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!
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.
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.
