Building on the fundamentals of melody and rhythm, the Intermediate class will learn tunes mainly from the Scottish and Irish traditions (along with some treasures from Cape Breton!)  In our repertoire, we will touch on stylistic interpretation, variation, ornamentation, and musical forms in a variety of keys, modes and rhythms.  We will increase our multi-tasking abilities at the harp: counting, fingering, brackets and placing – with phrasing and musicality of course!

While creating arrangements for our tunes, we will explore chord inversions and substitutions, choosing the “right” chords and enjoying the “wrong” ones, reinforcing accompaniment patterns and left hand skills, composing interesting bass lines, using syncopation, damping and muffling to augment rhythm and drive in dance tunes.

The Intermediate Class will explore the rationale behind some key technical exercises, increasing fluidity and relaxation, finger independence, speed and agility, volume and tone. 

We will also continue building ensemble skills to play collaboratively with others (accompanying singers, or other instruments), covering useful practice habits, performance preparation and comfort.  Alys will close the week with an “audio tour”, introducing some of the many and varied worlds of the harp today. Where will you take the harp from here? Find your own stylistic goals and vision!

It is suggested that the Intermediate level course is right for students familiar with the following: tuning their own harp; crossing over/under; placing in advance; and playing RH tunes with simple LH accompaniment.  Some knowledge of keys, chords, and time signatures is recommended (concepts of music literacy may be reviewed, as appropriate to the group).  All materials will be taught by rote, however the ability to read both bass and treble clef, and willingness to learn by ear is an asset.  Learners will be provided with written materials to aid memory.  Where possible, there will be less- and more- challenging options. Bring your harp, sense of humour, love of music – and leave with a treasure trove of new repertoire and ideas!

Through these programs, Alys studied with many of the most celebrated Celtic harp players of today.  Prior to her specialization in Celtic music, Alys developed her classical background studying both pedal and lever harps. Alys is a special teacher whose commitment and enthusiasm inspires others to achieve the goals they hold closest to their hearts – while keeping the journey fun.