during the session. Have you ever wanted to learn the clarsach? Then come along to this course! Learn the basics of the harp through games and stories. You'll have great fun, play all sorts of music, make new friends and learn more about the most awesome instrument there is! Harps provided. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
ADULT BEGINNERS 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 TUTOR: Heather Yule LEVEL: Beginner TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching initially by ear with written music given out during the session. A perfect opportunity to try this beautiful instrument in a relaxed and supportive setting. Through simple tunes and exercises this class will introduce the first steps in learning to play the harp. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
POST BEGINNERS 4 DAY COURSE: Sat/Sun/Mon/Tue 09.00-10.30TUTOR: Toni RussellTEACHING METHOD - E+M: Teaching will initially be by ear with written music given out during the session. The perfect choice for those who have previously taken a beginners course or do not have regular lessons. Toni will help you take the next steps in your playing, concentrating on developing new techniques and learning new pieces whilst recapping on your previous knowledge and building your confidence. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
PRIMARY AGE HARP 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 TUTOR: Eleanor Hetherington LEVEL: Elementary TEACHING METHOD: E+M Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Come along and learn some fun tunes, improve your technique, build your confidence and make some new harp friends! This course is for children of primary school age (up to approximately age 11). For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
SCOTTISH AIRS 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 TUTOR: Elinor Evans LEVEL: Elementary TEACHING METHOD: E+M Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Who doesn’t love a slow air? Whatever your ability, making the harp sing while playing gentle contemplative music is a real pleasure. During this course, Elinor will teach arrangements of airs from around Scotland. With the clarsach often “borrowing” music written for other instruments, she’ll show you it can work for harps too! For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
MELLOW SCOTTISH TUNES 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 - ON ZOOM TUTOR: Cheyenne Brown LEVEL: Elementary TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. THIS COURSE IS ON ZOOM. Your zoom code and music will be sent out on Friday 11th April, 2025. Join us online to learn a combination of modern and traditional Scottish tunes. With catchy but gentle melodies and accessible arrangements, all will be taught at a manageable pace. The tunes will be specially chosen with memorable phrases and handy fingering. We’ll do lots of repetitions of each phrase and concentrate on finger patterns and placing to help secure the tunes into your muscle memory. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
SUPER SCOTTISH 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 09.00-10.30 TUTOR: Wendy Stewart LEVEL: Elementary/Intermediate TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. A rich mix of the tradition – from ancient to contemporary, slow Gaelic air to lilting pipe march – all arranged to suit a slower pace of assimilation into fingers and brain! Wendy will build up the musical layers gradually so that you can find your happy place in the class but still have aspirational levels explained on which to work throughout the year. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
FUNDAMENTAL TECHNIQUE 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 TUTOR: Eleanor Hetherington LEVEL: Elementary/Intermediate TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Expand your harp repertoire whilst focusing on some fundamentals of harp technique. Learn new and perhaps familiar tunes with time given to helping improve hand position, finger placement and sound production. Eleanor will help build your confidence whilst getting the most enjoyment from your harp. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
THE ART OF PLAYING THERAPEUTIC HARP 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 TUTOR: Sunita Staneslow LEVEL: Elementary/Intermediate TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. This course will focus on the art of playing the harp as the experienced Sunita will teach you how to create phrases that breathe, play with a beautiful tone, work with the ringing strings whilst laying a blanket of comforting sound. These are all important skills needed to enhance your musicality so come and learn to observe, react and cast a spell… For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
ARRANGING TUNES THROUGH THEIR STORIES 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 - ON ZOOM TUTOR: Heather Yule LEVEL: Elementary/Intermediate TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. THIS COURSE IS ON ZOOM. Your zoom code will be sent out on Friday 11th April. Music will be sent as needed. In this class you will learn some great tunes that have intriguing traditional stories attached to them. Often these tunes can be found with more than one version. We will look at methods to search out these variations through online and published resources, and then we can take all these elements and use them to inspire creative ideas to devise an arrangement that reflects the drama and atmosphere of the story. This will be a fun and interesting adventure accessible even to those with very little, or no, experience of arranging for the harp. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
WEST IS BEST: MELODIES FROM ARGYLL 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 TUTOR: Rebecca Hill LEVEL: Intermediate TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Come and learn the melodies and stories from around Argyll and the West Coast of Scotland, the area where Rebecca grew up surrounded by Gaelic music and language. With tunes from local collectors and composers, including some collected by Kilmore’s Rev. Patrick MacDonald in the 1700s, she will help you investigate the rhythmic and melodic characteristics of the west coast style and experiment with voicing these textures on the harp. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
BRETON DANCES 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 09.00-10.30 TUTOR: Kevin Le Pennec LEVEL: Intermediate TEACHING METHOD: E - Teaching will be by ear. Music will be given out at the end of the final class. Delve into the delightful dance music of Brittany. Kevin will use song and dance to help to teach the rhythms and melodies of Breton dance tunes on the harp. With groovy arrangements and improvisation, Kevin’s friendly and supportive style of teaching will soon have you mastering the musical phrasing and variations, ever important in this style of Celtic music. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
BAROQUE BOURRÉES AND RIOTOUS REELS 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 TUTOR: Tom Daun LEVEL: Intermediate TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Rustic dance tunes of the 18th century villages and rural areas. All over Europe amateur musicians wrote down their favourite melodies and many of them sound wonderful on harp. So come and join Tom as he looks into these sources and teaches some of his favourite Danish, French and German dance tunes. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
SCOTTISH 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 - ON ZOOM TUTOR: Gillian Fleetwood LEVEL: Intermediate TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. THIS COURSE IS ON ZOOM. Your zoom code and music will be sent out on Friday 11th April 2025. A mid-paced course celebrating the richness of the Scottish tradition, delving into the geography and peculiarities of various corners of Scotland, both ancient and modern. There is much fun to be had in learning the connections within Scotland, its history, language and the music that these elements have combined to create. Understanding these elements will help your playing to sparkle and shine like sunshine on a loch in summertime. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
CELTIC COACH TRIP 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 TUTOR: Rachel Hair LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. It’s time to pack your bag, get your harp and go on a celtic coach trip! Your tour guide Rachel will take you on a musical journey around the Celtic countries most easily accessed with a harp (flight cases not required!). We’ll be in Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, and we may even take a ferry to an a-MAN-zing 4th location. We’ll learn a tune a day from each of our stops, working first on melody before adding in left hand, all whilst learning how that tune fits into its country’s culture. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
CELTIC COACH TRIP ONLINE 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 - ON ZOOM TUTOR: Rachel Hair LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. THIS COURSE IS ON ZOOM. Your zoom code and music will be sent out on Friday 11th April 2025. It’s time to pack your bag, get your harp and go on a celtic coach trip! Your tour guide Rachel will take you on a musical journey around the Celtic countries most easily accessed with a harp (flight cases not required!). We’ll be in Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, and we may even take a ferry to an a-MAN-zing 4th location. We’ll learn a tune a day from each of our stops, working first on melody before adding in left hand, all whilst learning how that tune fits into its country’s culture. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
RAGAS TO RICHES 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 09.00-10.30 TUTOR: Eleanor Turner and Mendi Singh LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Bring spicy energy to ALL of your harp playing! It is unimaginably good fun to play harp with the tabla (paired Indian drum), so come and get in the groove and learn some ‘Indian spice’ for the uninitiated. We’ll learn a tune a day from different parts of India, encompassing the country’s different languages and cultures, all whilst enjoying the satisfaction of being ‘in the pocket’ with the gorgeous sound of the tabla. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
EDINBURGH’S TUNES 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 09.00-10.30 TUTOR: Karen Marshalsay LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Music publishing flourished in Edinburgh in the late 18th and 19th centuries, and this course will look at tunes from this period with a close Edinburgh connection, often reflected in the titles. There are some gems of tunes tucked away in these collections that sound good on the harp, although often originally published for fiddle, piano, harpsichord or flute. We will look at how to play them on harp, with subtly shifting voicings and ornamentation in traditional style. For all harps that can change key quickly (levers or pedals advised). For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
PUNCHY ACCOMPANIMENT SKILLS 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 09.00-10.30 TUTOR: Rebecca Hill LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Accompanying fiddle, bagpipes or another harp, is great fun. It allows freedom to experiment with expressive harmonies and rich basslines, as well as an opportunity to showcase a percussive and rhythmic drive well-suited to the harp. In this course we will look at flowing chord sequences and the importance of responding to the shape of the melody alongside techniques and punchy rhythmic patterns that can be used for jigs and reels. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
INSIDE BAROQUE FLAMENCO 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 TUTOR: Deborah Henson-Conant LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Deborah Henson-Conant's "Baroque Flamenco" combines a classical rondo with rhythmic improvisation, fiery strumming techniques, billowing arpeggios and percussive punctuation in a harp show-stopper that pits the powerful 'Mexican Triple Waltz" rhythm against a Classical minuet. This iconic piece can look daunting on the page - but instead of learning note-by-note from the sheet music, in this class, the composer breaks it down for you, so you can build a version that plays to your strengths and passions. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
PEDAL HARP: EXTENDED TECHNIQUES 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 TUTOR: Caroline Lizotte LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: M+E - Teaching will be by written music as well as by ear. A unique opportunity to work alongside pedal harpist and composer, Caroline, in an immersive exploration of innovative extended techniques in solo, chamber, and orchestral harp music. Participants will examine an extensive range of accessories for these techniques, also used in Caroline’s own works, as they engage with and explore the different concepts of writing for harp, enhancing their creative toolkit in the process. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
MUSIC FROM BULGARIA 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 TUTOR: Tsvetelina Likova LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: M+E - Teaching will be by written music as well as by ear. Have you ever wondered how traditional Bulgarian music sounds on the harp? Well, come and give it a go. Tsvetelina teaches both traditional and modern melodies inspired by the music of her homeland. Bulgarian music is peppered with irregular rhythms, dissonant harmonies, and bright colours. Remember Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares? Learn new sounds and traditional Bulgarian ornamentation whilst enjoying an insight into Bulgarian culture. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
BLUES FOR HARP 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 09.00-10.30 TUTOR: Deborah Henson-Conant LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E+M: Teaching will initially be by ear with written music given out during the session. Learning the Blues teaches you more about patterns, improvisation and spontaneous ensemble playing than any other form of music. Blues can be upbeat, slow or simple, but the best part of Blues is that it’s a great type of music to play in mixed ability settings. You’ll learn how to quickly find a Blues scale in different keys, how to play crunches and how to bend notes. You will also learn to swing the rhythm, and to create melodic, accompaniment and bassline patterns and learn a simplified version of DHC's popular "New Blues" on which you can improvise, so the next time someone says “Wanna Jam?” you can say – “Let’s Play the Blues!”. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
SPICE UP YOUR LIFE 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 TUTOR: Eleanor Turner and Mendi Singh LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E+M: Teaching will initially be by ear with written music given out during the session. Enjoy the beauty of Indian music whilst collaborating with a percussionist. Mendi and Ellie will introduce you to the time cycles Teen Taal, Taal Dadra, Taal Kaharva and Rupak Taal, which will help you to shape some simple compositions. The Five Jatis (South Indian polyrhythmic system) will enrich the rhythmic elements of your playing and we will focus on using the key concepts of Indian music – Raga, Taal, Kayda, Pulta and Tihai – to bring structure and clarity to your ideas. Ellie will provide written materials but this course is also perfect for those who love working by ear and are keen to improvise and create vibrant interactions. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
READY, SET, SESSION! 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 TUTOR: Neil Wood LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E+M: Teaching will initially be by ear with written music given out during the session. Have you ever wanted to play in a traditional music session, or taken your harp to a session and felt lost? Unlock the joy of playing your harp in a session with this course which will cover all aspects of session-playing including session etiquette, finding the key, dual-handed accompaniment, accompanying tunes you don’t know and leading a set. After class, participants can try out their new skills in EIHF evening and slow lunchtime sessions. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
ORIENTAL HARP: MIDDLE EASTERN MUSIC 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 09.00-10.30 TUTOR: Tarab Trio LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E+M: Teaching will initially be by ear with written music given out during the session. Paintings and poems show that harps were in use in Arab and Ottoman music until the end of the 17th century. In this course we will bring them back as we learn some catchy tunes from the Middle East. From Anatolia to the shores of Aegean Sea, join us and take the chance to play your harp along with the sound of the Persian santur (hammered dulcimer) and the Kurdish saz (long-necked lute), a hundred strings interweaving and creating a magic soundscape.Paintings and poems show that harps were in use in Arab and Ottoman music until the end of the 17th century. In this course we will bring them back as we learn some catchy tunes from the Middle East. From Anatolia to the shores of Aegean Sea, join us and take the chance to play your harp along with the sound of the Persian santur (hammered dulcimer) and the Kurdish saz (long-necked lute), a hundred strings interweaving and creating a magic soundscape. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
HARPS IN PARTS 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 TUTOR: Wendy Stewart LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E+M: Teaching will initially be by ear with written music given out during the session. Not a meeting for broken harps, but melodies, counter melodies, funky bass lines, flowing chords and delicate riffs, all to be enjoyed in a group and equally adaptable for solo, duo or trio playing. Wendy will bring a mix of traditional and newer pieces with lines suitable for any level to try out as part of a bigger sound. The course will also give suggested arrangements that work for the solo harper, small group and big band! For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
ACCOMPANYING SONG 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 13.00-14.30 TUTOR: Kevin Le Pennec LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E - Teaching will be by ear. Music will be given out at the end of the final class. This course offers the chance to explore different techniques for accompanying songs. Kevin, an experienced singer and accompanist, will teach two-hand coordination, rhythmic techniques, how to create melodic and rhythmic loops whilst accompanying others and also how to integrate singing into your own self-accompaniment. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
TUNES FROM SOUTH UIST AND BARRA FOR WIRE HARP 4 DAY COURSE Sat/Sun/Mon/Tues 16.30-18.00 TUTOR: Karen Marshalsay LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E+M Teaching by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Featuring a mix of lullabies, waulking songs and other tunes from the Gaelic traditions of South Uist and Barra, this wire harp course will look at how to play them on wire strings, with fingering and damping considerations, and advice on adding ornamentation and bass notes to further enhance and support the tunes. Karen will teach and explain the techniques she uses in her playing of the tunes, including coupled hands, fingering gestures from Ap Huw and Bunting, and others such as ‘gurglies’, cuts and traditional grace notes. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
SCOTTISH HARP TUNES OLD AND NEW THIS COURSE IS DELIVERED OVER FOUR SESSIONS: Sat 9.00am - 10.30am | Sat 1.00pm - 2.30pm Sun 9.00am - 10.30am | Sun 1.00pm - 2.30pm TUTOR: Alison Kinnaird LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching will be by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Join tradition bearer, Alison, as she teaches both traditional tunes that were composed for the harp and others that suit the instrument wonderfully well. Melody will be the focus of the course, allowing attendees the option of feeling secure on the tune, or the chance to take it further as we discuss the possibilities of harmony, decoration and variation. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
IRISH HARP THIS COURSE IS DELIVERED OVER FOUR SESSIONS: Sat 9.00am - 10.30am | Sat 1.00pm - 2.30pm Sun 9.00am - 10.30am | Sun 1.00pm - 2.30pm TUTOR: Séamus Ó Flatharta LEVEL: Intermediate/Advanced TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching will be by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Led by multi-instrumentalist and award-winning Irish harpist Séamus Ó Flatharta, this course will allow participants to expand their repertoire of Irish music, develop technique and explore the history of the Irish Harp. You will become acquainted with some of Ireland’s most renowned harping figures including Turlough O’Carolan and the Connellan Brothers, acquire some common dance tunes from the West of Ireland and explore the extremely unique repertoire of sean-nós songs and airs. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
IRISH TRADITIONAL FIDDLE THIS COURSE IS DELIVERED OVER FOUR SESSIONS: Sat 9.00am - 10.30am | Sat 1.00pm - 2.30pm Sun 9.00am - 10.30am | Sun 1.00pm - 2.30pm TUTOR: Caoimhe Ní Fhlatharta LEVEL: Mixed Ability TEACHING METHOD: E+M - Teaching will be by ear initially with written music given out during the session. Led by Caoimhe Ní Fhlatharta who recently graduated with a degree in Irish Music from the Irish World Academy at the University of Limerick. This course will be focused on expanding repertoire, developing technique and discovering personal style. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY WIRE-STRUNG HARP TIME: Saturday 09.00 - 10.30 TUTOR: Bill Taylor LEVEL: Come & Try An opportunity to try out the beautifully resonant wire-strung Highland clarsach. The technique we use is often called playing “in the stopped style”, where the finger pads damp certain strings to stop excessive ringing, and allow us to hear a clear line for the melody, the decoration, or both. Play a few simple tunes and touch on its history. A limited number of wire-strung clarsachs are available. Long nails are not needed! For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY WIRE-STRUNG HARP TIME: Sunday 16.30 - 18.00 TUTOR: Bill Taylor LEVEL: Come & Try An opportunity to try out the beautifully resonant wire-strung Highland clarsach. The technique we use is often called playing “in the stopped style”, where the finger pads damp certain strings to stop excessive ringing, and allow us to hear a clear line for the melody, the decoration, or both. Play a few simple tunes and touch on its history. A limited number of wire-strung clarsachs are available. Long nails are not needed! For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY BODHRAN TIME: Sunday 13.00 - 14.30 TUTOR: Allan MacDonald LEVEL: Come & Try Allan MacDonald will guide students through the basics of bodhrán-playing and accompaniment, with influences from Ireland, Scotland and further afield.The session will focus on learning by ear. No previous experience or music-reading skill is necessary. Some instruments will be provided but bring your bodhrán, if you have one. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY BODHRAN TIME: Sunday 16.30 - 18.00 TUTOR: Allan MacDonald LEVEL: Come & Try Allan MacDonald will guide students through the basics of bodhrán-playing and accompaniment, with influences from Ireland, Scotland and further afield.The session will focus on learning by ear. No previous experience or music-reading skill is necessary. Some instruments will be provided but bring your bodhrán, if you have one. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY BODY BEATS TIME: Saturday 16.30 - 18.00 TUTOR: Charlotte Daun LEVEL: Come & Try A fun, inclusive and interactive way to explore rhythm using only your body! Through a series of creative exercises, we’ll create music by clapping, stomping and snapping, making rhythm accessible to everyone, regardless of musical background. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY BODY BEATS TIME: Monday 13.00 - 14.30 TUTOR: Charlotte Daun LEVEL: Come & Try A fun, inclusive and interactive way to explore rhythm using only your body! Through a series of creative exercises, we’ll create music by clapping, stomping and snapping, making rhythm accessible to everyone, regardless of musical background. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY GAELIC TIME: Saturday 16.30 - 17.30 TUTOR: Màiri Macleod LEVEL: Come & Try Learn basic vocabulary and simple phrases to use around the EIHF and in other scenarios. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY GAELIC TIME: Monday 13.00 - 14.00 TUTOR: Màiri Macleod LEVEL: Come & Try Learn basic vocabulary and simple phrases to use around the EIHF and in other scenarios. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
COME & TRY GAELIC TIME: Tuesday 09.00 - 10.00 TUTOR: Màiri Macleod LEVEL: Come & Try Learn basic vocabulary and simple phrases to use around the EIHF and in other scenarios. For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Courses
GWC Classroom Space
Bring a harp (or any instrument!) along to join in this fun, all-level workshop where Mendi will guide you through all the rhythms of Indian film music, from folk beats to bhangra. Ellie will provide sheet music for the harp players and you’ll soon be immersed in the music from a variety of magical Bollywood hits! For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
Join award-winning Gaelic singer and clarsach player, Màiri, and learn a Gaelic song with harp accompaniment. Open to Gaelic beginners and learners, and non-harp players. For tutor bio click HERE. Supported by the Highland Branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
Kevin will introduce you to the steps of several Breton dances, accompanied by songs in French. No instruments are required, just your feet and your voices! For tutor bio click HERE.
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
Do you freeze or panic when someone says “Improvise!”? Do you run out of ideas before you even start? Does your left hand get lost when your right hand gets started … and then you lose the rhythm? If you answered “Yes” to any of these – then this workshop is for YOU! It all starts with four little words that become a chord progression which turns into a complete improvisation that you can play on its own or combine with a tune you already know to expand it into a more complex improvisation. For tutor bio click HERE. Supported by the Argyll Branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
Séamus and Caoimhe will share their knowledge of the roots of authentic Irish music and song, and explore the fresh, contemporary approaches to melodic and vocal arrangement within the tradition. You are welcome to bring your harp and fiddle. For tutor bios click HERE (Séamus) and HERE (Caoimhe). Supported by the Wales Branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
New York singer/songwriter Kathy Stewart Kennedy, now resident in Scotland, has performed throughout the UK and Europe and now runs Singing for Wellbeing groups in the Scottish Borders and Edinburgh. Kathy believes that singing is our birthright, a way to express all spectrums of emotion from joy to grief. So join her and feel good singing together! For tutor bio click HERE. Supported by the Dumfires & Galloway Branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
Have you ever wondered why some people seem more resilient than others? Is resilience a fixed entity or can you learn to become more resilient? And what part does stress play? In this thought-provoking and uplifting workshop, come and learn how new discoveries about the brain have changed the way we think about resilience. Tana will teach you some simple techniques and positive thinking habits which will help to build resilience, giving you the chance to become both happier and healthier. For tutor bio click HERE. Supported by the Northumbrian Branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
Caroline will give an overview of writing for the pedal harp, with examples through music scores, collections and books. She will demonstrate composition concept progression from initial inspiration to scoring, and processing from image to music and/or music to image, with examples through her works. Caroline was named Composer of the Year at the Prix Opus 2023 and will be the central composer at One Harp World in 2026. Participants are welcome to bring scores for questions. Supported by the Bristol & West of England Branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
"Strings of Passion" is Deborah Henson-Conant's interactive concert/lecture experience that fuses music, philosophy, and humour to explore the principles of the creative process, illustrating each principle through stories and musical demonstrations that trace the journey of an idea from its creative impulse to its moment of expressive "lift-off". Using the harp as both a musical instrument and a metaphor for creativity, DHC unfolds each of the seven principles, sharing her personal experience of how engaging the principles develops a Creative Resonance between player, instrument, and listeners. Supported by the Transpennine Branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
Karen will demonstrate each of the three Scottish harps: the older wire-strung harp of the Gaels with its long resonance, the more familiar modern lever harp, and the buzzing bray harp of the Renaissance and Baroque periods. The workshop will look at the different characteristics, tones, timbres, and techniques of each harp and how players today can benefit from exploring all of them, taking ideas and techniques from one type of harp and applying them to another, or adapting them to suit. For tutor bio click HERE. Supported by the Wire Branch of The Clarsach Society
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
A wonderful opportunity to observe the highly respected harpist and composer Caroline Lizotte as she uses her expertise to guide selected harp students through pieces of their choice.Caroline founded the Lizotte Academia harp camp, specialising in teaching her own compositions. She currently teaches at the Université de Montréal’s Faculty of Music in Quebec and is a teacher and mentor to professional harpists. Supported by Camac Harps
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
Bring fiddle and flute, guitar and percussion, harp and tuba… whatever you want! The Tarab Trio invites you to join them in this fun participatory workshop full of catchy tunes from the Middle East. You will learn some Anatolian melodies and possibly even get the chance to step along to a 10/8 dance rhythm.
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space
A great opportunity to sing traditional High-Brittany songs, in French, together! Lyrics will be handed out during the workshop to make learning easier, so bring your recording equipment and join Kevin in this convivial musical experience.
George Watson's College Workshops
GWC Workshop Space