From 1929 to 2001, harpists came from around the world to study at the Salzedo Harp Colony at the end of Marine Avenue in Camden, Maine. Harpists will gather again on July 12–14 to perform two free concerts open to the public as part of the Camden Harp Celebration, a tribute to the Salzedo Harp Colony and Alice Chalifoux. More than 80 harpists from throughout the United States and as far away as Australia have made plans to attend.
A concert on Saturday, July 13, at 7 p.m. at Rockport Opera House will feature Salzedo Harp Colony alumni Judy Loman (former Toronto Symphony principal harp and JUNO award winner), Douglas Rioth (recently retired San Francisco Symphony principal harp), Joan Raeburn Holland (teacher at Interlochen Arts Academy and University of Michigan), and Nancy Lendrim and Jody Guinn of the Salzedo Harp Duo.
On Sunday, July 14, at 2 p.m., Paula Page (former Houston Symphony principal harp) will lead a harp ensemble concert in the Camden Public Library Amphitheatre in the tradition of the historic concerts presented there by Carlos Salzedo. Twenty-five featured alumni will perform as part of the ensemble.
Throughout the 20th century, approximately 50 harpists traveled to Camden each summer to study at the school overlooking Sherman’s Cove, staying in the homes of local residents. Founded by Carlos Salzedo, harp instructor at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, the school was later bequeathed to his successor, Alice Chalifoux. A memorial bench dedication at the end of Marine Avenue will take place July 14 to commemorate the historic school, and a photo presentation spanning seven decades will be on display throughout the event.
Organized by Page, Lendrim, and Kimberly Rowe, the weekend also serves as a reunion of Salzedo Harp Colony alumni through several social events exclusively for harpists. Page says all three organizers have enjoyed planning the Camden Harp Celebration. “We have had a fun, easy time collaborating on what we envisioned the weekend might encompass,” Page says. “I am so looking forward to seeing old harp friends and sharing stories about Camden and Alice Chalifoux!”
For more details, visit the Camden Harp Celebration website.
