Those who live there, and those who visit already know Grand Manan Island is a wonderfully picturesque island in the Bay of Fundy.
In many ways, it resembles the scenery of Ireland, or some Scottish Isles. That makes it a perfect setting for a first gathering of harpists
This week some equally lovely sounds are likely to be wafting over the land at the Grand Manan Harpers Retreat.
“You can’t really make a bad sound on a harp”
The gathering is organized by veteran harpist Sharon Johnston who runs a school for harpists in Goderich Ontario, but who spends summers on the island.
Quoted by CBC she said, “”I’m a classically-trained pianist, but putting a harp in my arms changed my life. In some ways, it’s a very easy instrument to learn, because the very first note that you play on a harp will sound beautiful. You really can’t make a bad sound on a harp.”
Veteran Canadian harpist Sharon Johnston is hosting this first retreat at which about 20 harpists are expected.
The retreat is geared toward the Celtic harp which at bout 1.2-1.5 metres tall, are somewhat smaller than concert harps which are about 1.8 m tall and which may have additional pedals to adjust the sound like a piano.
The five day retreat started on Monday, and a public concert will be held at the end of event on September 9.
Sharon Johnston, YouTube (55 sec-abrupt end)
Additional information- sources
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