Creativity Pathway
Are you ready to find your voice and experiment on the harp? Then this is the pathway for you! You will be encouraged to improvise, compose, and approach your harping with more playfulness as you explore more freedom in your playing. This pathway is best suited for early intermediate players and above.
If you are a beginner, you are still welcome to follow the pathway but you might find some techniques and suggested tune levels challenging, so you may need to adapt or skip some lessons. However, many parts are accessible to beginners and can help you develop faster and feel more inspired by exploring creativity early in your harp journey. Plus, you might just want to dive in because creativity is fun and brings us joy!
1. Improvisation & Extended Technique
Develop expressive skills and explore new sounds, fostering a unique and dynamic approach to music. By embracing improvisation and extended techniques, you'll gain confidence and discover innovative ways to make your harp playing truly your own.
1A. Introduction to Improvisation Masterclass
Heather with Katherine - follow along with all the suggestions and tips.
1B. Harmonics in Context
This two-part lesson helps you practice the beautiful 'bell like' sound of a harmonic on the harp.
1C. Extended Harp Techniques Through Improvisation
Explore harmonics, keyboard technique, damping and more through guided improvisations.
1D. Etouffée
Also known as flat hand playing in the Left Hand. This two-part series helps you master this harp specific technique.
1E. An Introduction to Jazz Standards
Ben introduces you to the first steps of arranging a jazz standard - including playing the melody, interpreting the harmony of chord charts, improvising, and more.
1F. Learn these tunes that use extended technique
Christ Child’s Lullaby - Beginner & Intermediate use right hand harmonics, Advanced uses double harmonics in left hand
Gymnopedie - Intermediate & Advanced uses switch dampening
Morning Mood - Advanced uses etouffee and harmonics
Pure imagination - Intermediate & Advanced uses harmonics
2. Ornamentation
Ornamentation adds flair and personal expression to your music. In this section, you’ll learn a wide range of techniques to embellish melodies, making your harp playing uniquely yours.
2A. Ornamentation
Learn how to decorate your melodies with this in depth exploration of harp ornamentation.
2B. Adding Ornamentation Masterclass
Heather with Christina - follow along with all the suggestions and tips.
2C. Oran do MhacLeoid Dun Bheagan Ornamentation
Take a look at some ornamentation options and how you can make your own version of this song.
2E. Add Ornaments Part 1
Add ornaments to a tune you have learnt, or choose one from the Tune bank to learn and add ornaments too.
2F. Add Ornaments Part 2
Apply your knowledge by adding ornaments to the a piece you have arranged.
3. Arranging Music
Adapt and personalise existing pieces by learning the basics of arranging.. This section shows you how to modify harmonies, rhythms, and textures, allowing your style & individuality to shine through in any piece.
3A. The Art of Arranging
Ailie shares some of her arranging tools to make your arrangements more interesting.
3B. Baloo Baleerie Vocal Accompaniment
See Heather's process of creating a vocal accompaniment for the chorus.
3C. Arranging Ideas Masterclass 1
Heather with Jen - follow along with all the suggestions and tips. (Left hand tucking & lever changes also covered)
3D. Arranging Ideas Masterclass 2
Heather with Kristen - follow along with all the suggestions and tips.
3E. MuseScore Course
Great course to help you with notation if you need it. A huge resource!
3F. Create your Own Version
Create your own version of any tune from the tune bank by combining elements of the beginner, intermediate and advanced versions.
3G. Join the Harpy Arranging Club
Participate in the community by arranging a tune in this fun club.
3H. Behind the Scenes
Some of the techniques used by Heather to create her electronic-inspired version.
4. Composition
Start creating your own music with foundational composition techniques. From simple melodies to full pieces, you’ll explore how to craft compositions that reflect your personal style and musical journey.
4A. Compose Yourself
Unlock your inner composer and get those creative juices flowing!
4C. Create your own piece
Compose your own piece of music, then share it with a friend!