Helena | Harp
After three years of lessons, Helena the harpist is working towards her grade 3 exam. She has learned a lot of pieces over the last three years, some of which she has loved .. and some she hasn’t enjoyed as much! Read more about Helena’s harp journey below!
What year did Helena start harp lessons in, and what got her interested in the harp?
In 2020, Helena and her family went on a holiday to Pemberton. At one corner of the main street was sitting an old man, who was playing a lap harp. It sounded so beautiful, we couldn't move and stood there for long time watching him playing. Since that time, Helena decided she wants to play harp as well, just because she love the sound of it.
What age was she when she started?
7 years old
What is Helena's favourite piece that she has learnt, and why?
She has really loved quite a few pieces, but her most favourite is Solace as it just sounds really lovely.
What does Helena usually have to learn and prepare for her harp exams?
In the past Helena has done Comprehensive exams meaning she had to prepare technical work (lots of scales, arpeggios and technical exercises), 3 pieces, sight-reading, general knowledge and aural. For her grade 3 exam she is doing the Repertoire exam meaning she only has to prepare 4 pieces.
What type of harp does Helena play?
The harp she is playing is Camac Hermine 34 string lever harp.
What does Helena find are the easiest and hardest things about learning harp?
The hardest thing would be practising every day, especially as Eliza pushes her very hard! Sometimes it is hard to see progress even when we practise diligently.
What is Helena's favourite thing about her harp lessons?
Helena is always eager to go to your house for lessons, because she finds your lessons are quiet, relaxing and happy … and of course she loves to see your cats too!
What are some goals that Helena is currently working on?
Helena will be doing her grade 3 exam in July. At the moment we are working on her 4 pieces and going into a lot more depth than usual. This includes playing up to tempo (lots of practice with metronome!), paying attention to all the dynamics marked in the pieces as they make a piece a lot more interesting to listen to!
What is Helena's proudest moment or achievement as a harpist?
Helena is generally a shy girl who doesn't like to show herself in front of others. She is proudest of the beautiful sound that comes out of her finger tips.
