Interview
What is the most satisfying aspect of your work?
Playing solo and the ‘buzz’ you get when a performance goes well.
What are the most difficult aspects?
Practice, sore fingers and moving the harp around.
What advice would you give to a young person who would like to become a harpist?
You need very devoted parents!
For how long would you practise on a normal day?
Variable depending on my schedule but if working for a recital approximately two to three hours.
What qualities do you need to become a professional musician?
Dedication.
Does the harp make particular demands on the player?
It is very physically demanding. It is also very difficult! Sore fingers can be a problem.
How many strings does a harp have?
A full size concert harp has 47 strings.
What is the frame of the harp made of?
Wood with metal mechanisms.
What is the purpose of the seven pedals?
One for each note of the scale (A,B,C,D,E,F,G). Three positions: flat, natural, sharp. Also used to change key.
The programme features music to resemble running water. Can the harp adapt to ‘heavier’ subjects?
Yes. Harp music is much more varied than people tend to think.
Is there a problem transporting such a large instrument?
Yes. It requires an estate car, thick covers, a trolley and a man to help with steps!
Do all orchestras feature a harp?
Not all orchestral music has a harp part, but some pieces can have four or more!
What are your ambitions for the future?
To continue to broaden my repertoire and when I can’t move it around anymore, maybe I’ll open a coffee shop!
© 2000 Channel Four Television Corporation
