Yolanda | Harp
Yolanda is a harp student who enjoys playing pop songs and slow, dreamy songs. She is currently preparing for her grade 2 exam and her participation at various student concerts has helped improve her confidence performing music in front of others. Here is what Yolanda has to say about her harp journey so far.
What kind of music (songs or exercises) do you enjoy playing on the harp and why?
My favorite pieces to play on the harp are 'Fly me to the moon', 'Howl's moving castle theme song' and a variety of dainty little pieces. A current piece I'm working on is Revierie which I'm fond of, because of its soothing, dreamy melody which I feel fits the vibe of the harp. I enjoy playing popular songs that I like or dreamy, quaint pieces that fits the harp's aesthetic because it puts me in a better mood or makes me sleepy.
What made you start learning the harp and what do you enjoy about playing it?
It started ever since I was a small girl, I was just captivated by the instrument. Just the poise it held and the elegant sound of the instrument made me feel like I was in an enchanted forest, the ones that you would find in Disney. My dream of playing the harp finally came true in Mid 2022, however my previous harp teacher was in the city, being too far away we found a closer teacher, which was Music Maker Academy, and I am very happy with this movement. I think the sound of the harp is like a siren drawing many to it.
What do you find are the easiest and hardest things about learning harp?
Easiest thing about playing harp is playing the dynamics and fingering, however the hardest factor for me personally, is remembering how a piece goes and rhythm.
What is your favourite thing about harp lessons?
Pong the cat keeps me motivated during lessons, however my favorite part of doing the harp lessons is improving my technique on the harp and learning to play songs that advance my skill.
What are some goals or pieces that you are currently working on?
As I mentioned earlier, I'm working on a piece called Reverie, which in French means Daydream (I can thank my harp teacher for that!). Another piece that I'm just polishing up is Seesaw from AMEB grade 2 which is quite bouncy. My goal for harp this year is to complete some AMEB harp exams and potentially perform harp for my school.
What is your proudest moment or achievement as a harpist?
I think my most memorable moment as a harpist was performing at the Christmas performance last year. I was extremely proud of myself when I performed my piece without mistakes in front of a big crowd, which surprised me. I think this performance helped build my confidence to perform in a crowd and overall helped me grow as a musician.
