I love leading and writing for harp ensembles. Getting together to play in groups is enjoyable and educational. You have to learn to listen to the other players and watch the director. In exchange, the parts are often easier – a lot easier – than solo harp pieces. That’s because there others to share in the playing.
Writing for the San Jose Youth Orchestra Harp Ensemble
I am fortunate to have a long-term friendship and professional love of harp ensemble music with the director of the Harp Ensemble of the San Jose Youth Orchestra. The Harp Ensemble commissioned me to write an arrangement of R. Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on Greensleeves, which premiered at their winter concert on December 14, 2019.
If you or your ensemble is interested in playing this piece, the sheet music for this arrangement will be available soon. Until then, please enjoy the premier performance:
Upcoming Arrangements
I have three new arrangements in the works for 2020:
- Down in the River, an American spiritual with a solo harp part (for beginning to intermediate players)
- The Rainbow Cradle, a Dine’ (Navajo) lullaby (for beginning and intermediate players)
- Take 5, made famous by Dave Brubeck (for intermediate and advanced players. Pedal harp required for some parts)
I am especially interested in music with American roots. I am an 11th generation North American, and I am interested in finding, reviving, arranging and playing North American-based music. I’m always open to ideas.