July 25, 2012

2012 Harp in the Highlands and Islands Tour was Delightful!

We have just finished the 2012 Harp in the Highlands and Islands tour and had a fantastic time!  As always, we modified the activities and events to match the weather (which was pretty good considering that Scotland hasn’t gotten their summer yet), ongoing events in the places we went and the things in which our guests were particularly interested. 

Our guests thoroughly enjoyed themselves and were really open to new adventures.  Although our basic itinerary was only moderately modified, each day we were able to accommodate everyone and find new things even we hadn’t planned!  From changing the location of our daily harp event on Day 1 to catching a ceilidh and doing some dancing later on and including options for activities for each person on our last day, we almost had more fun providing the tour than our guests had being on it!

We also learned some great tunes, sang some, and had enjoyable conversations and discussions.  We met some interesting people, tried some new foods, and experienced outstanding scenery. 
We also welcomed our first non-harp playing musician – a guitarist.  Robin is an accomplished guitar player and she learned all the tunes along with the harpers.  It was a real pleasure to have a broader instrument base and we really enjoyed the interplay of harp and guitar.


Over the next few weeks, I’ll share some more of our trip and photos.  But for now, start planning!  The 2013 Harp in the Highlands and Islands Tour will be 2 – 9 September.  We’re already working on it so I hope you’ll plan to join us! 

July 11, 2012

What will you do on your Summer Vacation? Harp in the Highlands and Islands Tour!

I am on pins and needles waiting to depart for this year's Harp in the Highlands and Islands Tour! David and I have made some minor changes based on previous guest feedback and we know that 2012 will be the best year ever!

We are meeting in Edinburgh 16 July (so soon!) and are going to see some of the most beautiful scenery.  From the majestic beauty of the Isle of Skye, through the breathtaking western Highlands, and around the lush Spey valley you'll see and hear more than you could imagine.  Each day we're going to play and learn and laugh and have a great time.

And all the while we'll hear gasping - every mile we go we see something that noteworthy! We'll head towards the Highlands enjoying all the by-ways highlights that make Scotland so delightful. We'll explore the Spey Valley, Royal Deeside and more.

We will return to Edinburgh on 23 July sadly ending our time together.  Our very small group size allows flexibility so that each day you can see the very best Scotland has to offer as well as those special things that can’t be planned.

If you missed it this year, don't despair - David and I will plan a slightly different trip for next year!  If you want to come along - email me directly on jentheharper@gmail.com

July 4, 2012

Happy Independence Day

To all my American friends - Happy 4th July! 
Go play your harp enjoying the freedom to play and say whatever you please.