Harp Lessons

Approaching the Harp

Professor Holvick frequently explains, "Studying piano is akin to studying jazz dance; while studying harp is similar to studying ballet." Like ballet, playing the harp requires appropriate posture and positioning of the arms, wrists, hands, and fingers in order to produce opulent tone without the possibility of fatigue or long term wear.

Being a performing virtuoso harpist for nearly her entire life, Professor Holvick instructs her pupils how to execute the simplest beginner pieces in a professional manner as well as encourages them to envision a future of endless musical possibilities. She also bestows upon her students the joy of instant gratification by guiding them to play well in their first lesson.

Holvick Method for Harp Study

Professor Holvick took decades to develop a superior, unique, and efficient formula for teaching harp that is effective in providing students with a thorough musical education. The result is that students can more quickly play the kinds of music they like with this direct and user-friendly approach because they understand the music and see its construction.

Components of Harp Study

Professor Holvick's superior method for teaching harp generously incorporates elements from the following aspects of music and harp: posture, tuning, replacing strings, technical skill and strength, relaxation, note reading and writing, improvisation, composing, arranging, playing from chord charts, classical and jazz music theory, the reading, writing, and execution of rhythm, glissando and arpeggio techniques, special effects, ear training, dynamics/expression, speed sight-reading, repertoire building, conducting and orchestral practices, amplification, stage presence, costuming, make-up, conquering stage fright.

Ages

3 years old - 103 years old (See Suzuki Method below)

Rental Harps

Several harps are available to rent if a student does not own a harp.

Positive Harp Practicing

Professor Holvick coaches her pupils how to practice in a positive way so they approach the harp with anticipation because the practice time is entertaining and gratifying. Many pupils record their studio lessons for the convenience of assisting with their practicing at home.

Repertoire at the Harp

Students frequently compose their own music. Piano sheet music is interchangeable with harp music. All genres of music are encouraged. Professor Holvick has an enormous library of the traditional harp music ranging from the Medieval Period to contemporary music for students interested in exploring options. Celtic music is a particular favorite amongst harp students. Additionally, because Professor Holvick has a Masters of Music Degree in Jazz Studies, students pursue her to learn the jazz genre. Those pupils preferring to studying both voice and harp seek her expertise to learn the skill of accompanying themselves on the harp while singing.

Hand Position Technique

If students have no specific hand position technique, Professor Holvick teaches a slightly modified Salzedo Technique. If students already play French, German, or other international technique to effective results, she does not change their techniques, but corrects their alignment taking their techniques into consideration as well as the natural shape of their hands. Professor Holvick was trained in both French and Salzedo Techniques and plays a fusion of both.