Forum Replies Created
-
Posts
-
Pilgrim sells a small bench that the harp can fit on. It raises the
instrument about 11″. I own one and I find it more comfortable
to sit in a standard kitchen chair and raise the harp when circumstances
allow.If there is no harp instructor listed on the faculty roster, why not contact the conductor for audtion requirements.You have a good idea–usually I encourage students to have a couple of contrasting excerpts and a solo prepared. Occasionally sightreading is part of the audition, so you might find working on that skill useful.
Good luck!! I hope you earn a scholarship!
Anita
Anita
Dear Lauren,
In addition to conservatories, you might want to look into a liberal arts college where you can pursue academic and musical courses. I teach (and attended) Furman University where I double majored in French and harp performance.In North Carolina, the teachers receive letters asking us to recommend pupils for auditions. Does your teacher have leads? Also our symphony has three training orchestras. Perhaps one of your orchestras has an affiliation/educational program.
I’m glad you realize that many people are here to help you reach the next stage of your development and to help you move forward to your fullest potential. Sometimes the details are what stick in the mind of an examining committee. To many judges, it suggests the degree of respect for the event or for the process.
Good luck and welcome to training as an orchestral player. We’re pulling for you!Anita Burroughs-Price
Principal Harp, NC SymphonyHi,
I teach at Furman University and we have a summer program June 12-18. The fee is $400 for the week including room and board. THere are daily classes in theory, technique, and practical musicianship (choosing repertoire for Christian, Jewish, and civil weddings, etc.) Orchestra, jazz band, and harp ensemble meet daily. There are also pizza parties, swimming parties, etc.It’s a good program. You may email marcella.frese@furman.edu for an application if your interested.
Have fun.
Anita Burroughs-Price
Principal Harp, NC SymphonyI grew up when at the first lesson, I was given a method book and directions on purchasing “harp pumps”—closed toe, closed heel. I realize the wisdom. I find my ankles more comfortable and accuracy easier when I wear the same shoes for practicing and performing. At harp camp, the harpists were always easily recognized–shorts and dress shoes at orchestra rehearsal!
Thank you all for your gracious assistance. I have already ordered 11 new books.
Keep the suggestions coming!
Anita
I would begin by speaking with your teacher. They often receive invitations for event where you could get experience and are good at referring those event where you could really shine. Also, contact local restaurants and retirement comunities for opportunities to entertain. Contact your school choral and instrumental conductors to see if they know of opportunities.
Always be well prepared and have business cards printed up to circulate.I like the “Run, Tommy run” idea. My colleague used “Not diff-i-cult.”
I am a realist: I use “I hate this piece.” (Maybe switch to “I love this piece” after the counting gets easier. It’s gotten me through many years of teaching and performing.Good luck, my friend. You can do it!
Anita Burroughs-Price
I have taught students who’ve studied with Susan Brady, Elizabeth Remy and Ellen Foster in Atlanta. You have lots of great choices. There is an excellent youth symphony in Atlanta which may be of interest.
Take care.
Anita Burroughs-Price
Dear Molly, I teach at Furman University, a liberal arts college in Greenville, SC. Keith Lockhart, Boston Pops conductor, graduated there in 1981 and returns regularly to present seminars. Furman offers orchestra, chamber music, chorus and band if you wish, as well as a challenging academic environment.
My undergraduate training was at Furman with Marjorie Tyre, a wonderful Salzedo protegee. My graduate work was at Yale with Gloria Agostini, one of Grandjany’s cherished pupils, and I studied after Yale at London’s Royal College of Music with Marisa Robles.
Choosing a teacher is a great joy. Having an introductory lesson is often helpful.
