Did you know that the ancient tradition of harping in the Celtic lands is as old as piping? Harps and bagpipes developed side by side, and much of the same music is played on both instruments. Some tunes date as far back as 1400 AD, many are from the 16th through 19th centuries, and some are new.

This year we will have a Harp Tent open to the public the day of the Games. You'll be able to listen to harp music and purchase CDs, books and videos. There will also be an extra harp or two for individuals who have always wanted to try to play.

The organizer of this year's harp activities is Eileen Warr-Marti. Eileen currently works for Dusty Strings Acoustic Music Shop in Seattle, WA. She has been active in the Puget Sound folk harp community for about 20 years.

Music available from www.pugetsoundfolkharpsociety.org

Schedule of Events

Saturday
9:30-10:30 Set up, tune, talk
10:30-11:15 Soloist, Duets, Ensembles, or impromptu workshop on "This is a Harp" or "What is Scottish harp technique?" (just in case the harpist are too shy to play)
11:30-1:00 Lunch break and shopping at the venders booths.
1:00 Harp Circle, Every harpist is welcome to play in the harp circle from the most beginner to accomplished performers.
Common tunes, and the key, for the group to play that were suggested last year:
Arran Boat Song (D)
Road to Lisdoonvarna (D)
Shebeg Shemore (D)
Pulling Bracken (G)
Rosin Castle
Greensleeves (C)
Ash Grove (C)
Morgan Magen (G)
Eleanor Plunkett (G)
Brian Boru (Am)
Planxty Irwin (C)
Fanny Power (G)
Skye Boat Song (G)
Auld Lang Syne - last tune
After the Harp Circle
"So, you've always wanted to play the harp?"
This is the chance for the public to try their hands on a few harps provided by Dusty Strings.
Sunday
9:30-10:30 Set up, tune, talk
10:30-11:15 Soloist, Duets, Ensembles, or a harp workshop "This is a Harp," "What is Scottish harp technique?" "Gaelic Song for the Harpist"
11:30-1:00 Lunch break and shopping at the venders booths.
1:00 Northwest Regional Scottish Harp Competition
Beginning, Intermediate, Harp and Voice, Advanced
The competition will be followed by a Harp Circle lead by the Adjudicators and Winners of the Northwest Regional Scottish Harp Competition.

To Enter the Northwest Regional Harp Competition click here for entry forms, judging and list of required tunes.

For more information contact Eileen Warr-Marti .