Spirit of Harp

This attractive and well-presented anthology is comprised of short compositions in a range of styles and incorporating jazz, Latin, classical and folk idioms. lt also appeals to a broad church of performers, as the book caters for pedal, lever and single action harps (which is still a popular folk instrument in Southern Germany, Austria and Northern Italy). By turns expressive, sweetly nostalgic and upbeat, these pieces are excellent material for freshening programmes, for encores and for when something extra special is called for. On the other hand, I recently played The Dragonfly on a memorial programme, for which it was beautifully suited. I find it is also excellent instructional material, and your reasonably advanced students (grades 5 and 6+) will love this introduction to jazzy techniques (such as a pedal slides and kicks). Monika Stadler has also made it possible to download a recording of each composition from her website for free, a great tool for those new to the style. Additionally, each composition has a colourful explanation of it’s conception and imagery. An excellent addition to any harpist’s library. Highly recommended.