I’m Heather Downie, the founder of How To Harp and Principal Scottish Harp Tutor at The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. I’ve recorded albums and performed all over the world…..but I discovered early in my career that teaching is my passion. It brings me so much joy and fulfilment. I LOVE it!!
I want to help you become a better harpist, not simply teach you tunes. I want you to learn in new, exciting and successful ways. I want you to develop better technique and sound production so everything you play sounds fantastic. I want you to be inspired. But most of all I want you to feel confident and happy in yourself and your harping.
First Class (Hons) Bachelor of Arts in Scottish Music
Postgraduate Diploma (with distinction) in Scottish Music Performance
Master of Education in Learning & Teaching in the Arts
Fellow of the Higher Education Academy
"Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
I’ve tried almost every other online harp teacher and school out there and How to Harp is the only one I shall continue to support and learn from.
Thank you Heather, you’re an absolute gem! Keep up the excellent and inspiring work!"
“The Technique Bank is the crown jewel of How to Harp and the resource that distinguishes it from other music learning platforms. All the technique courses are excellent.
I have learned more in these first 6 months of How to Harp than I've learned in the 2 prior years, and that's Heather's influence.”
“ Heather is an amazing teacher. Perfection personified. By simply being herself she takes us on a journey through a course completely naturally like a wonderfully patient friend, always willing us on with lots of encouragement and care.
I feel happy, cared for, secure and never alone in all things Harp.”
Students love the amount of choice in the membership material and find it easy to focus on what they want or need. But, some need a little more direction, especially beginners. For these people we offer the Learning Pathways.
The Beginner Learning Pathway is designed to help you grow and develop in your harping, in a clear and structured way, but is also tailored to you personally.
Beginner Sessions are perfect for complete beginners or those looking to brush up on their harp foundations.
NEW Post-Beginner Sessions start in Jan 2024!!
Traditional Scottish Strathspey.
Disney Classic from 'The Muppet Christmas Carol', written by Paul Williams.
From 'Kung Fu Panda'. Written by Hans Zimmer and John Powell.
Traditional Scottish Lullaby.
Classic Christmas Song, written by Hugh Martin and Ralph Blane.
One of Heather's original compositions, written for William's grandparents 60th Wedding Anniversary.
Classic Traditional Scottish Melody.
Pop ballad by Lewis Capaldi.
Classic Scottish March, written by Hamish Henderson.
Often credited to Johann Sebastian Bach, but this is debated so sometimes 'Anon'.
Traditional Scottish Jig, feat Terra Burgoyne & Mairi Kidd.
Burns Song written by Robert Burns, feat. Alex Downie - Heather's Dad!!
Traditional Scottish Slow Jig.
Beautiful Hymn, written by John Newton.
(The Blind Harper) Traditional Scottish Slow Air.
Traditional Scottish Puirt Strathspey, feat Ainsley Hamill.
From '9 to 5'. Written by Dolly Parton.
Theme from 'Amelie'. Written by Yann Tiersen.
Traditional Scottish Reel, feat Janet Downie - Heather's Mum!!
Beautiful Hymn, written by John Newton.
Traditional Scottish Broadside Ballad.
Ambient Proto-Minimalist Classic, written by Eric Satie.
From 'Schindler's List'. Written by John Williams.
Traditional Scottish Lullaby.
From 'Twilight'. Written by Christina Perri and David Hodges.
Traditional Scottish Lullaby.
'Someone You Loved'
Beginner Arrangement"Oogway Ascends' (from Kung Fu Panda)
Intermediate Arrangement'Gymnopedie No. 1'
Advanced Arrangement
"It is a full-service teaching program, with a wonderful balance of learning opportunities as well as exposure to other music professionals. I love the Pod system for learning and getting support.
I couldn't be happier being a member of How to Harp. I love learning with Heather! Her teaching style is very thorough, yet it all feels casual and not at all intimidating."
"It’s great to be part of a community & the knowledge you are not alone in the journey.
I am 77 & have some arthritis challenges with my hands, so I’m not looking for perfection, just the joy that comes from learning & playing.
I like the variety offered & that I can work at my own pace & work on what I want when I want."
"Harp music is no niche, sometimes I feel that I'm pursuing something that no one even knows about. It feels really good to meet so many different people who are pushing things forward.
Heather is very warm, accepting and welcoming. All in all, How to Harp is great and I'd recommend it to anyone interested in learning the harp."
There are so many live events included as part of the membership. All are available for replay if you can’t make a session live.
Inspirational performances.
Amazing workshops from guest tutors.
Interesting presentations and interviews.
Q&As, practice together sessions, parties and hang outs.
We have it all covered at How To Harp!! A lively, supportive and fun community is at the core of the membership.
Hear all about the experiences of some of our current members.
What do they like? What does the How To Harp Membership mean to them?
At How To Harp, we're not just about teaching harp; we're about building a warm, supportive family of fellow harp enthusiasts. As a member, you're not just gaining access to live sessions, lessons and resources; you're stepping into a community that believes in the power of connection.
Picture this: a private community bustling with passionate harpists from around the globe, all eager to share their experiences, triumphs, and support each other if times get tough. There are lots of fun groups to join too, like the arrangement club and even a harp-themed book club!
A smaller, close-knit group where bonds deepen, and connections flourish. Led by fellow learners, these pods meet regularly, providing a space for personalised support, shared victories, and the joy of learning together.
Being surrounded by like-minded individuals isn't just about becoming a better harpist; it's about becoming a happier, more confident one. Together, we celebrate each other's successes, navigate challenges, and create a space where the melody of encouragement and camaraderie is as important as the music we make.
“Satisfaction, joy, accomplishment, always there whenever I need it. I love it!
I can get to know my harp and how to play it better.
Keep up the good work! I am so happy you have made this. Thank you!"
“Love the camaraderie and the feeling of community. The mix of technique and beginner lessons and goal setting is so valuable. This is an excellent resource compared to what else is available.
I also think we are getting a tremendous amount for our monthly $ compared to some other groups. Great bang for the $$.”"
“It makes me feel that learning the harp is actually possible and not as daunting as I had anticipated.
Heather’s style is great. I feel at ease when watching and trying things out.
Keep doing what you are doing."
The price is going up to £44 per month on Jan 1st. Sign up now for HUGE DISCOUNTS before it is too late!!
AND, these are locked in lifetime prices!! Pick one of the options below, and pay that price FOREVER!!
