Hispanic Heritage Month

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15. Harp Column Music is joining the celebration by suggesting that our practical harpist community learn a traditional Hispanic tune or a piece written by a Hispanic composer.

Titles with an * are playable on lever harp. 

*La muñeca de trapo

by José Enrique Guzmán

This gorgeous piece, which translates to “The Rag Doll,” was inspired by Mexican rag dolls. Written by José Enrique Guzmán, the piece features lush chords and harmonies. Be sure to watch the video on the product page to see what these special dolls look like!

*Som Coïman

arr. Kim Robertson

Kim Robertson has arranged this traditional Bolivian tune for all to enjoy. Slow and simple in nature, it is very easy to catch on to the melody, making it easy to learn.

*Progressive Empathy

by Juan María Solare

This unique collection is new to Harp Column Music and is an excellent choice for lever harpists wanting to perform more contemporary works. Written by Argentinian composer Juan María Solare, the collection features five short pieces. My favorites are “Millpond” and “Until the Dust Settles.”

*Danza No. 1

by Juan Riveros

If you received the September-October 2024 issue of Harp Column, then you already have this fabulous piece at your fingertips. Simply tear it out of the magazine and get learning! The fun, syncopated dance by Juan Riveros is an absolute joy to play.

*Malagueña

arr. Louise Trotter

Ernesto Lecuona’s iconic work lives on for harpists to enjoy through Louise Trotter’s simple but effective arrangement. Rolled chords, arpeggios, and a miniature cadenza make this an intermediate-level show stopper!

*Vamos tocar harpa

by Oscar Rodríguez Do Campo and Glaucia Castilhos

This fabulous method book by Oscar Rodríguez Do Campo and Glaucia Castilhos is the first of its kind, translated into both in Spanish and Portuguese (please note: it does not include an English version). Progressive and technical exercises are included in addition to more than 45 original and traditional pieces from Argentina, Brazil, and other countries.

*Juanita

arr. Meinir Heulyn

This beloved Spanish folk song has a cheerful melody despite being a ballad. Meinir Heulyn’s arrangement is very accessible and easy to read.

Venezolana No. 3

by Alfredo Rolando Ortiz

Cuban composer Alfredo Rolando Ortiz immigrated to Venezuela at age 11. His original Venezuelan waltz is both dynamic and exciting. The piece switches back and forth between 3/4 and 6/8, and concludes with a dramatic finale.

Harp Music from Argentina

arr. Marcela Méndez

Marcela Méndez has compiled, edited, and arranged nine works by various Argentinian composers (Luis Gianneo, Félix Lebano, Alberto Williams, Julian Aguirre, and Remo Pignoni). In this collection Méndez says “you will find a wealth of varied, dazzling, and vivid music to expand your repertoire, recital programs or practice sessions, and to broaden your musical and technical horizons.” An extensive preface with information about the composers and works is included. 

Tico Tico

arr. Angela Klöhn 

This incredibly exciting Brazilian Choro tune has been expertly arranged by Angela Klöhn. The infectious, virtuosic melody is perfect for concert programs and makes a very compelling finale or encore piece. 

Hispania Vol. 1

arr. Oscar Rodríguez Do Campo

This collection by Oscar Rodríguez Do Campo includes four transcriptions that were originally written as harpsichord pieces. There is one transcription for each of the four “Spanish fathers” of classical music from the 18th century: Antonio Soler, Josep Freixenet, Mateo Albéniz, and José Gallés.

Fandango

by Emmanuel Padilla Holguín

Mexican harpist Emmanuel Padilla Holguín has arranged Antonio Soler’s “Fandango.” This piece was also originally written for harpsichord. Energetic and upbeat, it keeps you on your toes throughout.

Latin American Harps: History, Music and Techniques

by Alfredo Rolando Ortiz

If you want to learn some traditional Latin American music from different countries, check out this book by Alfredo Rolando Ortiz. It dives into special techniques from different countries and explores harp music from Venezuela, Mexico, Colombia, Paraguay, Perú, Ecuador, and Chile.

Volver a Patinar (Roller Skating Again)

by Juan Pablo Contreras

Inspired by roller skating in Central Park, this piece by Mexican composer Juan Pablo Contreras is delicate, short, and sweet. It was a prize winner in Harp Column Music’s 2020 New Music Contest.