This article extra is part of our Summer Harp Camp Roundup in this issue.
Claire Rose Englander
Philadelphia, Pa., 8th Grade
Attended YAHS Prep Division in 2022 and 2023
“One of the best parts of my experience at the program was meeting other harpists around my age. I still keep in touch with many of the friends I made at YAHS Prep. At the cafeteria on campus, there was great food and even better desserts. My dinners always included soft serve. At camp, I learned how to read and play pop music, and at the end of the week, I performed “Karma” by Taylor Swift in ensemble. It was so fun to play a song I know and love. After camp, I even printed out another pop song that has been on my playlist to work on, “Golden Hour” by JVKE. I also loved having the opportunity to perform in a harp ensemble and perform individual solos as well. Prep was my first time in an ensemble. It is amazing to see and hear so many harps together in one space.”
Sunshine Quan
Rochester, N.Y., doctoral graduate student
Attended the Mostly Modern Festival in 2023
“My advice to harpists is to, first, choose the programs that interest you the most! Second, I would always recommend festivals that have a heavy orchestral component. The rehearsal and performance schedule is usually comparable to a professional orchestra, and it would be an invaluable experience before entering the professional world.”
IsabellaGrace Ebo
Fort Worth, Texas, 12th Grade
Attended TCU Summer Harp Workshop in 2022 and 2023
“[Summer camp] is a fantastic way to meet new harp friends, learn from amazing teachers, and grow as a harpist and musician in general. I enjoyed my experience so much and still keep in touch with the people I met while I was there. If the program you are considering is on a college campus, it can also be a great way to get a taste of campus life! No matter where it is though, it’s not something you want to miss.”
Nancy Kaiser
Madison, Wis., adult beginner student
Attended the Midwest Harp Festival in 2023
“There were four outstanding aspects of this program, in my opinion and experience: 1. The focus on ensemble work, with groups and parts assigned in advance by skill level. The music and audio clips at both practice and performance tempo were distributed well in advance, so that participants came prepared. 2. Each of the three groups was able to work with each of the three primary ensemble conductors, and each conductor had a particular rehearsal style. The final concert then featured segments by each ensemble as well as two pieces by the combined ensembles. The organizational structure was superb! 3.The esprit de corps was magnificent—instructors and participants shared meals, and the general atmosphere was open and friendly. The housing arrangements were comfortable and contributed to the informal spirit and mutual support. 4. The afternoon workshops, the concerts by the conductors, and other instructors and guest artist Bridget Kibbey were richly productive and musically amazing.”
