2024 SUMMER HARP WORKSHOPS!
Open to all harpists
To Registe email us [email protected]
$40 per workshop
Wednesday June 5, 5:00-6:30 pm
Musical Magic: Unleashing Joy - Discover the Art of Arranging Your Own Tunes and Therapeutic Playing Techniques
~Kristal
Wednesday June 5, 7:00-8:00 pm
Harping Together: Empowering Parents to Nurture Musical Growth in Children - Part 1: Interactive Q&A Session on Zoom/Hybrid
~Kristal
Thursday June 6, 6:30-8:00 pm
Slaying the Procrastination Dragon: Unlocking Efficient and Productive Harp Practice - Mastering Time Management and Goal-Setting Strategies
~Kristal
Friday June 7th, 6:30-8:00 pm
The Art of Levers: A Journey Through Classical Harp Music pt 1 Unlock the beauty of classical music on the lever harp with our workshop focusing on lever technique!
~Amelia
Monday July 1, 6:30-8:00 pm
Electrifying the Strings: Exploring the World of Electric and Electroacoustic Harp
~Vincent
Tuesday July 2 6:30-8:00 pm
Harmony and Healing: Adult focused Harp Workshop - Therapeutic, Ensemble, and Improvisational Techniques
~Vivienne/Kristal
Wed July 3 6:30-8:00 pm
Expressive Interpretation Workshop Explore techniques for adding emotion and expression to harp performances, emphasizing dynamics and phrasing.
TBD
Monday August 5 6:30-8:00 pm
Ensemble Evolution: Crafting Your Chamber Music Skills for Harmonious Performance.
~Dan Levitan
Tuesday August 6 6:30-8:00 pm
The Art of Levers: A Journey Through Classical Harp Music pt 2 Dive deep into technical mastery with excerpts from solo, orchestral, and ensemble repertoire
~Amelia
Tuesday August 7 6:30-8:00 pm
Harp Olympiad: Mastering Technical Feats From scales to harmonics, conquer the most daunting passages with expert guidance and practice strategies.
~Lynn TBD
Thursday August 8 6:30-8:00 pm
Harmony and Chord Progressions: Dive into the theory of harmony and chord progressions, teaching harpists how to navigate and incorporate them into their playing.
~Joel TBD
SPECIAL WORKSHOP- Mandatory Workshop
Bay Area Harp Society, Harps Etc and Bay Area Harp Academy
Sunday July 28th Harps Etc Walnut Creek 2:00-6:00
$50
Orchestral Odyssey: Elevating Your Harp Skills with a Crash Course in Ensemble Playing
Orchestra and Ensemble Skills
Bringing harpists together for a collaborative ensemble experience, rehearsing and performing ensemble pieces.
AHS Grant Funded
Additional Descriptions and About Your Instructor
Lynn Taffin Presents: "Harp Olympiad: Mastering Technical”
Prepare for the ultimate harp challenge at the Harp Olympiad! Dive deep into technical mastery with excerpts from solo, orchestral, and ensemble repertoire. From scales to harmonics, conquer the most daunting passages with expert guidance and practice strategies. Suitable for all levels, this seminar offers a gateway to mastering larger works. Join us for a chance to achieve a perfect 10.0 in performance!
Lynn Taffin is http://www.lynntaffin.com/
Lynn graduated Summa cum Laude from Boston University with Lucile Lawrence and earned her master's degree from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music with Marcella DeCray. Her studies in Paris with Marie-Claire Jamet were granted by a prestigious Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship. She studied at the Salzedo School under Alice Chalifoux and began studies with a protégé of Marcel Grandjany. She maintains an active free-lance career in the Bay Area while continuing international concert work through her network of colleagues around the world.Lynn has been actively involved in teaching in the Bay Area for 20 years. As a member of the American Harp Society Bay Area Chapter she chaired Workshops for the National Conference held in San Francisco in 2006. She has previously served on the board of the Bay Area Section of ASTA and is a trained adjudicator for the Certificate of Merit Program of the Music Teachers’ Association of California. She keeps international ties through the World Harp Congress and the Association Internationale des Harpistes et Amis de la Harpe.
Dr. Vincent Pierce Presents: "Electrifying the Strings: Exploring the World of Electric and Electroacoustic Harp." This workshop is your gateway to a dynamic and innovative realm where traditional harp meets cutting-edge technology. In this electrifying experience, participants will dive into the exciting world of electric and electroacoustic harp, discovering new sounds, textures, and possibilities for musical expression. From exploring different amplification techniques to experimenting with effects pedals and loop stations, each session will offer hands-on opportunities to push the boundaries of traditional harp playing.Whether you're a classical purist curious about exploring new sonic frontiers or an avant-garde artist seeking to expand your sonic palette, this workshop provides a supportive and creative environment for exploration and experimentation.Join us as we harness the power of electricity to electrify the strings and unlock a world of musical innovation and inspiration
Dr. Vincent Pierce https://www.vincentpierceharpist.com/
Dr. Vincent Pierce is a multi-faceted musician, equally at home performing orchestral, chamber and solo music, teaching students of all ages, and performing for events of all types throughout the Bay Area. Dr. Pierce is also a composer, writing works for harp in various settings. He is also passionate about electroacoustic harp, a new medium that offers expansive creative possibilities.
Dr. Pierce holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baylor University, where he began studies as a clarinetist. Upon beginning harp lessons at 19, he quickly fell in love with the instrument and went on to receive a Master of Music and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in harp performance from the University of Texas at Austin
Amelia Romano Presents: Classical Levers Pt 1 and P2
Unlock the beauty of classical music on the lever harp with our workshop focusing on lever technique! Join us for a comprehensive session designed to teach you the art of using levers effectively to navigate the rich repertoire of classical music. From understanding lever mechanics to practical application in classical pieces, this workshop will provide you with the skills and confidence to tackle intricate passages and masterpieces. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player looking to refine your technique, this workshop welcomes all levels. Come explore the world of classical music on the harp and unleash your musical potential!
Amelia Romano https://www.ameliaromano.com/
A concertizing lever harpist, programming classical re-imaginations alongside original works, Amelia received her master’s in classical lever harp performance at San Francisco State University under the tutelage of Karen Gottlieb - retired second harpist of the San Francisco Symphony.Her latest album, “Levers Engaged: Classical Works Re-imaged for Harp,'' and sheet music collection, “Classical Re-imaginations," present the instrument as a valid voice in classical music. A composer, arranger and trailblazer in the lever harp world, she is equally at home writing Latin America inspired works for solo harp as she is adapting classical pieces for chamber collaborations.Amelia offers virtual workshops and seminars centered around best lever-shifting practices and tools for adapting and performing chromatic works on the instrument.
Kristal Schwartz: Musical Magic: Unleashing Joy, you'll embark on a transformative journey into the realm of musical arrangement and therapeutic playing. This class is designed to empower you to create your own unique tunes while exploring therapeutic techniques to enhance your playing experience. Through interactive lessons and guided exercises, you'll uncover the art of arranging melodies, harmonies, and rhythms to express your musical vision. Additionally, you'll learn how to harness the therapeutic power of music to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and cultivate a deeper connection with your instrument. Join us and unlock the joy of musical creation and expression!
Harping together Q&A Session:This workshop offers invaluable insights into balancing academic commitments with musical pursuits and maintaining a healthy schedule for harpists. Geared towards parents, it provides practical guidance and tips on managing the demands of both academics and music effectively. Through an open forum format, parents can freely ask questions, share experiences, and seek advice from experienced harp instructors and fellow parents.
The overarching goal is to establish a supportive network among harpist parents, empowering them with the knowledge and tools necessary to actively engage in and enhance their child's musical journey. By fostering a strong partnership between parents, teachers, and students, this workshop strives to ensure a positive and enriching experience for young harpists.
Slaying the Procrastination Dragon
Embark on a journey to conquer the procrastination dragon and unlock your potential for efficient and productive harp practice. In this transformative workshop, you'll delve into the art of time management and goal-setting strategies specifically tailored for harpists. Discover how to slay distractions, overcome procrastination, and cultivate a focused mindset to maximize your practice sessions.Through practical techniques and insightful guidance, you'll learn how to structure your practice routine effectively, set achievable goals, and maintain momentum in your musical journey. Whether you're a beginner seeking to establish consistent practice habits or a seasoned player aiming to elevate your skills, this workshop equips you with the tools and mindset to unleash your full potential as a harpist. Say goodbye to procrastination and hello to productive practice sessions that propel you towards your musical goals.
Harmony and Healing - Adult Harp Workshop -
Welcome to "Harmony and Healing: Adult Harp Workshop," where the power of music meets the journey of personal growth. This unique class is designed to explore therapeutic, ensemble, and improvisational techniques, creating a holistic approach to harp playing for adults of all levels.In this supportive and nurturing environment, participants will embark on a transformative musical journey. Through therapeutic techniques, you'll learn to harness the healing properties of music to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance overall well-being. Dive into ensemble playing, where you'll experience the joy of making music together and develop essential skills in collaboration and musical communication. Additionally, explore the art of improvisation, unlocking your creativity and spontaneity as you learn to express yourself freely through music. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced harpist, this workshop offers a space for self-discovery, growth, and musical exploration. Join us for "Harmony and Healing," and let the magic of the harp enrich your life in unexpected and meaningful ways.
Joel - Harmony and Chord Progressions: Dive into the theory of harmony and chord progressions, teaching harpists how to navigate and incorporate them into their playing.
Hannah Ewell Expressive Interpretation Workshop
Welcome to the Expressive Interpretation Workshop, where we delve into the art of infusing emotion and expression into your harp performances. In this dynamic and immersive class, participants will explore a range of techniques aimed at elevating their musical interpretation, with a focus on dynamics and phrasing.Throughout the workshop, you'll learn how to breathe life into your music, creating nuanced and captivating performances that resonate deeply with audiences. From subtle shifts in dynamics to thoughtful phrasing choices, each technique will empower you to convey your unique artistic voice through your harp playing.Whether you're a seasoned performer looking to refine your expressive abilities or a beginner eager to unlock the secrets of emotive playing, this workshop offers a supportive and inspiring environment for growth and exploration.Join us as we embark on a journey of musical discovery, where every note becomes a canvas for expression, and every performance is infused with heartfelt emotion
Dan Levitan Ensemble Evolution: Crafting Your Chamber Music Skills for Harmonious Performance. Welcome to "Ensemble Evolution: Crafting Your Chamber Music Skills for Harmonious Performance." This workshop is your gateway to the world of chamber music, where collaboration and communication are key to creating truly harmonious performances.In this immersive experience, participants will delve into the art of ensemble playing, learning essential skills and techniques to elevate their chamber music performances. From understanding the intricacies of balance and blend to mastering the art of musical dialogue, each session will provide valuable insights and practical tools for crafting unforgettable performances.Whether you're a seasoned chamber musician looking to refine your skills or a newcomer eager to explore the joys of ensemble playing, this workshop offers a supportive and enriching environment for growth and discovery.Join us on a journey of musical evolution as we unlock the secrets of harmonious ensemble performance and celebrate the transformative power of chamber music.
Dan Levitan https://harpmandan.com/ Dan Levitan, virtuoso solo harpist and orchestral harpist with three Bay Area orchestras is interested in sharing his music and talents with you. He is an experienced musician/performer with an extensive repertoire. Dan is the Principal Harpist for the Marin Symphony, Symphony Silicon Valley, and the Ballet San Jose Orchestra. He is the consummate professional, having performed with the San Francisco Symphony, the San Francisco Opera Orchestra, and the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra. Levitan is the principal harpist with the Marin Symphony (since 1984), Santa Rosa Symphony, Symphony Silicon Valley and San Jose Ballet orchestra.In addition to having performed with San Jose Symphony as principal harpist from 1978 until its closure in 2002, Dan has performed with the San Francisco Symphony, Opera, and Ballet orchestras, and is sought after as a soloist with orchestras, choirs, and other ensembles throughout Northern California.Born and educated in Philadelphia, Mr. Levitan received bachelor degrees in Music Performance and in Music Education from Temple University, both magna cum laude, and was named "Most Promising Musician" on graduation. He has studied with Margarita Montanaro, Co-Principal Harpist with the Philadelphia Orchestra, internationally acclaimed harpists Susann McDonald and Susanna Mildonian, and well-known San Francisco Bay Area harpists Anne Adams, Marcella DeCray, and the late Phyllis Schlomovitz.
Musical Magic: Unleashing Joy - Discover the Art of Arranging Your Own Tunes and Therapeutic Playing Techniques
~Kristal
Wednesday June 5, 7:00-8:00 pm
Harping Together: Empowering Parents to Nurture Musical Growth in Children - Part 1: Interactive Q&A Session on Zoom/Hybrid
~Kristal
Thursday June 6, 6:30-8:00 pm
Slaying the Procrastination Dragon: Unlocking Efficient and Productive Harp Practice - Mastering Time Management and Goal-Setting Strategies
~Kristal
Friday June 7th, 6:30-8:00 pm
The Art of Levers: A Journey Through Classical Harp Music pt 1 Unlock the beauty of classical music on the lever harp with our workshop focusing on lever technique!
~Amelia
Monday July 1, 6:30-8:00 pm
Electrifying the Strings: Exploring the World of Electric and Electroacoustic Harp
~Vincent
Tuesday July 2 6:30-8:00 pm
Harmony and Healing: Adult focused Harp Workshop - Therapeutic, Ensemble, and Improvisational Techniques
~Vivienne/Kristal
Wed July 3 6:30-8:00 pm
Expressive Interpretation Workshop Explore techniques for adding emotion and expression to harp performances, emphasizing dynamics and phrasing.
TBD
Monday August 5 6:30-8:00 pm
Ensemble Evolution: Crafting Your Chamber Music Skills for Harmonious Performance.
~Dan Levitan
Tuesday August 6 6:30-8:00 pm
The Art of Levers: A Journey Through Classical Harp Music pt 2 Dive deep into technical mastery with excerpts from solo, orchestral, and ensemble repertoire
~Amelia
Tuesday August 7 6:30-8:00 pm
Harp Olympiad: Mastering Technical Feats From scales to harmonics, conquer the most daunting passages with expert guidance and practice strategies.
~Lynn TBD
Thursday August 8 6:30-8:00 pm
Harmony and Chord Progressions: Dive into the theory of harmony and chord progressions, teaching harpists how to navigate and incorporate them into their playing.
~Joel TBD
SPECIAL WORKSHOP- Mandatory Workshop
Bay Area Harp Society, Harps Etc and Bay Area Harp Academy
Sunday July 28th Harps Etc Walnut Creek 2:00-6:00
$50
Orchestral Odyssey: Elevating Your Harp Skills with a Crash Course in Ensemble Playing
Orchestra and Ensemble Skills
Bringing harpists together for a collaborative ensemble experience, rehearsing and performing ensemble pieces.
AHS Grant Funded
Additional Descriptions and About Your Instructor
Lynn Taffin Presents: "Harp Olympiad: Mastering Technical”
Prepare for the ultimate harp challenge at the Harp Olympiad! Dive deep into technical mastery with excerpts from solo, orchestral, and ensemble repertoire. From scales to harmonics, conquer the most daunting passages with expert guidance and practice strategies. Suitable for all levels, this seminar offers a gateway to mastering larger works. Join us for a chance to achieve a perfect 10.0 in performance!
Lynn Taffin is http://www.lynntaffin.com/
Lynn graduated Summa cum Laude from Boston University with Lucile Lawrence and earned her master's degree from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music with Marcella DeCray. Her studies in Paris with Marie-Claire Jamet were granted by a prestigious Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship. She studied at the Salzedo School under Alice Chalifoux and began studies with a protégé of Marcel Grandjany. She maintains an active free-lance career in the Bay Area while continuing international concert work through her network of colleagues around the world.Lynn has been actively involved in teaching in the Bay Area for 20 years. As a member of the American Harp Society Bay Area Chapter she chaired Workshops for the National Conference held in San Francisco in 2006. She has previously served on the board of the Bay Area Section of ASTA and is a trained adjudicator for the Certificate of Merit Program of the Music Teachers’ Association of California. She keeps international ties through the World Harp Congress and the Association Internationale des Harpistes et Amis de la Harpe.
Dr. Vincent Pierce Presents: "Electrifying the Strings: Exploring the World of Electric and Electroacoustic Harp." This workshop is your gateway to a dynamic and innovative realm where traditional harp meets cutting-edge technology. In this electrifying experience, participants will dive into the exciting world of electric and electroacoustic harp, discovering new sounds, textures, and possibilities for musical expression. From exploring different amplification techniques to experimenting with effects pedals and loop stations, each session will offer hands-on opportunities to push the boundaries of traditional harp playing.Whether you're a classical purist curious about exploring new sonic frontiers or an avant-garde artist seeking to expand your sonic palette, this workshop provides a supportive and creative environment for exploration and experimentation.Join us as we harness the power of electricity to electrify the strings and unlock a world of musical innovation and inspiration
Dr. Vincent Pierce https://www.vincentpierceharpist.com/
Dr. Vincent Pierce is a multi-faceted musician, equally at home performing orchestral, chamber and solo music, teaching students of all ages, and performing for events of all types throughout the Bay Area. Dr. Pierce is also a composer, writing works for harp in various settings. He is also passionate about electroacoustic harp, a new medium that offers expansive creative possibilities.
Dr. Pierce holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baylor University, where he began studies as a clarinetist. Upon beginning harp lessons at 19, he quickly fell in love with the instrument and went on to receive a Master of Music and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in harp performance from the University of Texas at Austin
Amelia Romano Presents: Classical Levers Pt 1 and P2
Unlock the beauty of classical music on the lever harp with our workshop focusing on lever technique! Join us for a comprehensive session designed to teach you the art of using levers effectively to navigate the rich repertoire of classical music. From understanding lever mechanics to practical application in classical pieces, this workshop will provide you with the skills and confidence to tackle intricate passages and masterpieces. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player looking to refine your technique, this workshop welcomes all levels. Come explore the world of classical music on the harp and unleash your musical potential!
Amelia Romano https://www.ameliaromano.com/
A concertizing lever harpist, programming classical re-imaginations alongside original works, Amelia received her master’s in classical lever harp performance at San Francisco State University under the tutelage of Karen Gottlieb - retired second harpist of the San Francisco Symphony.Her latest album, “Levers Engaged: Classical Works Re-imaged for Harp,'' and sheet music collection, “Classical Re-imaginations," present the instrument as a valid voice in classical music. A composer, arranger and trailblazer in the lever harp world, she is equally at home writing Latin America inspired works for solo harp as she is adapting classical pieces for chamber collaborations.Amelia offers virtual workshops and seminars centered around best lever-shifting practices and tools for adapting and performing chromatic works on the instrument.
Kristal Schwartz: Musical Magic: Unleashing Joy, you'll embark on a transformative journey into the realm of musical arrangement and therapeutic playing. This class is designed to empower you to create your own unique tunes while exploring therapeutic techniques to enhance your playing experience. Through interactive lessons and guided exercises, you'll uncover the art of arranging melodies, harmonies, and rhythms to express your musical vision. Additionally, you'll learn how to harness the therapeutic power of music to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and cultivate a deeper connection with your instrument. Join us and unlock the joy of musical creation and expression!
Harping together Q&A Session:This workshop offers invaluable insights into balancing academic commitments with musical pursuits and maintaining a healthy schedule for harpists. Geared towards parents, it provides practical guidance and tips on managing the demands of both academics and music effectively. Through an open forum format, parents can freely ask questions, share experiences, and seek advice from experienced harp instructors and fellow parents.
The overarching goal is to establish a supportive network among harpist parents, empowering them with the knowledge and tools necessary to actively engage in and enhance their child's musical journey. By fostering a strong partnership between parents, teachers, and students, this workshop strives to ensure a positive and enriching experience for young harpists.
Slaying the Procrastination Dragon
Embark on a journey to conquer the procrastination dragon and unlock your potential for efficient and productive harp practice. In this transformative workshop, you'll delve into the art of time management and goal-setting strategies specifically tailored for harpists. Discover how to slay distractions, overcome procrastination, and cultivate a focused mindset to maximize your practice sessions.Through practical techniques and insightful guidance, you'll learn how to structure your practice routine effectively, set achievable goals, and maintain momentum in your musical journey. Whether you're a beginner seeking to establish consistent practice habits or a seasoned player aiming to elevate your skills, this workshop equips you with the tools and mindset to unleash your full potential as a harpist. Say goodbye to procrastination and hello to productive practice sessions that propel you towards your musical goals.
Harmony and Healing - Adult Harp Workshop -
Welcome to "Harmony and Healing: Adult Harp Workshop," where the power of music meets the journey of personal growth. This unique class is designed to explore therapeutic, ensemble, and improvisational techniques, creating a holistic approach to harp playing for adults of all levels.In this supportive and nurturing environment, participants will embark on a transformative musical journey. Through therapeutic techniques, you'll learn to harness the healing properties of music to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance overall well-being. Dive into ensemble playing, where you'll experience the joy of making music together and develop essential skills in collaboration and musical communication. Additionally, explore the art of improvisation, unlocking your creativity and spontaneity as you learn to express yourself freely through music. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced harpist, this workshop offers a space for self-discovery, growth, and musical exploration. Join us for "Harmony and Healing," and let the magic of the harp enrich your life in unexpected and meaningful ways.
Joel - Harmony and Chord Progressions: Dive into the theory of harmony and chord progressions, teaching harpists how to navigate and incorporate them into their playing.
Hannah Ewell Expressive Interpretation Workshop
Welcome to the Expressive Interpretation Workshop, where we delve into the art of infusing emotion and expression into your harp performances. In this dynamic and immersive class, participants will explore a range of techniques aimed at elevating their musical interpretation, with a focus on dynamics and phrasing.Throughout the workshop, you'll learn how to breathe life into your music, creating nuanced and captivating performances that resonate deeply with audiences. From subtle shifts in dynamics to thoughtful phrasing choices, each technique will empower you to convey your unique artistic voice through your harp playing.Whether you're a seasoned performer looking to refine your expressive abilities or a beginner eager to unlock the secrets of emotive playing, this workshop offers a supportive and inspiring environment for growth and exploration.Join us as we embark on a journey of musical discovery, where every note becomes a canvas for expression, and every performance is infused with heartfelt emotion
Dan Levitan Ensemble Evolution: Crafting Your Chamber Music Skills for Harmonious Performance. Welcome to "Ensemble Evolution: Crafting Your Chamber Music Skills for Harmonious Performance." This workshop is your gateway to the world of chamber music, where collaboration and communication are key to creating truly harmonious performances.In this immersive experience, participants will delve into the art of ensemble playing, learning essential skills and techniques to elevate their chamber music performances. From understanding the intricacies of balance and blend to mastering the art of musical dialogue, each session will provide valuable insights and practical tools for crafting unforgettable performances.Whether you're a seasoned chamber musician looking to refine your skills or a newcomer eager to explore the joys of ensemble playing, this workshop offers a supportive and enriching environment for growth and discovery.Join us on a journey of musical evolution as we unlock the secrets of harmonious ensemble performance and celebrate the transformative power of chamber music.
Dan Levitan https://harpmandan.com/ Dan Levitan, virtuoso solo harpist and orchestral harpist with three Bay Area orchestras is interested in sharing his music and talents with you. He is an experienced musician/performer with an extensive repertoire. Dan is the Principal Harpist for the Marin Symphony, Symphony Silicon Valley, and the Ballet San Jose Orchestra. He is the consummate professional, having performed with the San Francisco Symphony, the San Francisco Opera Orchestra, and the San Francisco Ballet Orchestra. Levitan is the principal harpist with the Marin Symphony (since 1984), Santa Rosa Symphony, Symphony Silicon Valley and San Jose Ballet orchestra.In addition to having performed with San Jose Symphony as principal harpist from 1978 until its closure in 2002, Dan has performed with the San Francisco Symphony, Opera, and Ballet orchestras, and is sought after as a soloist with orchestras, choirs, and other ensembles throughout Northern California.Born and educated in Philadelphia, Mr. Levitan received bachelor degrees in Music Performance and in Music Education from Temple University, both magna cum laude, and was named "Most Promising Musician" on graduation. He has studied with Margarita Montanaro, Co-Principal Harpist with the Philadelphia Orchestra, internationally acclaimed harpists Susann McDonald and Susanna Mildonian, and well-known San Francisco Bay Area harpists Anne Adams, Marcella DeCray, and the late Phyllis Schlomovitz.
