
Beginner harper, very late starter!
#46
Posted 18 November 2018 - 09:54
I've chosen to play Pampuch's arrangement of Pachelbel's Canon, and Betty Paret's Berceuse de Noel for my entry into the solo world!!
#47
Posted 18 November 2018 - 10:20
Choir conductor: "Dorfmouse, do you think you could accompany one of the carols in the Advent concert?"
"Ermmm...."
"Yes, just make up a simple accompaniment! And it'd be silly to have the harp there for just one song wouldn't it - the audience would love to hear a couple of short pieces! Not many harps round here."
Guess what I'm doing in a couple of weeks. Not one to be called chicken, me. Gulp!!
Just seen this! That's wonderful! They'll love it and it'll be soooo much fun preparing, I'm sure!
#48
Posted 18 November 2018 - 18:27
Sounds great, Dorfmouse, congratulations with your entry in the solo world.
#49
Posted 30 December 2018 - 13:38
Well, my solo debut was a real roller coaster. The Pachelbel went completely off the rails and only got back on to the right chord on the last bar. I exaggerate not! The Berceuse was super and I really enjoyed playing it. The carol accompaniment was OK, but the choir went so flat I didn't feel comfortable. No way of tuning down to match them!
So onwards and sideways. I'm having a go at harmonics as I seem to produce some nice ones accidentally in the right hand when crossing under .... !
Am continuing with my resolve of lots of "simple" pieces that can sound beautful and Irish slow airs are great for this. I'll revist some of the pieces that I gave up on previously that were just a bit too much e.g. a couple of Bernhard Andre's Ribambelles. Unfortunately there's not enough time and energy in the week to do as much as I like, what with piano, choir and (aarrrgh!) preparing for a flute exam.
But I decided to definitely retire at the end of this academic year, which will free up the daily 2-3 hours of terror on the Autobahn. So I'm glad to have made a head start on this lovely instrument.
Would love to hear about other people's progress!
#50
Posted 01 January 2019 - 11:47
dofmouse - you so inspire me but sadly, I got a little way and then damaged my hand badly... so the harp fell by the wayside yet again!!! I'm sure you're right about getting some pieces you feel good about - I'm sure that will build confidence. I'm not saying, I'll never learn the harp but I think it's parked for a bit! I do wish you all the best with retirement. It was the best thing that ever happened to me because without it other wonderful things would never have happened. I hope yours is joyous too!
#51
Posted 02 January 2019 - 07:49
#52
Posted 02 January 2019 - 12:17
I bent some fingers backwards on my right hand as I did a handstand from tripping over the flex on an electric blanket around November 1st! The two worse joints (3 and 4 on the harp) have just now started to work properly. The harp is still on the agenda but not until I recover my recorder position as I have a recorder teacher now!!! dorfmouse - you really are inspirational. And I love your optimism! It's a joy! I don't regret for one moment the time I spent with my harp; I will do so again! Happy Harping New Year!!!