How To Harp
Retreat 2025
Hi How To Harp Members!!
The team & I have been working hard for months putting this all together and I’m soooo excited to be bringing you all the details!! On this page you will find all the information for the first ever in-person How To Harp Retreat. I’ve organised lots of harp events before and attended hundreds, so I’ve used my experience to make this the best harp event ever!!
This is an exclusive event for How To Harp members only. This event is about all of us coming together, learning and playing together, making connections and lifelong friends.
Bringing partners, family or friends is of course allowed. Unlike most other harp events they will be included in all meals, social events, performances…..the only thing they won’t be doing is attending all the harp related workshops!! Plus, there is ‘Partners, Family & Friends Trip’ just for them!!
Heather x
Launch Party & Q+A
Watch the launch party where I talk you through everything the retreat has to offer. Just like the membership, there is A LOT!! But, we have also remembered to include some social and relaxing time, as even if we want to, we can’t play harp all day every day!!
There is a Q+A session at the end of the party. But, if you have a question that isn’t answered, you have lots of ways to ask it. Pop a question in the community and tag the person you want to answer it. Ask in your pod. Or send an email to [email protected] - we’ll get back to you in no time!!
Latest Updates!! BIG NEWS!! Two New Additions!!
There are two new amazing people who are now part of the Retreat!! Woo!!!!!!
Bill Taylor will be joining us as the third harp tutor!! Bill researches, performs, teaches and records the ancient harp music of Ireland, Scotland and Wales. He is one of very few players interpreting these repertoires using lyres, gut-strung medieval harps, renaissance harps with buzzing bray pins and wire-strung clarsachs.
Bill is a teacher-in-residence with Ardival Harps, Strathpeffer, in the Highlands of Scotland. For many years he has taught at the Edinburgh International Harp Festival in the UK and the Amherst Early Music Festival in the US, and he is often invited to lead workshops and to perform in Britain, Europe and the United States. His teaching covers a wide range of subjects: arranging for small harps, using fingernail technique to play wire-strung harps and bray harps, and exploring music from medieval, renaissance and traditional sources. He has made over 30 recordings as a soloist and with several different ensembles.
Don’t play him at dominos though, he WILL beat you!!
And as if that wasn’t enough…
We will also be joined by Jakez François, the President of Camac Harps since 2000. He will be available to advise on all things harp and will be leading the harp maintenance workshop. As well as running Camac Harps, he is also a noted jazz harpist and composer. After studying the pedal harp, he returned to the Celtic harp, playing, teaching, composing, and competing.
He started working with Joël Garnier at Camac Harps in 1988, where he learned to regulate harps, and tested the harps being made. After a few months Jakez was working full-time and doing more marketing and commercial work. Two years later he and Garnier became partners, with the promise that François would take over after Garnier's retirement. They worked together for 12 years, Garnier teaching everything he knew about harpmaking.
"My life as a harpmaker is really beyond my dreams. Working on a harp, from taking pen in hand to make the very first diagram, to the very last stage - organising concerts and commissioning new pieces - is, for a harpist, an incredible thrill each day.”
Having such a legend in the harp world as part of the retreat is such a honour!! WOW!!
Embark on a musical journey at the How To Harp Retreat 2025 in scenic Stirling, Scotland. From January 27th to 31st, join harpists from all over the world for the greatest harp event ever, with renowned tutors Heather Downie and Ben Creighton Griffiths. Join us for an unforgettable musical adventure!
Extend your experience with optional add-on days from January 24th to 26th where you can experience even more of Scotland’s culture, history and beauty!
Let's Do This!
People, Activities, Events & Details
A snapshot of what to expect at the Retreat.
Heather Downie
Small group workshops with Heather. Creator of How To Harp & principal Scottish Harp Tutor at The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Your chance to to learn with her in-person after all this time working with her online!
Ben Creighton Griffiths
Small group workshops with Ben. One of the top harp performers and teachers in the world. Many harpists have been involved at How To Harp, but Ben was our first pick for the retreat. We are so lucky to have him!
Ensemble Piece
A harp ensemble piece written specially for this event. Parts for every level of player. Practice sessions. Final version recorded, filmed, mixed and edited professionally. Such a great memento of the event!
Stirling Court Hotel
A haven of Scottish hospitality situated in 330 acres of beautiful grounds within the University of Stirling. Beautiful peaceful location on the bonnie banks of Airthrey Loch, on the outskirts of the historical city of Stirling.
Food with a View
All food is included. All dietary requirements met. Scottish breakfasts. Buffet lunches. Amazing dinners. Snacks, tea & coffee. Scottish food and drink tasting. And, a view of the Wallace Monument from the conservatory!
Historic Stirling City
Stirling is known for historic attractions and spectacular scenery and will celebrate its 900th anniversary in 2024. Stirling Castle, built on a vast volcanic rock, dominates the city skyline and is a symbol of national pride.
Traditional Ceilidh
The welcome event for the retreat will be a dinner followed by a traditional Scottish ceilidh. Informal traditional Scottish dancing with a live folk duo, creating a joyous and inclusive atmosphere. Dancing optional!
Burns Supper
The closing event will be a traditional Burns Supper, celebrating Scotland’s bard Robert Burns’ life and work. A bagpiper will ‘pipe in the haggis’ then Heather’s Dad will give the ‘Address to the Haggis’. Haggis eating optional, haha!
Harp Sessions
An informal 'harp jam’ every night. A Scottish ‘session’ is where a group of musicians meet in a pub to play a selection of music together, with solo pieces such as slow airs, ballads and songs too. Tune book provided in advance!
Camac Harps Exhibition
A huge selection of harps to see and play. A massive selection of harp accessories & sheet music too! Expert advice from Elen Vining, a harpist herself, who has run Telynau Vining Harps in Cardiff for over 20 years!
Tutor Performances
An intimate private concert featuring performances from Heather & Ben. Lever harp. Pedal harp. Scottish music. Songs. Modern pieces. Pop. Classical. Jazz. And much more! This concert will have it all!
Member Performances
This concert will feature…..you?! Whether you are a seasoned performer or a first timer, this a safe and supportive space to play a short set, or even one piece. Or get inspired by watching others play!
Varied Workshops
A tech workshop where you can see effects used with an electric harp, and play it! A harp maintenance workshop to learn how to care for your harp. And a 'Working Towards Your Goals' session!
Day One
Mon 27th January 2025
- Registration & Check In
- Afternoon Tea Meet and Greet
- Break
- Welcome Dinner and Ceilidh
- Harp Session
Day Two
Tues 28th January 2025
- Breakfast
- Harp Workshop with Heather/Ben
- Tea/Coffee Break
- Working Towards Your Goals Session
- Lunch
- Break
- Harp Workshop with Heather/Ben (tutors swap groups)
- Tea/Coffee Break
- Ensemble Rehearsal
- Break
- Dinner
- Tutor Concert
- Harp Session
Day Three
Wed 29th January 2025
- Breakfast
- Harp Workshop with Heather/Ben
- Tea/Coffee Break
- Harp Maintenance Workshop
- Lunch
- Break
- Harp Workshop with Heather/Ben (tutors swap groups)
- Tea/Coffee Break
- Ensemble Rehearsal
- Break
- Dinner
- How To Harp Members Concert
- Harp Session
*Partners, family & friends trip takes place on this day, leaving after breakfast and being back for dinner.
Day Four
Thurs 30th January 2025
- Breakfast
- Harp Workshop with Heather/Ben
- Tea/Coffee Break
- Tech Workshop on using effects with harp
- Lunch
- Break
- Harp Workshop with Heather/Ben (tutors swap groups)
- Tea/Coffee Break
- Ensemble Recording
- Break
- Closing Party and Burn’s Supper
- Harp Session
Day Five
Fri 31st January 2025
- Breakfast
- Check out
- Goodbyes
*1-2-1 Lessons slots available with Heather & Ben throughout the day
More about the venue...
Stirling Court Hotel
Nestled in the beautiful and extensive University of Stirling grounds, the Stirling Court Hotel is a wonderful location for 2025’s How To Harp Retreat. With Airthrey Loch on the doorstep and impressive views of the Wallace Monument and the Ochil Hills as a backdrop, this is an epic setting for the retreat.
Cosy en-suite bedrooms offer a comfortable, home-from-home experience with all of the facilities you’d expect from a quality hotel.
There is complimentary WiFi throughout the hotel. Each room has tea and coffee making facilities, flat screen TV, hairdryer, telephone, trouser press and a well-lit desk area.
You’ll also have access to an Olympic swimming pool & a state-of-the-art gym including a fitness suite and strength & conditioning areas. There is also a lovely well-stocked bar if that is more your style!
There is lots of parking, and it is very close to Stirling train station and so getting there is easy.
Another highlight is the wonderful trails and paths around the grounds. Step out of the doors of the hotel to join the 2.5km path that surrounds the loch!!
Standard Room
Single, Double, Twin & Accessible Rooms Available.
Conservatory
An amazing space with spectacular views of the Wallace Monument. We will gather, eat and play in this space!!
Uni Grounds
A beautiful and quintessentially Scottish location.
Airthrey Loch
The loch is home to an abundance of wildlife including swans, ducks and frogs.
Stirling City
Although the venue has a real countryside feel, it is just 2 miles from the city centre!!
Harp Rental -
There will be a large selection of harps to rent for the event. We will match you with a suitable harp depending on your needs.
1-2-1 Lessons -
In-person 1-2-1 lessons will Heather & Ben will be available on the weekends before and after the main event. These slots will be bookable via an online booking system which will be opened nearer the time of the retreat.
A message from Heather on bringing a partner, family member or friend.....
Partner, Family & Friends Info
Your people are more than welcome at the Retreat!
It always bothers me how excluded they often are at other harp events so I’ve included them in a great deal of the main retreat.
AND, I’ve arranged a ‘Partners, Family & Friends Trip’ just for them on Wed 29th January 2025!!
This trip leaves after breakfast and they’ll all be back in time for dinner.
Heather x
Click on the pics for everything on offer for the partners, friends and family…..
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Tea/Coffee Breaks with all dietary requirements met.
Using only the best in quality Scottish ingredients, the team of chefs are creating a menu tailored to the retreat.
Packed lunches are available for those who want to go off exploring!!
Meet & Greet
Welcome Dinner & Ceilidh
Tutor Concert
How To Harp Members Concert
Closing Party & Burn’s Supper
If any of the partners, friends or family play an instrument, they can bring it along and get involved in the session.
We can also provide a variety of instruments including -
Guitar - Bass - Cello - Keyboard - Melodica - Shruti Box - Omnichord - Percussion - Kalimba - Kazoo
This optional add-on takes place on Wed 29th January 2025.
This trip leaves after breakfast, and returns in plenty of time for dinner and the evening events.
All travel, food and admission prices are included.
There are two stops on the trip giving a real taste of the history and culture of Scotland.
An immersive award-winning experience where you witness a digitally re-created version of the battle. Find out how warriors, pages, knights and civilians became involved in the conflict.
Discover more about the two opposing kings, whose tactics in 1314 changed the path of Scotland’s history, forever. Follow in the footsteps of Robert the Bruce in the memorial park and see the spot where he raised his royal standard.
A cotton mill for 180 years, Deanston was transformed into a distillery in the 1960's and has been distilling whisky using traditional methods ever since. Experience the sights, smells and sounds of a true working distillery.
It lies close to the town of Doune, known for its manufacture of ‘doune pistols’. The first shot fired in the American war of independence allegedly came from one. 14th-century Doune Castle is 1 mile away, featured in Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Game of Thrones and Outlander.
Main Retreat - Mon 27th to Fri 31st Jan 2025
Available Packages
Single Occupancy
Double Hotel Room - All Food x 1 - All Events x 1
Double Occupancy
Double Hotel Room - All Food x 2 - All Events x 1 - All Events (excluding harp playing events) x 1
This is the package to book if you are bringing a non-harping partner, family member or friend.
Shared Room
Twin Hotel Room (shared with another How To Harp member) - All Food x 1 - All Events x 1
If you have another member you’d like to share with, let us know and we will put you together. If you don’t, we will match you with another How To Harp member who has picked this package. Please note, there are is a limited number of twin rooms in the hotel so numbers for this package are limited.
Events Only Rate
All Food (excluding breakfast) x 1 - All Events x 1
Book this package if you are local harpist and want to attend everything, but do not need a room. Please note this package does not include accommodation or breakfast.
Extras
1-2-1 Lessons
These can be booked and paid for directly when the online booking system is made available - Harps available for 1-2-1s if needed (no additional charge)
Partners, Family & Friends Trip
Travel - Lunch - Admission to Battle of Bannockburn Experience - Admission to Deanston Distillery and Whisky Tasting (3 varieties) - Snacks/Tea/Coffee
Harp Rental
Monday to Thursday
Optional Add-On Days
January 24th - 26th 2025
Taking place the weekend before the main event, these days focus on experiencing Scotland’s culture, history and beauty.
This is also your opportunity to book a 1-2-1 with Heather.
What to expect…..
Student Performances
Heather’s harp students from The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland will perform an intimate concert. From degree level, right up to masters students, these are the the very best young harpists in Scotland!!
Glasgow Trip
The cultural hub of Scotland, famed for its Victorian and art nouveau architecture. Glasgow's major cultural institutions enjoy international reputations, as does its thriving, vibrant, inclusive and varied music scene.
Conservatoire Tour
The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland is a world-leading conservatoire of music, drama, dance, production and film, located in Glasgow. Heather will give you the inside track on her workplace, especially the harp department!
Willow Tea Rooms
Charles Rennie Mackintosh is Scotlands most celebrated architect and designer. We will have afternoon tea in the best surviving example of a tea room designed by him, also known as his most complete interior design.
Celtic Connections
Glasgow's annual folk, roots and world music festival celebrates its connections to cultures across the globe. Every year over 2000 musicians bring the city to life. Experience it all at a specially chosen performance.
Stirling Castle
One of Scotland's grandest castles due to its imposing position and impressive architecture. A guided tour where you will discover the people and events which have shaped its past – and Scotland’s history.
Day One
Fri 24th January 2025
- Registration & Check In
- Afternoon Tea Meet and Greet
- Break
- Welcome Dinner
- Royal Conservatoire of Scotland Student Concert
- Drinks
*1-2-1 lessons slots available throughout the day
Day Two
Sat 25th January 2025
- Breakfast
- Break
- Lunch
- Travel to Glasgow (40-50 mins)
- Free Time in Glasgow
- Royal Conservatoire of Scotland Tour from Heather
- Afternoon Tea in Willow Tea Rooms
- Concert at Celtic Connections
- Post-Concert Hot Snack
- Travel Back to Stirling
* 1-2-1 lesson slots available in the morning
Day Three
Sun 26th January 2025
- Breakfast
- Travel To Stirling Castle (10-15 mins)
- Tour of Stirling Castle
- Lunch in Stirling
- Free Time in Stirling
- Return to Hotel when you are ready (Travel Provided)
- Dinner
*1-2-1 lesson slots available in the afternoon
**Breakfast also provided on the morning of Mon 27th Jan before the main retreat starts
Add-on Days - Fri 24th to Sun 26th Jan 2025
Available Packages
Single Occupancy
Double Hotel Room - All Food x 1 - All Events x 1
Double Occupancy
Double Hotel Room - All Food x 2 - All Events x 2
This is the add-on package to book if you are bringing a partner, family member or friend.
Shared Room
Twin Hotel Room (shared with another How To Harp member) - All Food x 1 - All Events x 1
If you have another member you’d like to share with, let us know and we will put you together. If you don’t, we will match you with another How To Harp member who has picked this package. Please note, there are is a limited number of twin rooms in the hotel so numbers for this add-on package are limited.
Events Only Rate
All Food (excluding breakfast) x 1 - All Events x 1
Book this package if you are local harpist and want to attend the add-on days, but do not need a room. Please note this package does not include accommodation or breakfast.
First off, thank you soooo much for being a member of How To Harp. It was always a dream of mine to connect with more harpists from all over the world and help them live their harp dreams. I couldn’t afford a harp for a long time and we couldn’t afford lessons when I started. So providing harpists with a way to learn, grow and get inspired for an affordable monthly price was my dream, and I can’t believe I’m living it!!
I’m keeping the costs as low as possible while providing an amazing experience with comfortable accommodation, great food, fresh playing spaces and a picturesque location. I’m offering payment plans and giving members a year to pay off the retreat. I’m doing everything I can to make it accessible to as many harpists as possible.
I’d love you to join us.
It’ll be an experience you’ll remember forever!!
Heather x
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you will have music in advance. The ensemble piece is being put together by Ben and Heather in collaboration. Music and learning resources will be available to you through the How To Harp membership, many months in advance.
The sessions will include a selection of music from the How To Harp tune bank, and some lead sheets which will be provided in advance. This will help you learn some tunes which you can join in with at the session. These sessions are informal play togethers, so you don’t have to learn anything specific. You can join in with a simple left hand, play the melody or just listen and take it all in. If you would like to share a piece not included in the resources provided by How To Harp, you can! But please remember these are sessions, not performances and should you choose to share a piece others will be encouraged to join in.
Most of our harps available for hire at the retreat are Camac models. Unfortunately, due to our limited supply we cannot guarantee a particular model for any booking. We will do our best to match harps similar in size and string type to what you are used to playing.
Camac will have a full exhibition of harps at the retreat, which will be available to purchase. These transactions are between you and Telynau Vining. How To Harp is not involved in any selling/purchasing of harps at the retreat.
Camac will have an excellent selection of harp music, strings and harp accessories available to purchase through Telynau Vining at the retreat. These purchases are through Telynau Vining and How To Harp is not involved in any of these purchases.
A true taste of Scotland! We are striving to bring you an exciting experience not just through harping, but through the events and catering. All dietary requirements can be catered for, simply give us details on your booking form. Lunch, dinner, teas/coffee and snacks are included in all bookings. (Breakfast is not included in the Events Only package but all other meals are included)
Because the retreat is very bespoke, each booking really is individual. This is why you will complete a booking form and then be sent an invoice clearly detailing your payment. You can chose to pay in one lump sum, or split your payment over the months leading up to the retreat. If you would like us to create a personalised payment plan over your specified number of months we can do this for you, just email us at [email protected]. Please note - all payment plans must be complete, with retreat paid in full by January 5th 2025. Payment will be taken using the details we have stored for your How To Harp subscription. If you would like to use a different payment method, please email us at [email protected].
How To Harp is not responsible for your transport to and from the retreat. However, as we move closer to the retreat dates and we have more information about where people are traveling form and when they are arriving, we may be able to offer shared transport from major cities.
Service animals are allowed in all areas, workshops and events throughout the entire main retreat and add on days.
The hotel does allow pet dogs. However, pet dogs are not allowed in dining areas, the harp exhibition or at any workshops. We all know Heather is a dog lover - if she could have dogs everywhere she would! But please consider other participants if you are thinking about bringing a dog. Any damage or cleaning costs incurred due to any dog at the retreat will be the responsibility of the dog owner and How To Harp will not be liable.
We have a limited number of twin rooms available at the retreat. If you wish to share with a friend in How To Harp, you can let us know on your booking form and we will do everything we can to honour these requests. If for any reason we cannot match you with your friend, we will let you know as soon as possible. We can also match you with a member if you have no preference of who you share a room with.
*Please note, double occupancy bookings for the main retreat are for one harpist taking part in the retreat, and one partner, family member or friend NOT taking part in the harp actives during the retreat.
January in Scotland is cold. There is no escaping it. We chose January for our retreat to help keep the costs down for participants, and so we could take advantage of Celtic Connections being run at the same time.
However, Scotland isn’t the Antarctic, it is just a bit chilly! The average temperature for January is 5°C (41°F), but we are at the end of the month when it is usually heating up a bit. Also, January in Scotland is very beautiful! We will mostly be inside, but bring warm weather clothing, appropriate footwear and a good jacket, and you’ll be grand!
If booking accommodation, all food is included. If booking event only options, breakfast is not included in the booking.
Yes. If you opt for the event only package, accommodation and breakfast is not included and must be arranged by yourself.
This is an in-person event and no parts of the retreat will be available on zoom.
We cannot offer car rentals through How To Harp. However, there are a number of reputable car rental companies which can supply cars from the major cities (including Stirling) and we can supply you with contact details if you require them.
Yes, there are excellent train links in Scotland to the major cities. Glasgow and Edinburgh have direct trains to Stirling, as does London! The trains also travel North from Stirling if you are considering travelling before or after the retreat. We are here to help you every step of the way and will try to help you find the best transport options for you.
Glasgow and Edinburgh are international airports and are both just under an hour from Stirling by car. Both have excellent public transport links to Stirling.
London airports are also an excellent option, with trains to Stirling taking around 5 hours.
However, as we get closer to the event and have a better idea of when and where people are arriving from, we may be able to offer help with transport from the airports. Please note this will be an extra charge and is not something we can guarantee.
Yes, we can upgrade the booking right up until the 1st December 2024. Just email [email protected] and we will sort this out for you.