Focus areas

The Youth Harp Program (in-person only)

The 2025 Somerset Youth Harp Program

A specialty program tailored specifically to young harpers ages 8-17

We know there are plenty of music camps out there in the summer but we feel that our harp conference is a unique environment for the young player at a very reasonable cost. Register your child for a VIP ticket ($595) and yourself as their Non-Harping Companion ($125). When you get our ticket confirmation email, reply and tell us to enroll your child in the Youth Harp Program. Easy! Keep reading to see how you and your child can be involved in the larger Somerset community.

11 Years and Counting

We continue to build on the incredibly successful program we created in 2013

We offer a cozy, small program within our conference for young people to make friends and play harp together that is accessible, fun, and challenging.
opportunity to sample the full smorgasbord of other workshops that only Somerset offers.
We have the excitement of harp players coming from all over the country.
Rub shoulders with in an incredible diversity of harps and music
Get inspired at the daily concerts with some of the world’s top players
We welcome young students of all levels
Nia Pierce will lead students through classes and play-alongs
Parts will be created to suit different levels of experience (beginner, intermediate, and advanced).
In-Person only
July 17-20 The Westin Princeton at Forrestal Village (Festival Roomblock Rate Available)

YHP Itinerary

Itinerary for the Youth Harp Program: What You’ll Do

Registration: Parents should register their child for a Full Festival ticket which will give their child All-Access to all the content on the Somerset Member Area until October 31. Students are expected to attend all 4 days “live” on festival weekend, July 17-20. Because enrollment in this program is capped, the child must be registered in advance. All workshops will be recorded for later replay on Somerset Online.

Thursday Pre-YHP Extra (Optional) 1:00-2:30pm:

Attend any of the workshops offered during this time slot and get inspired before the meet and greet!

Thursday Meet & Greet 3-4:30pm:

This is an opportunity for the students to meet each other and connect with Nia who will use conversation, games, and song to facilitate this process. Course guidelines and expectations will be laid out.

Friday and Saturday

1st Workshop 9:30-11am learning tunes & songs on Friday and arranging and practicing repertoire on Saturday

Lunchtime until 1pm:
Enjoy the Friday Lunchtime Concert: Bedside Harp Ensemble
Perform in the Saturday Lunchtime Concert with the entire Youth Harp Program Ensemble!

Visit our in-person Exhibit Hall –yay– and try out harps!
Go to the Harp Tastings on Friday and Saturday. That’s super-fun.
Grab some lunch at our Grab-and-Go stations

2nd Workshop 1-2:30pm: learning tunes & songs with Nia

3rd Workshop 3-4:30pm: your choice of any of the Somerset workshops. Check the daily schedules to see what’s available in this time slot. Remember that the festival workshops will be recorded so you can watch and rewatch them until October 31!

Dinner Break: That’s on your own!

Concert: 7:00pm concert tickets are included in your registration.

Special Events after the concert: we have regular scheduled special events after the concert which are open to all festival registrants. Additionally, youth harp program participants might want to organize their own harp circles or other get-togethers in this time-slot. Sometimes at this point in the day, bedtime understandably beckons!

Sunday:

Morning Workshop 9:30-11am: you’ll have a chat session in this final workshop of the weekend.

Sunday concert at noon: tickets to all concerts are included in your registration.

Questions? Need more information? Call or email Maureen Buscareno at 201-304-7628.

Who Should Come?

The youth harp program is open to lever and pedal harp players at all levels. Young harp players 8-17 years old will be brought together in a supportive environment to work on both group and individual playing skills. If you want to connect with other players your age and have a fun time learning new harp skills and playing with your new-found friends in a harp ensemble, this program is for you! The ages listed here are suggestions, not edicts. Really experienced younger players might fit in just as well. Any questions, just email Maureen for guidance.

Somerset’s 2025 Director of the Youth Harp Program: Nia Pierce

We Welcome Back Nia Pierce

Nia Pierce is back at Somerset leading the Youth Harp Program.

Nia’s Somerset journey began 11 years ago when she performed with the inaugural Somerset youth ensemble as a high school student, under the direction of her harp teacher, Mrs. Robbin Gordon-Cartier. She recently graduated from The College of New Jersey, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Music Education with a focus on the harp. During her time in college, Nia received numerous awards and recognitions, including the Governor’s Award in Arts and Education, the NAACP Freedom Fund Award for Arts Education and Activism, and Spectacular Magazine’s Emerging Leader of the Year.

Nia is passionate about sharing her love of music with others and has worked as a music teacher in the East Orange School District. During that time, she directed the elementary music and harp program at Ecole Toussaint L’ouverture. Nia also mentors young harpists and musicians at her old high school and in other programs, and takes pride in being able to give back to the community that helped shape her into the person she is today.

Currently, Nia works at Princeton University where she advises and mentors undergraduate students. In the fall, she will pursue a Master of Arts in Education Policy at Columbia University’s Teachers College. With her degree, Nia hopes to combine her passion for education, advocacy, and music to help inspire the next generation of leaders.

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Girl playing her harp during the Youth Harp Program

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Youth Harp Concert 2023

Nia Pierce getting students ready to perform for Alfredo Rolando Ortiz as a special surprise to honor him at his Sunday Concert in 2023

Nia Pierce and the youth harp program

Youth Harp participants playing in the lunchtime concert

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Students Waiting to perform for Alfredo Rolando Ortiz

YHP performing for Alfredo Rolando Ortiz

Youth Harp Program students having fun with their harp friends

CEUs for Theapeutic Harpists

Check with your organization to see which of our workshops will fulfill your course requirements.

celtic focus

Add-On: Harpers’ Escape with Gráinne Hambly, William Jackson, Debbie Brewin-Wilson, and Kathy DeAngelo | Type: Hands-on | Level: Beg.-Adv| When: 7/16/2026 9:30am – 5:00pm Focus on ‘learning by ear’ with this full-day Harpers’ Escape immersion with Grainne Hambly, William Jackson, Debbie Brewin-Wilson and Kathy DeAngelo. The goal is to really learn the piece before you leave! How? Guidance. Modeling. Repetition. You will have the music so well embedded in your ears and in your hands by the end of the day. There are 3 workshop groups for Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced playing levels. Everyone learns the same group tune and then different level-specific tunes in smaller groups. Everyone then plays together in one big “Use it or Lose it” session at the end of the day. Participants get advance access to the audio files of the day’s tunes to facilitate ‘learning by ear,’ which they can download and listen to weeks before the Escape. https://somersetharpfest.com/harpers-escape/

Celtic Service – Debbie Brewin-Wilson | Type: Lecture | Level: Any | When: 7/19/2026 8:00am-9:00am

Debbie is our official pastor in residence! Join her for her Sunday morning worship service and make “a joyful noise”.

Express Yourself, Insights Into Playing a Traditional Scottish Air – Rachel Clemente | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/19/2026 9:30am-11:00am

Come and learn techniques to enhance the beauty of a traditional Scottish melody! We’ll dive into the nuts and bolts of how to listen to the melody, experiment with dynamic range, and create harmonic and melodic balance between your hands.

Irish/Scottish Session and Sing Along led by Gráinne Hambly, William Jackson, and Kathy DeAngelo – Event | Type: Session | Level: Any | When: 7/18/2026 9:30pm-10:30pm

Irish/Scottish Session and Sing Along led by Gráinne Hambly, William Jackson, Debbie Brewin-Wilson and Kathy DeAngelo

Manx Magic: Music & Culture from the Isle of Man – Rachel Hair | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/18/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm
The Isle of Man may be the smallest Celtic nation, but its music and stories are mighty. Rachel, an honorary Manxie after 18 years of island visits, a Manx husband, and her role as official Manx harp tutor, invites you to journey with her through live music, stories, and film as you explore Manx culture, music and language and pick up some irresistible traditional tunes from this magical island in the Irish Sea.

Joyful Jigs – Rachel Hair | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int/Adv | When: 7/16/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm
Don’t jigs sound just perfect on the harp? They’re Rachel’s favourite dance tunes to play, and in this feel-good class she’ll share some jigs that are not only fun and satisfying to learn but sound great on the harp. We’ll start by getting the right hand dancing comfortably around the strings, before adding in left-hand ideas to build joyful, harp-friendly arrangements. Before you know it, your hands will be dancing and your jigs will be bouncing with sparkle.

Scottish Laments and Airs – Rachel Hair | Type: Hands-on | Level: Beg/Int | When: 7/17/2026 9:30am-11:00am
Slow, expressive, and deeply moving, laments and airs hold some of the most beautiful melodies in the Scottish tradition. In this class, Rachel will teach tunes that sing on the harp, taking time to let the music breathe while working on phrasing, ornamentation, and simple left-hand ideas that support the melody without getting in the way. This is a chance to slow down, listen deeply, and discover how to make these haunting tunes truly speak on the harp.

Starting out Scottish Tunes: Scottish for Starters – Rachel Hair | Type: Hands-on | Level: Beg | When: 7/16/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm
Just beginning your Scottish harp journey? This class is the perfect place to start. Rachel will share some of the best-loved Scottish tunes that are well regarded in the tradition and fit beautifully on the harp. These are the kinds of melodies that, should you ever play them in Scotland, make people smile and say, “Aye! I ken that one!” (Translation: Ah yes, I know that one!) Along the way, you’ll build confidence, learn harp-friendly arrangements, and come away with tunes you’ll enjoy playing again and again.

Rachel’s Top Tunes – Rachel Hair | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int/Adv | When: 7/18/2026 9:30am-11:00am
Come and learn the tunes Rachel can’t stop playing right now. In this class, she’ll share a selection of favorite tunes, (maybe old, maybe new!), with arrangements that showcase her own personal playing style. Expect harp-friendly arrangements, musical ideas you can take away and use elsewhere and plenty of inspiration as you explore what makes these tunes special. A great chance to get inside Rachel’s musical world and add some new favourites to your own repertoire.

Irish Hymns for Harp – Gráinne Hambly | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/17/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm
In this workshop, we will focus on melodies from the religious music repertoire in Ireland. We will learn about the historical context and why there are fewer religious songs than you might expect. We will also learn some beautiful melodies, which you can play at church or for any other occasion.

Arranging Irish Traditional Dance Music – Gráinne Hambly | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int/Adv | When: 7/18/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm
Discover creative ways to arrange Traditional Irish dance tunes! We’ll look at different approaches and ideas you can use to create arrangements of Irish dance tunes. Using examples from well-known tunes, you’ll learn strategies to help bring your own arrangements to life and making your music shine.

Irish Lullabies – Gráinne Hambly | Type: Hands-on | Level: Beg. | When: 7/18/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm
Easy Irish lullabies, enjoyable and relaxing to play for beginning harpers.

Newly Composed Irish Tunes – Gráinne Hambly | Type: Hands-on | Level: Adv. | When: 7/17/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm
In this workshop we will explore tunes by some contemporary composers in the Irish musical tradition – ie modern-day musicians composing tunes in a traditional style. It will not include tunes by harper composers, but we will learn the melody and add left hand to a couple of tunes where the composer has written the melody line.

Arranging Pipe and Fiddle Tunes for Harp – William Jackson | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int | When: 7/17/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm

Get some useful ideas on how to expand your Scottish repertoire, and how to select tunes from non-harp instrumental collections. Creating your own arrangements.

Who was Rory Dall ? – William Jackson | Type: Hands-on | Level: Beg/Int | When: 7/17/2026 9:30am-11:00am

A look at the music attributed to the 17th Century harpers Rory Dall O’Catháin, and also Rory Dall Morrison, who was the last harper to Clan MacLeod. Various approaches to arranging pieces which were composed on and originally for wire harp, in a style that might work on any instrument.

Music of the Irish Harping Tradition from the Lifetime of Turlough O’Carolan – Anne Marie O’Farrell | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int. | When: 7/17/2026 9:30am-11:00am This workshop includes tunes not only composed by Carolan himself, but also tunes popular in Ireland at the time, in particular some which were published in Dublin, in John and William Neal’s Collection of 1724 ‘A Collection of the Most Celebrated Irish Tunes’. This is for intermediate level harpists, it will involve a very limited amount of lever changing, and will be taught in a mix of by ear and from sheet music.

Mates with Modes – Anne Marie O’Farrell | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/16/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm

delve into the wonderful sounds of the modes in folk music, using Irish melodies, and come away knowing your Lydian from your Locrian! In this workshop you’ll learn how to distinguish the modes from each other through learning Irish tunes, many from the oral singing tradition.

beginner track

Beginner’s Basics – Debbie Brewin-Wilson | Type: Hands-on | Level: Nov.-Beg | When: 7/17/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm
New harpers or those who need a refresher should take this workshop so Debbie can guide you through the basics of hand position, placing, and playing. You’ll get lots of hands-on pointers and exercises to help you grow comfortable with your instrument and learn to play more fluidly.

Beginner’s Chord Basics – Debbie Brewin-Wilson | Type: Hands-on | Level: Nov.-Beg | When: 7/17/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm
If you’re having trouble getting your hands to cooperate with forming chord shapes, Debbie will demystify chord structures and reinforce the harp fundamentals you’ll need to become more fluent in playing chords. She’ll show you how to play your favorite tunes using a “lead sheet” , which is just music that displays a chord letter rather than using the bass clef for the left hand.

Beginner’s Coordination Basics – Debbie Brewin-Wilson | Type: Hands-on | Level: Nov.-Beg | When: 7/18/2026 9:30am-11:00am
Feeling that you can play one hand or the other but not both at the same time? This is common for beginning players. Debbie will review some of the basics to lay the groundwork, then focus on pointers, to help you get both hands working together. She’ll teach a tune to reinforce good playing technique with both hands, while reviewing chord structures at the same time.

Beginning by Ear – Debbie Brewin-Wilson | Type: Hands-on | Level: Nov.-Beg | When: 7/19/2026 9:30am-11:00am
Whether you’re a beginning player who can’t read music but want to expand your repertoire or you’re “paper trained” and want to learn to play by ear, this workshop will help you sort through the noise to identify skills to help make learning by ear easier. We’ll walk through some basics, break down a tune, and practice using an app to support the process.

Introduction to the Llanera Harp and Traditional Styles – Nicolas Castañeda Lozano | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/16/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm
This session offers an introduction to the llanera harp and its role within llanera music. Participants will explore the basic characteristics of the instrument, cultural context, and general performance practices. The workshop focuses on one traditional llanera style, studying its rhythmic patterns, melodic language, and typical accompaniment techniques. The session provides a solid foundation for understanding the llanera harp tradition and its musical aesthetics.

And More!

Historical

Go For Baroque – Rhett Barnwell | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/16/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm

This workshop takes an in-depth look at this glorious period of musical composition in which great composers wrote a large amount of music for every instrument except the harp. We will explore the reasons for this omission, and examine the relatively small body of music that actually was written for the harp during this time. More importantly, we will examine the wealth of transcriptions for lever and pedal harp that now make it possible for us to perform all the Baroque music we could ever want. Performance practice, trills, and other fun things will be discussed as we seek to bring this beautiful music alive on modern lever harp. All levels, lecture and hands-on.

The Joy of Bach – Rhett Barnwell | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/17/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm

An informative and sometimes humorous approach to the harp music of Johann Sebastian Bach, or rather, the lack thereof. Find out why this powdered-wigged master of polyphony seems to have written nothing for the harp, and what has been done to correct this grievous omission. We will explore the life, music and spirituality of Bach, often called the “Fifth Evangelist” and look at clever transcriptions of some of his greatest pieces which can now be readily enjoyed on the harp. All levels, lecture and hands on, using the text, “Basically Bach” (available for optional purchase at the festival desk).

Renaissance Ball led by Nancy Hurrell – Event | Type: Dance | Level: Any | When: 7/17/2026 9:30pm-10:30pm

Renaissance Harp Ensemble – Nancy Hurrell | Type: Hands-on | Level: Beg/Int | When: 7/18/2026 9:30am-11:00am
Join a Renaissance harp ensemble and play music from the 15 th -17th Centuries arranged in multi-level harp parts. These performance ready ensemble arrangements have been performed by Nancy’s students in the Brandeis University Early Music Ensemble. This is a low-stress, fun, group playing experience. Advanced beginners and intermediate level; sight-reading is necessary.

Mystical Songs of the Middle Ages (harp and singing) – Nancy Hurrell | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/16/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm
The soaring music of Hildegard von Bingen (1098-1179) from a thousand years ago and lyrical medieval songs instill a sense of calm in today’s stressful world. Improvise a meaningful accompaniment shadowing Hildegard’s vocal lines. Learn a hymn from the 14th century Italian Laudario di Firenze and a Cantiga de Santa Maria from the 13 th century Spain. All harp levels and singers welcome.

Renaissance Dance Party! – Nancy Hurrell | Type: Hands-on | Level: Beg/Int | When: 7/17/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm
Get ready for the Somerset Renaissance Ball on Friday night! Nancy will teach the dance steps and use recorded dance band music. We’ll learn the steps to the elegant pavane, jolly branles, and fiery Spanish canario. No costumes needed for this class. Dress in Ren garb for the Renaissance Ball on Friday night!

Hidden Historical Harps in Irish Castles and Museums – Nancy Hurrell | Type: Lecture | Level: Any | When: 7/19/2026 9:00am-11:00am

As a harp historian, author and consultant to the Boston museum, Nancy has been granted special access to examine historical harps in museum storage facilities and private collections in Ireland, Northern Ireland and the UK. This PowerPoint lecture reveals many splendid rare harps hidden from public view and explores their important role in Irish cultural history. Hear stories of her discoveries and experiences, from staying in an Irish castle to a private visit to the President of Ireland’s house.

Introduction to Wire-Strung Harp Fingering Techniques – Karen Loomis | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/17/2026 9:30am-11:00am
This workshop will introduce participants to the historical fingerings Irish harpers used to strike and damp the wire strings of their harps, making the most of the instrument’s beautiful resonance. We’ll learn some of the fundamental fingering techniques, and how to use these to play a traditional eighteenth-century Irish harp tune.

Historical Music of the Welsh Bards (beginners) – Karen Loomis | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/17/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm
Learn to play the bardic harp music of the Welsh cerdd dant tradition, which survives in the seventeenth century-century manuscript of Robert ap Huw. Workshop participants will be introduced to the fundamentals of how cerdd dant works, the figurations and how to play them, and how to read and understand the tablature. We’ll learn to play a lovely, simple piece from the manuscript.

Historical Music of the Welsh Bards (intermediate) – Karen Loomis | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int. | When: 7/18/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm
This workshop is for participants who already have some experience playing the bardic harp music of the Welsh cerdd dant tradition, which survives in the seventeenth-century manuscript of Robert ap Huw. Take a deep dive into the music and grow your knowledge and skills learning an advanced piece from the manuscript.

Horsehair Harp Strings – Karen Loomis | Type: Lecture | Level: Any | When: 7/18/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm
Harps have long held a place of importance in Welsh music, and a significant historical source of notated music survives in the early seventeenth-century manuscript of Robert ap Huw. This bardic harp music predates the Welsh triple harp that is usually associated with Wales, however. Earlier Welsh harps had a single rank of strings, and in the fifteenth to seventeenth centuries, would have bray pins to produce a buzzing sound. Gut would have been a typical string material, but Welsh sources particularly mention harps with strings of horsehair. Today, gut-strung bray harps are available for performance of early harp repertory, and can be heard on a number of recordings, including selections from the Robert ap Huw manuscript. But what would it be like to play this early Welsh harp music on a horsehair strung harp, and how would it sound? In this workshop, participants will explore the differences between gut and horsehair strings, hear how this early Welsh repertoire sounds on horsehair, and learn how to make harp strings from horsehair.

International

Tunes for the Birds – Kim Robertson | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/16/2026 9:30am-11:00am

Throughout history, birds have been a beloved symbol in folklore, literature and music. Learn some lovely bird-themed international folk tunes, along with some or the inspiring symbolism surrounding our feathered friends. Share your own favorite bird-related tunes. Hands-on, all levels welcome.

Mediterranean Folk Music: Feel the Pulse through Dance & Singing – Adriano Sangineto | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int/Adv | When: 7/16/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm

In this workshop, you’ll explore irregular and asymmetric rhythms rooted in Mediterranean and modal folk traditions. Through movement, clapping, singing, and hands-on playing, you’ll learn how to feel complex meters—such as 5, 7, and 9—as natural, flowing grooves rather than mathematical patterns. Working with modal melodies and original folk-inspired compositions, we’ll connect rhythm, mode, and phrasing to unlock the expressive power of these traditions. Ideal for intermediate to advanced harpists and musicians who wish to deepen their rhythmic awareness and expand their folk language in unconventional time signatures.

Italian Harp Tradition of the Viggianese Harp – Adriano Sangineto | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int. | When: 7/17/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm
Discover the unique Italian folk harp tradition of Viggiano (Basilicata), the only place in Italy with a true popular harp heritage. Learn selected traditional tunes focusing on rhythm, phrasing, and ornamentation. A hands-on exploration of a rare and historically rich repertoire. For intermediate to advanced lever harp players.

Learn one of Adriano’s Compositions – Adriano Sangineto | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int./Adv. | When: 7/18/2026 9:30am-11:00am
Learn one of Adriano’s original compositions for harp, rooted in rhythm, groove, and contemporary musical language. Explore layered textures, strong pulse, and modern harmonic ideas. Develop rhythmic awareness and expressive freedom on the harp. For intermediate to advanced harp players.

Harp and Technology

Introduction to Harp and Technology – Emily Hopkins | Type: Lecture | Level: Beg | When: 7/16/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm
Confused about how to use a pick up? Not sure what a digital interface is, or how to use a drum machine? This is the perfect place to start if you’re interested in mixing your harp music with various music technology!

Pedalboards, Effect Pedals, & Amplification – Emily Hopkins | Type: Hands-on | Level: Beg | When: 7/18/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm
Whether you’re new to the world of effect pedals or are already using effects pedals, we will cover everything from patch cables to pedalboards! We’ll discuss the different kinds of effect pedals that are available and how to use them to enhance your performances, and there will be many different kinds of effect pedals to test out in person.

Recording and Refining the Harp Digitally – Emily Hopkins | Type: Lecture | Level: Int | When: 7/18/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm
Recording the harp can be tricky, whether you have a pickup built into your harp or not. We’ll cover the basics of recording using both microphones and interfaces, and we’ll discuss techniques and the equipment needed to make your recordings sound professional!

Sharing the Harp Through Social Media – Emily Hopkins | Type: Lecture | Level: Any | When: 7/17/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm
The world of social media can be intimidating, but we’ll discuss how to share your harp content in fun and engaging ways! You’ll learn to better navigate social media platforms, and we’ll highlight different methods of promoting yourself and your music online.

Ask Me Anything: Harp & Tech Troubleshooting with Emily! – Emily Hopkins | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/16/2026 – 7/18/2026 11:30am-12:30pm (In Person Only)
Got questions about integrating technology with your harp? Whether you’re exploring effects pedals, MOOG synthesizers, or working with DAWs, Emily is here to offer personalized advice and troubleshooting. This hands-on, open-format workshop allows you to bring your own gear and dive into the specifics of your setup. Emily will guide you through challenges, suggest creative solutions, and provide expert tips to help you master the tech tools that can elevate your harp performances. Come ready to ask your questions and leave with new insights and inspiration!

Harp Soundscapes: Composing with Lever Harp and Electronic Effects – Adriano Sangineto | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int. | When: 7/18/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm

Step beyond the strings and into a world of limitless sound possibilities! You will explore the creative process of writing music by combining the traditional lever harp with electronic effects. Adriano will guide you through using effects (such as delay, reverb, distortion, etc), and electronic pads to enrich the harp’s sound, and creating unique & original atmospheres. We will cover techniques for blending electronic sounds with both traditional and modern melodies, using tools like loopers, pedals, and MIDI controllers to enhance compositions. Participants will have the opportunity to improvise and compose in real-time, crafting original soundscapes that merge harp and technology. Electronic pedals are not required, but if students have some which they want to test, they are very welcome to bring them.

Technique

Extended Techniques for the Llanera Harp – Nicolas Castañeda Lozano | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int. | When: 7/17/2026 9:30am-11:00am

This workshop focuses on extended techniques of the llanera harp and how these can be adapted and explored on folk and lever harps. Participants will experiment with unconventional sounds, textures, and playing methods derived from both traditional practices and contemporary approaches. The session encourages creative exploration and offers practical tools to expand the sonic possibilities of the harp beyond standard techniques.

Practice With Purpose: A Card-Based Approach to Learning Music – Rachel Clemente | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/16/2026 11:30am-12:30pm

In this workshop Rachel introduces her card-based practice system designed to support musicians through every stage of learning a piece—new, working, and polishing. Participants will explore how focused practice prompts can bring clarity, efficiency, and variety to daily practice sessions. Using real repertoire examples, the session demonstrates how the cards can be used for problem-solving, musical refinement, and performance preparation. The practice card deck will be available at the festival desk for those interested, though the workshop focuses on flexible practice strategies that can be used with or without the cards.

Express Yourself, Insights Into Playing a Traditional Scottish Air – Rachel Clemente | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/19/2026 9:30am-11:00am

Get to Know Suzuki Methodology for Teaching Harp – Rachel Clemente | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/17/2026 11:30am-12:30pm

Curious about how Suzuki methodology can support harp teaching? This workshop offers an overview of core Suzuki principles—such as learning by ear, repetition, positive reinforcement, and parent involvement—and explores how they can be applied effectively in harp instruction. Designed for teachers, performers, and students interested in pedagogy, this session provides practical insights into building strong technique, musicality, and confidence from the very beginning, while fostering a supportive and motivating learning environment.

Accompaniment Toolbox – Rachel Clemente | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int. | When: 7/18/2026 11:30am-12:30pm

Want to spice up your left hand accompaniment? Unlock sounds and harmonic colors that will transform basic chords into effortless accompaniments. Rachel will guide you through different patterns and textures that any player can apply to their favorite tunes!

4-Chord Sing-Along – Kathy DeAngelo | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/18/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm

Let’s hang out around our make-believe campfire and learn how to put a few simple accompaniment patterns to easy sing-along songs–without frying your brain! Finetune your harp GPS settings and learn to navigate between chords, regardless of what key you’re in. We’ll take the mystery out of transposing. We’ll have plenty of songs with choruses on our playlist. This is a great segue to play in the Saturday night session.

Singing & Harp: Getting Started – Christy-Lyn Dosé | Type: Hands-on | Level: Beg/Int | When: 7/19/2026 9:30am-11:00am

Do you dream of singing and playing but aren’t sure where to start? In this workshop Christy-Lyn will make it feel simple, and walk you through the first moments of playing while you sing, with lots of encouragement and support. You’ll also learn how to create your own simple accompaniments and choose a key that suits your voice perfectly. No musical knowledge or sheet music skills needed!

You’re Not a Slow Learner, You Just Don’t Know How to Practice – Christy-Lyn Dosé | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/16/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm

Do you make the same mistakes today, even if you practiced the piece yesterday? The problem isn’t you, it’s the way you’re practicing! In this workshop, Christy-Lyn will explain what’s going wrong, and how to practice in a way that actually works with how the brain learns new information. You’ll leave with a clear, practical checklist with the 5 elements of effective practice, so you can start practicing with confidence and see real progress!

How to FINALLY Read Sheet Music Fluently! – Christy-Lyn Dosé | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/18/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm

Have you tried reading sheet music, but it never seems to stick? Do you find yourself slowly figuring out every note, or writing in letter names just to get by? In this workshop, Christy-Lyn will take you through her unorthodox method of “cheat reading” sheet music, which has helped so many students to finally become fluent. You’ll learn how to build a strong page-to-finger connection, how to read “words” instead of individual “letters”, and how to make it all finally click!

How Music Works: Learning to Play Songs By Ear – Edie Elkan | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/17/2026 9:30am-11:00am

Attendees will learn that if they can hum a tune, they’ll be able to play it. We start with melodies and then we’ll move to harmony, choosing chords that suit us and also, left hand patterns. There will be handouts. The only notation we’ll use will be lead sheets to illustrate examples of how all music works. We will learn how to pull in melodies and then chord them—all by ear.

Invite Delight: Embrace Playing with Joy, Freedom, and Delight! – Martha Gallagher | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/16/2026 9:30am-11:00am

Welcoming joy into every aspect of your music and your playing A different and delightful way to move out of playing doldrums and performance anxiety, this workshop is for those who desire to truly relish and enjoy playing the harp! It’s so easy to get caught up in “thumbs up” and counting and getting the notes right (whatever the heck that means- lol!) and lose touch with why we fell in love with the harp in the first place. We want to make beautiful music. To create. To share. To bring more beauty into the world. And to love doing it! In this workshop we’ll have a wonderful time exploring fun, fruitful ways in which to let go of those excuses we hold onto so tightly (you know what I’m talking about!) and embrace playing with joy, freedom, and delight!

Composing from the Heart: HeartSongs – Martha Gallagher | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/18/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm

Creating one’s own mantras, chants and simple songs is a beautiful way to play/say/sing what is in our hearts. We will explore these music forms and create our own uncomplicated, personal songs; a beautiful way to creatively express and support oneself in times of uncertainty, anger and fear, so prevalent in our world today. This music can be as a balm and delight in one’s daily life as well as deepening and potent spiritual practices. This offering is not intended as specifically religious and is centered on universal spiritual practices.

Effortless Technique 1 – Maeve Gilchrist | Type: Hands-on | Level: Beg./Int. | When 7/16/26 9:30am-11:00am
Maeve will guide you through a series of exercises and practice suggestions honing in on the three facets of a well-rounded technique: linear work (scales), shape work (chords and arpeggios) and independent hand and finger exercises. Deconstructing as need be, she’ll present an accessible approach to technique with the idea that you will garner an understanding of how to develop these ideas in your own practice in a way that’s tailored to each unique musical vision. Kickstart your practice regime with a bucketload of practice tips and concepts that will keep you going for years to come!

Effortless Technique 2 – Maeve Gilchrist | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int./Adv. | When 7/16/26 1:00pm-2:30pm
Maeve will guide you through a series of exercises and practice suggestions honing in on the three facets of a well-rounded technique: linear work (scales), shape work (chords and arpeggios) and independent hand and finger exercises. Deconstructing as need be, she’ll present an accessible approach to technique with the idea that you will garner an understanding of how to develop these ideas in your own practice in a way that’s tailored to each unique musical vision. Kickstart your practice regime with a bucketload of practice tips and concepts that will keep you going for years to come!

Textural Explorations: Excerpts from 12 Dances – Maeve Gilchrist | Type: Hands-on | Level Int./Adv. | When: 7/16/26 3:15pm-4:45pm

Later this year, Maeve will release her newest suite of music, 12 Dances and this class offers an exclusive early look. Drawing on excerpts from that forthcoming collection, Maeve will guide participants through a series of contrasting musical textures, weaving together the mechanics of harp playing with imagery, imagination, and technical facility.Designed for the more advanced player, this workshop lives at the exciting intersection of technique and creativity where the physical meets the expressive, and where great music-making truly begins.

Master Class with Maeve Gilchrist | Type: Hands-on/Lecture | Level: Adv./Observers Welcome | When: 7/17/26 9:30am-11:00am

Have you ever wished you could sit beside Maeve and just ask her everything? In this intimate 90-minute master class, a small group of six advanced players will work one-on-one with Maeve in front of a live audience receiving real-time coaching, honest feedback, and the kind of guidance that can shift the way you play. Participant spots are limited and must be applied for in advance.Observers are warmly welcomed and encouraged to bring their questions this session is as much a conversation as it is a coaching session. It’s especially well-suited for harp teachers looking to spark new ideas and watch the coaching process up close, but anyone who wants to learn, listen, and connect will find something valuable here.

Go Paperless with Digital Sheet Music – Robbin Gordon-Cartier | Type: Lecture | Level: Any | When: 7/17/2026 9:30am-11:00am

Explore the world of digital sheet music and how to make the switch from paper to tablet. Robbin will go over the basic starter pack and give tips and favorite shortcuts and enhancements to make going digital easy and helpful. Find out how liberating it is not dragging a case of music to a gig and having access to music that is not even in your paper library yet. You’ll get all the pointers in getting started, including how to convert music you already have, organizing tips, best practices for using the tablet in practice and at gigs and so much more.

All That Jazz – Robbin Gordon-Cartier | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int. | When: 7/17/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm

Curious about jazz but not sure where to start? This workshop offers a playful yet practical introduction to jazz repertoire and improvisation for harpists. Explore feel, phrasing, and harmonic choices as you learn how to move beyond patterns toward more expressive, spontaneous music-making. Perfect for players looking to add a new stylistic dimension to their harp voice.

Accompanying Song – William Jackson | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/17/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm

Whether accompanying yourself or when someone else is singing, this workshop will take a look at various chordal patterns on the harp that might work, starting from simple patterns and becoming more complex.

Love Your Levers – Anne Marie O’Farrell | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int./Adv. | When: 7/18/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm
discover ways of expanding your repertoire and harmonic range by moving those levers. In this workshop Anne-Marie will show you tips and tricks to make your lever changes more effortless. Build your confidence and expand what you can do with your harp. We’ll be applying these lever changes to a range of pieces including transcriptions and arrangements which exploit the full colour of the harp.

Make Your Harp Sound Like a Mandolin or Balalaika: The Paraguayan Trino – Alfredo Rolando Ortiz | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int./Adv. | When: 7/18/2026 9:30am-11:00am

Learn how to make your harp sound like a mandolin or balalaika using the famous Paraguayan Trino, a unique and beautiful technique drawn from South American harp traditions. Alfredo has presented this workshop at international pedal and lever harp events for many years, and for the first time at Somerset, he will focus exclusively on teaching this signature technique in depth. If time allows, Alfredo will also introduce additional fun and special techniques to expand your expressive toolkit. YouTube samples can be found searching with the words “ORTIZ ZAYANTE” or “LLEGADA PEREZ CARDOZO” (don’t be intimidated by the speed … it can be done “SLOWLIER”

Playing Backup – Kim Robertson | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/18/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm

Begin to think like a rhythm instrument with simple damping techniques, flat-handed bass lines, power chords, syncopated patterns and tone variations. Learn to effectively back up other instruments, singing or even spoken word. Also included are some tips for sitting in (and faking it!) at Celtic sessions. Hands-on, all levels welcome.

The Healthy Harpist

Yoga for Harpists – Shyamali Hauth | Type: Hands-On | Level: Any | When: 7/16/2026 – 7/19/2026 8:00am-9:00am

Mindfulness for Performance Anxiety – Edie Elkan | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/16/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm

You know the feelings—racing heartbeat, sweaty palms, self-defeating thoughts—and those set in with just the thought of playing for others. You’re not alone. Learn some essential tools that just may transform such moments from dreaded to joyful.

Nerves of Steel Masterclass – Robbin Gordon-Cartier | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/18/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm

Does performing in public or even the idea of it send you into a tailspin of nerves? Has the pandemic gotten you out of practice? How will you work around the changes that come with age and illness? Let Robbin show you how to develop a routine that allows you to look forward to performing and sharing your gifts with others.

DIY 1 Knot Tying – Liza Jensen | Type: Lecture | Level: Any | When: 7/16/2026 11:30am-12:30pm
Learn to Do It Yourself. Liza focuses on properly using your tuner and tuning your harp. Essential! Is there a difference between tuning with levers up or levers down? What about the difference between tuning loud or soft. Then what do you do when your lever buzzes when engaged? You gotta know this stuff.

DIY 2: Tuning – Liza Jensen | Type: Lecture | Level: Any | When: 7/17/2026 11:30am-12:30pm
Learn to Do It Yourself. Liza focuses on properly using your tuner and tuning your harp. Essential! Is there a difference between tuning with levers up or levers down? What about the difference between tuning loud or soft. Then what do you do when your lever buzzes when engaged? You gotta know this stuff.

Harp Regulation & Maintenance – Liza Jensen | Type: Lecture | Level: Any | When: 7/18/2026 11:30am-12:30pm
The mysteries of harp regulation will be completely resolved in this one workshop with our expert harp technician! Liza will answer your questions about what it means to have your harp regulated and all its associated concerns such as what happens to your harp as it ages and why the harp shifts. See what that looks like. Bring your harp to this workshop and see it for yourself. How old is too old for your strings to be on your harp? What are the top 5 reasons your harp will buzz? There are all sorts of things to be learned about your harp–no matter how long you’ve been playing you’ll learn all kinds of useful info in this workshop.

Play Betterrrrrrr Play Fasterrrrrr While Preventing Injury – Alfredo Rolando Ortiz | Type: Lecture | Level: Any | When: 7/16/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm and 7/17/26 3:15pm-4:45pm
Did you know Alfredo is also a medical doctor with specialized training in Music Therapy and sensory-motor learning? In this workshop, he shares practical, body-aware strategies to improve technique, ease difficult passages, and help prevent or correct playing-related pain, including tendonitis. Learn how to build good habits by focusing on the right physical sensations, eliminate inefficient movements, and explore tools such as the “Ortiz squeeze.” Especially valuable if you’re experiencing discomfort—but beneficial for professionals, teachers, and students at all levels. Presented worldwide at major harp events.

Latin

Learn Two of Alfredo’s Favorite Compositions: Habanera Gris & Danza de Luzma – Alfredo Rolando Ortiz | Type: Hands-on | Level: Beg./Adv. | When: 7/18/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm
Discover accessible fingerings, clear accompaniment patterns, and rhythmic approaches that make these beloved pieces come alive. In this workshop, Alfredo breaks down two of his most popular compositions—Habanera Gris and Danza de Luzma—focusing on ease of technique, groove, and musical flow. These works are already favorites of thousands of harpists worldwide, with hundreds of performances shared on YouTube. Learn what makes them so playable, so satisfying, and so widely loved—and take home practical tools you can apply to your own repertoire.

Make Your Harp Sound Like a Mandolin or Balalaika: The Paraguayan Trino – Alfredo Rolando Ortiz | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int./Adv. | When: 7/18/2026 9:30am-11:00am
Learn how to make your harp sound like a mandolin or balalaika using the famous Paraguayan Trino, a unique and beautiful technique drawn from South American harp traditions. Alfredo has presented this workshop at international pedal and lever harp events for many years, and for the first time at Somerset, he will focus exclusively on teaching this signature technique in depth. If time allows, Alfredo will also introduce additional fun and special techniques to expand your expressive toolkit. YouTube samples can be found searching with the words “ORTIZ ZAYANTE” or “LLEGADA PEREZ CARDOZO” (don’t be intimidated by the speed … it can be done “SLOWLIER”

Extended Techniques for the Llanera Harp – Nicolas Castañeda Lozano | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int. | When: 7/17/2026 9:30am-11:00am

Improvising Across Cultures: The Harp as a Global Instrument – Nicolas Castañeda Lozano | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/18/2026 1:00pm-2:30pm

Drawing on world music traditions and experimental practices, this workshop explores improvisation on the harp beyond jazz-based approaches. Informed by the instructor’s studies in world music in Finland, the session introduces tools for both structured and open improvisation that apply to folk, lever, and classical harps. Participants will develop creativity, deep listening skills, and personal musical expression through guided exploration and collaborative sound-making.

Latin-Inspired Chord Progressions and Bass Comping for Harp – Nicolas Castañeda Lozano | Type: Hands-on | Level: Int./Adv. | When: 7/19/2026 9:30am-11:00am

Drawing on Latin music traditions, this workshop explores chord progressions and bass comping techniques adapted specifically for the harp. Participants will study common harmonic movements, rhythmic feels, and left-hand comping patterns used in Latin genres, and learn how to apply them in both solo and ensemble settings. Designed especially for classical harpists looking to expand their rhythmic flexibility, the session emphasizes groove, coordination between bass and harmony, and developing versatile accompaniment approaches.

Religious

Taizé Music – Rhett Barnwell | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/19/2026 9:30am-11:00am

The Taizé Community in the Burgundy region of France has produced a repertoire of simple, meditative worship music which transcends musical styles and has become popular in the United States. This workshop will explore the origins of the Community, its mission and worship practices, and take an in-depth look at the repertoire. Taize music is ideal for use with the harp and other instruments, and the current editions and arrangements will be examined. The workshop concludes with participants playing for a “simulated” Taizé service, complete with candles and icons. Additional acoustic instruments, such as violin, flute, recorder, etc. are encouraged.

Playing for Church Without Losing Your Religion – Rhett Barnwell | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/18/2026 9:30am-11:00am

There may be no higher calling than when we are asked to play, or volunteer to play, for a religious service in a church or temple. For those for whom this may be a new experience, or for experienced church harpists who wish to get new ideas, this workshop is just for you! We will take a look at the practical side of playing in a religious setting, including a survey of major denominations and worship styles. The Liturgical Calendar will be explored, and we will see why “Salve Regina” will be a big hit at the local Catholic Church, but a bomb at First Baptist! Practical guides to repertoire, compensation, weddings, funerals and other aspects of playing in a sacred setting will be covered. Participants will be asked to volunteer to play something. Rhett will also include a piece for you to add to your repertoire.

Celtic Service – Debbie Brewin-Wilson | Type: Lecture | Level: Any | When: 7/19/2026 8:00am-9:00am

Debbie is our official pastor in residence! Join her for her Sunday morning worship service and make “a joyful noise”.

Moving Spirit: Gentle Dance and Movement – Martha Gallagher | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/17/2025 8:00am-9:00am

Renew your creativity and joy, connecting body, mind and spirit. Moving Spirit is rooted in the conscious dance modality TranscenDance™ and combines movement and dance with spoken word, creating a wonderful embodiment spiritual practice. Authentic (self-directed) dance deeply encourages creativity to flow mentally and physically, helping to release embodied, embedded anxiety and tension. Combined with spiritually-centered spoken word, it invites an embodiment of opening the heart and soul. (And it feels good to move and it’s fun!) Recorded music, live music and spoken word gently guide us. No experience needed; accessible to all mobility and fitness levels. You are invited to participate at the level of your own personal comfort. All welcome; harping and non-harping attendees alike.

Improvising with Christmas music: Play and Make Good Cheer – Martha Gallagher | Type: Hands-on | Level: Beg/Int | When: 7/19/2026 9:30am-11:00am

We’ll have fun exploring some Christmas music favs through the art of improvisation. Enjoy learning how to create your own in-the-moment arrangements that flow. Discover the freedom of releasing the myth of the “wrong note” and embracing what comes forth from your own imagination. “At Christmas play and make good cheer, for Christmas comes but once a year.”

Weddings – From soup to nuts! – Robbin Gordon-Cartier | Type: Lecture | Level: Any | When: 7/16/2026 9:30am-11:00am

Say YES to the wedding gig! Performing for weddings can range from just a solo fifteen-minute prelude to the entire ceremony, cocktail hour and reception. What are the do’s and don’ts, how to select the music and how do you know when you are ready to say yes to these jobs.

Calm Christmas – Kim Robertson | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/17/2026 3:15pm-4:45pm

Known for her peaceful Christmas recordings, Kim will share some of her favorite slow tempo carols, along with simple but evocative arranging ideas. Learn how to create a soothing and nostalgic atmosphere during the stressful holiday season. Hands-on, all levels welcome.

Performance

Somerset Folk Harp Festival Ensemble Reherasal – Robbin Gordon-Cartier | Type: Hands-on | Level: Any | When: 7/16/2026 8:00am-9:00am

Experience the joy of playing harp in a collaborative setting with the Somerset Folk Harp Festival Ensemble! This unique opportunity invites harpists of all levels to rehearse and perform together, fostering community through music. Led by Robbin Gordon-Cartier, the ensemble will meet daily from 8:00–9:00am Thursday through Sunday, culminating in a performance during the Sunday 12:00pm concert. Participants will receive music in advance to prepare for the festival. Bring your harp and join us for a rewarding and memorable musical experience!