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MARCH ~ Team Work 

Playing in orchestras is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work. I had my first experience while still at school in Wales, facilitated by a conductor who gave me the chance to join the local town orchestra. I remember being surrounded by that rich, full sound, and knowing with complete certainty that ‘this’ was what I wanted to be doing. Little did I know that it would lead me to Carnegie Hall and the Hollywood Bowl; tours to Japan and Europe: T.V. and radio broadcasts and best of all, a 20+ year partnership with Marie Leenhardt in the harp section for the Hallé Orchestra. 

 

I enjoy coaching harpists as they start their journeys towards orchestral life. It is always fulfilling to share my knowledge and give advice. A  recent highlight was preparing harpists in the City of Birmingham Youth Orchestra as they tackled Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique; one of the most challenging parts in the repertoire, but one they approached with gusto. Bravo! 👏

It was a pleasure to visit St. Mary’s Music School in Edinburgh for assessments and a Masterclass. The school have recently purchased a pedal harp for the first time, which will enable their pupils to progress towards orchestral playing. Great to see a young pupil working my new pedal harp exercises already, and always lovely to get such positive feedback. Thank you! 

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This month, I have my own set of concerts with Manchester Camerata, BBC Philharmonic, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic and Manchester Concert Orchestra. From Richard Strauss to Lord of the Rings: from Gounod to a new Concerto; there is never a shortage of notes to prepare for this harpist who began her journey on the stage of the Great Hall in Aberystwyth. 

February ~ Action 

The orchestral season is in full flow again, and I am enjoying preparing for the month ahead. I have a feast of works by Strauss, Lutoslawski, Debussy, Gounod and Shostakovich. 

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My teaching studio is busy with students who zoom in from all over the UK, Europe, the USA and early morning calls to New Zealand.

 

I am also delighted to be continuing my teaching of students at Sheffield and Durham Universities, and from the Junior RNCM. It’s wonderful to have such variety: from complete beginners to advanced level. The appetite for learning the harp has never been so strong. My Power Hours are thriving and it’s wonderful to feel that I am helping others reach their goals. Contact me on eiralynnjones@gmail.com for more information on what happens in a Power Hour! 

January ~ Contemplation 

2022 was a year of new projects and exciting life changes. 

2023 will see these ventures coming to fruition and finally a chance to embrace my new creative spaces. 

 

The Year of the Rabbit is also a significant one for me and I look forward to what it represents in Chinese astrology: contemplation, calmness and balance. 

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