WAFHS Harpers Getaway Weekend 2024
Workshop Descriptions

Martha Geouge Hill

Tunes from the Appalachian Mountains, Or Are They?
As a native of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Martha has researched tunes in the Appalachians that arrived with the Scottish, Irish, and English settlers in the 18th and 19th Centuries. She will share several of these, which she has arranged for harp (and maybe voice, too!)
Copies of tunes will be provided.

Who Was Malcolm McDonald?
Little is known about Malcolm McDonald, but he lived in Dunkeld, Scotland, and published a book of his compositions in 1788. Copies of his original book are available from Taigh na Teud music publishers on the Isle of Skye. Martha will highlight three of the tunes — an air, a strathspey, and a jig — while also exploring accompaniment patterns and chords.
Lead sheets provided.

Let's Learn Some Beautiful Airs!
As harpers we always need beautiful tunes to play for therapy, receptions, church, weddings, etc. Learn three new airs composed by Martha — Springtime at Rhu and Shandon Parish, Jordan's on Rosemary Street, and Olde Christmas Eve.
Copies of tunes will be provided.


Janet Witman

Finger Focus and Warm-ups
Janet will present her "tried and true" finger exercises tailored towards balanced hands and seemingly "effortless" playing! Advanced beginners and intermediate players will appreciate the technique sequences that Janet will present in taking your playing to another level.
Handouts provided.

Popular Music for your Repertoire!
Janet is known for her harmonically beautiful arrangements that give listenersand players goosebumps! She will offer up three pieces (they'll surprise you!) that have multiple uses in your playbooks.
Music provided.

Repertoire Class
This class is for anyone and any kind of music!

Whatever you choose, it should be a piece you have worked on to some extent. You don't have to bring sheet music if it's something you have just picked up or remembered. (Learned by ear). The class should be great fun!

Each performer will play for Janet, and she will give you some friendly tips to improve your playing.

Time to Play Together!
There is nothing like the sound of harps playing in harmony! Janet will begin the workshop with a round — taught by ear, followed by a Christmas lullaby from Finland, and wrapping up with one of Brandywine Harps favorite ensemble pieces!
Music provided.




WAFHS
Harpers Getaway