Now in its twenty-sixth year, the Elyrica Summer Harp Program focuses on ensembles. Elyrica is open to harpists of all levels, from age 8 through adults. We welcome students who are quite new to the harp; intermediate players who will enjoy playing in a group and working with a conductor; advanced players who have the opportunity to play some fabulous repertoire, help coach the younger players and do some conducting or arranging too; and we also have a great group of adult harpists who really enjoy the opportunity to play together and work on their music intensively for the week.
The music we play at Elyrica changes every year, and we always have a variety – from beautiful classical works, rhythmic Latin selections, favorite current pop songs, delightful Celtic tunes, and more. You can include a request if there is something you would love to play! The music is arranged for each participant and sent out ahead.
The Elyrica program is non-competitive and focused on working together, learning together, enriching skills through playing and listening. Lasting friendships have been forged during the week. It is so great to have fun making music and learning from each other! We always have wonderful visiting professional harpists each summer who share their unique voice and experience.
Our days will begin with body stretches and harp warm-ups. We will have focused rehearsal time with our faculty working on the music that is chosen for your level and sent out ahead. Each afternoon we will enjoy an interactive workshop or performance or a masterclass. The workshops
will include topics such as having fun at the harp; life as a free-lance musician; arranging or writing for the harp; practicing strategies; playing in a duo; Latin American rhythms; harp maintenance; and more. We will have music games for the younger participants. There will also be a time each day where participants can talk or eat lunch together, and continue past friendships, or establish new ones! Everyone loves the non-competitive, community-based aspect of Elyrica, and we will continue that in 2024! The dedication and progress through the week always astounds me! Each participant makes incredible growth and goes home with a new level of musicianship. We will finish the Elyrica Program with a performance of the music we have worked on through the week!
Comments from past participants:
“It was fun to meet new friends that can make music with me.”
“My music reading skills really improved, my posture, my sound and my intonation!”
“Always a worthwhile week!”
“Beautiful music – I really enjoyed the music selections & arrangements.”
“I really enjoyed the program. I want to come back next year.”
Look for “Elyrica Camp” on Twitter, Facebook and YouTube, including video from past Elyrica performances!