A Happy, Healthy prosperous new year

Hello dear readers and a Happy New Year from me! I sincerely hope 2022 will be a memorable year for us all, full to the brim with music. While reviewing the year, one thing became blatantly obvious to me and that was the lack of performances during 2021. I think that was the general consensus amongst us musicians as we twiddled our thumbs with dwindling hope for the ping of a text or an email notification inviting us to play. The upside to this is that I have cherished those rare performances that did go ahead like gold dust and those I played for were all the more memorable for their scarcity. It’s in our blood to entertain and to distract audiences from everyday life. If we can provide a means of escape for a couple of hours, then it’s job done. There’s no feeling quite like it.

My greatest hope for 2022 is that I will be able to offer my musical services on a broader scale, whether that’s for weddings, parties, events, solo performances, funerals or in my role as an educator, helping my students express themselves with our amazing instrument. Zoom is still a godsend and although it can be frustrating at times, I am lucky that I have that option. Sharing harps is tricky and I really miss my monthly teaching at Saltaire.

None of us are blessed with a crystal ball and who knows what lies ahead with COVID rules and regulations. Who am I to speculate on our situation 6 months from now? I have decided to grab 2022 by the G string and go about my music business in as normal a fashion as possible. I will be booking wedding fayres and announcing them as they arise so do keep an eye here as well as on my Instagram and Facebook pages. I’ve missed the friendly banter and meeting fellow wedding suppliers and hearing what they’ve been up to, so it’ll be great to get back in the swing of promotional events again.

First up is a wedding showcase at stunning Hodsock Priory, a venue I discovered last Summer when I played for Gemma and Matt’s extra special wedding. This venue is like something out of a fairytale and the wedding team were just brilliant. If you want to come and listen and have a chat about the music I have to offer here are the details:

Beautiful isn’t it? I’ve been learning lots of new background repertoire and I’m keen to share that with you so do come along, say hello and tell me what tunes you’d love to hear on the harp. From Lana del Rey to Bruno Mars, via Ed Sheeran of course, I always do my best to accommodate your requests!

This Sunday I’m taking part in my first proper orchestral concert for 2 years! Orchestral playing is my passion but I’d like to share something - I’m absolutely terrified! Not so long ago, when I was playing with orchestras regularly, I would have thought nothing of this. None of the repertoire is particularly challenging and I’ve played most of the pieces before but I’m still worried. I just want to do the best job I can and ultimately, when the baton goes down in Bridlington at 2pm on Sunday, I know I’ll have just the right focus. I just have to trust the process! And BREATHE!

So there you go, Even seasoned professionals get pre-performance nerves. I will be focusing on the music, my breath and visualising everything going well and if I play my cards (notes?) right, I might even get a stroll on the beach but no Mr Whippy this time - it’s sugar free January for me!

Playing with lilies

At Hodsock Priory last year. Image by the super talented Photos by Hash. I promise I’m friendly, that’s just my concentration face

Out of hibernation at last!

Hello Dear Readers! I can’t believe I haven’t blogged since October! So much has happened I don’t quite know where to start, so why don’t I start with music? At last I’m feeling really motivated and moved by music again, the main reason being that I might have 2 weddings in May. Please whisper that so we don’t jinx it! I’m optimistic that smaller weddings will become a big thing for the rest of the year as some couples decide that big isn’t always best and that wedding celebrations might be even better when held in stages. Why not have a small intimate ceremony, then later on, a party with punch and pizzazz as bigger gatherings are permitted again? Today I enjoyed researching some requests for May and I got a buzz as I remembered the process of making pop tunes sound good on the harp. I’ll be sharing some of those on social media when they’re ready to be aired so stay tuned.

A question I’ve been pondering is how I can reach couples who would be interested in having me play at their wedding without wedding fayres at which to perform my latest hits. Fayres are hard work but fun at the same time as they’re a great way to meet music loving clients as well as catching up with some amazing wedding suppliers. I have to remind myself to be patient as life resumes some sort of normality.

I’ve enjoyed practicing for my own pleasure as well as learning wedding requests. It’s helped keep my brain in shape, not to mention my fingers - I’m looking forward to having calluses again! I realised that when the urge to play is there, I have to seize it, even if I only have 5 minutes. I love having full days to indulge in some serious practice but life doesn’t always allow this luxurious time. Playing keeps my creativity topped up and connects me with the passionate part of my personality.

My online Zoom teaching has been a lifesaver. The ability to teach weekly from home is fantastic and it’s one of the blessings of technology. Obviously face to face lessons are ideal, but my regular students who have had their weekly dose of Zoom have steadily made significant progress in their playing and in their basic music theory knowledge. It’s also been lovely to see them and to catch up on their news. Feel free to get in touch if you fancy trying a Zoom lesson from the comfort of your own home.

From a non musical perspective, I’m still walking and running and enjoying the sanity that brings while swimming pools and gyms have been out of bounds. I’ve also been having online yoga lessons with Sue Cowlishaw - she’s a fantastic yoga teacher offering very varied classes, and every week I learn some new poses or flows, or we work on the fundamental postures. My mind, body and spirit love yoga!

I’ve been cooking a lot, and I mean a lot, and learning new styles of cuisine. When the pandemic worsened and I realised I’d have no playing work at all, I developed psoriasis on my arms and legs. I’m sure that stress and uncertainty were the main factors which aggravated this chronic condition. It hasn’t affected me significantly other than the appearance of the plaques denting my confidence but I think the arrival of Spring with an improvement in the weather, and more music will help with this. I’ve tried all sorts of approaches - prescription and non prescription lotions, creams and ointments, cutting out food groups, fasting, detoxes etc. Nothing has made a significant difference so I’m trying not to give it too much thought. I’m certain that as we learn a new way of being, my skin will settle down. I’m told that swimming in the sea and warmer climates are beneficial for psoriasis. Planning holidays abroad is good for psoriasis too! Did I tell you I’ve been learning Spanish? Wow, how I’ve enjoyed that! I’ve been learning the basics using an app on my phone. Learning a new language fills me with positivity and a sense of possibility. I love it!

For the time being I won’t be posting photos here, it takes too much time to download them. I will however be using Instagram and possibly Facebook (if I can work out how to get past the pesky code generator - what’s that about FB?!!) to share images and music clips. If you want to see what I get up to when I’m out and about away from the harp, I’m on Instagram as rarebitblogging It’s just a bit of fun, usually in the hills. Maintaining a sense of fun is so important!

I’m feeling excited about the future and ready to start this new chapter. Hope you’ll join me!

More music maybe?

It’s Thursday evening and it’s already been a busy old week. I always find the shop work challenging as it’s so fast paced. I never quite feel good enough. That’s a familiar theme as a perfectionist performer and I suppose I always try to give my best performance whatever work I’m doing. I used to love working on the tills as I got the chance to chat with customers a bit at quieter times, and try and bring a smile and some cheer to those who needed it. Since the new safety measures have been brought in (screens, masks and the 2 metre rule) I find engaging with customers so much harder. It’s more tiring to read their expressions and a lot of guess work goes on. It’s harder to tell what mood they’re in as I’m focused on going faster and I spend most of my shift looking down at broccoli and bread, drooling as yet another loaf passes under my nose, aromatically warm and crustily fresh from the oven. On the bright side, my till speed is significantly faster and mistakes are minor and minimal. Everything feels a lot more sterile especially communication (sad face) but if I’m more efficient I guess that’s a win from the perspective of the powers that be. I wonder if I can balance things out a bit. Do speed and quality. Hmmm. I can do it at the harp but it takes years of learning, slow practice and plenty of mistakes made along the way.

I’ve always been focused on customer service - customers that leave with smiles on their faces will come back for more. If, however, I bruise their bananas, they won’t be happy!

My obsession with running and walking has transferred to food lately. My feet have been giving me some grief after a straightforward 8 mile walk last Sunday and subsequently I’ve only run twice this week. It’s ok as I’ve been practicing attic yoga and stretching and strengthening exercises, but I’m aware I need some form of regular activity that makes my heart beat faster or I’m not quite right. The weather today was blissful, not too hot with a soothing breeze, and I felt so relaxed after feeling quite unwell yesterday. By the third and final day of my weekly shifts I feel quite run down and I have flu like symptoms. Come Thursday morning they’re gone so I put it down to the air con. Practice this morning was forfeited for 10 minute sessions sitting in the warm sun on my back garden step absorbing vitamin D and pondering how blue the sky was and how quickly summer has flown past. People, we’re almost in September and don’t you wonder where June and July went?!!

I taught two students online today and they had both made significant progress in a week. It filled my heart, really it did. They’re both getting to the stage where I can ask them to order a book, read through the first part of a piece and have figured much of it out on their own. They both started learning with me as complete beginners a couple of years ago and neither of them had much musical knowledge, and no basic theory skills. Since April they’ve been having weekly lessons and they’ve come on in leaps and bounds. That’s so rewarding for me as a teacher. Give a man a fish and all that. Neither student thought their work was of a particularly high standard but I could see such vast improvement where they couldn’t see much change at all. Sometimes we need someone else’s opinion and feedback on our work as we’re not always objective. Any form of learning demands some self criticism and it can be hard to turn the critic off but that’s the aim when we get a piece of music to performance level. “Just shut up and let me enjoy playing!” The slow burn learning process is both challenging and rewarding.

After teaching I went back into my garden and mowed the lawn, did some weeding and aerated the beds. Another thing ticked off the to-do list. I desperately wanted to go for a walk and a picnic, but simply being outdoors on a day like today was enough. The smell of cut grass wafts in through the window rewardingly as I type.

So far this year I’ve run and walked 882 miles. Yes, I know it’s a lot and my feet will definitely thank me if I offer them a week that’s lighter on the miles. I’m aiming for 1,000 miles this year. It’s great to have a goal especially when there are no playing gigs. It gets me up in the morning.

The other thing that I crave on a daily basis is creativity and by 6pm on a Wednesday if I’m not singing, humming, dancing, cooking or reading, I know something’s seriously wrong. I enjoyed preparing a short video clip for a bride last Friday. It was great to have a sort of deadline, a target, a project, and it’s never a bad thing for me to practice my tech and promotional stuff. I made three clips, one of which I sent to a satisfied bride. Another was posted on social media. One more box ticked. I had a lot of fun getting dressed up in one of my favourite play outfits and putting a smidgeon of lippy on. It almost felt like I had a gig! And soon I just might have a gig, or maybe even two…

Walking the walk

Hello dear readers, dear music lovers! How are you all doing during these crazy unsettling times? I wanted to reassure you that I’m still here. I love writing and I’ve really missed blogging but with the outbreak of COVID 19 and doing my part time shop job to the best of my ability with all the challenges that come with new regulations implemented every week, I’ve hardly had time to do one of my favourite things - write! I’ve made a few changes in my home since March and I’ve embarked upon a few DIY projects. I’ve been trying and testing new recipes and my diet is now mainly plant based. I’m still managing my house and tending my garden as best I can, so writing has taken a back seat. Whenever I have some free time I love to practice but seeing as most of my public performances have been cancelled or postponed, I’ve been practicing my own music for my pleasure and to keep my hands and fingers (and brain!) in shape. Interestingly my obsession with keeping myself in good physical shape has grown and I don’t feel quite right unless I’ve walked or jogged at least a couple of miles a day. I’ve pushed myself quite hard this month and with today’s wet weather I’m taking the day off to rest my feet and joints. I’ve slept a lot so I know tomorrow I’ll be ready to bounce into a new week.

When COVID kicked off I decided I was going to do my best to keep upbeat, not beat myself up at the loss of work/income. 2020 was all set to be one of the best years as far as weddings go, and I was ready to reap the fruit of all those hard played wedding fayres and all the promotional work they involve. Gradually the emails came pouring in and I’d brace myself to face the admin pile that mounted up as the weeks went on. I couldn’t be bothered practicing or even playing for my own pleasure. There were so many genuinely lovely brides and grooms whose weddings I was looking forward to playing at and so they’'ll be even more special when they do eventually go ahead, but it has been quite a painful time. I’ve had some personal financial difficulties to face as well and a few health concerns (psoriasis, a new one on me). But throughout this episode in my life I’ve managed to keep a surprisingly positive attitude. I’m convinced my walking and running has helped with that. When I’m feeling down I can either let myself slip down further or put on some leggings and running shoes and get out there. I’m no runner! However I can run a bit and stop when I get out of breath, and when I get back my mood is about 5 notches higher. Endorphins are the best and the feeling is very similar to the adrenaline rush I get from performing! I haven’t been swimming since March as my lovely little local pool is still closed. Running will never replace that invigorating first plunge into the water, but it’s the most accessible form of vigorous exercise I have at the moment.

I’ve fallen in love with longer walks since embarking on an expedition from home towards White Hill on the other side of the M62 on a scorching hot day at the end of May with my friends Gareth and Sue. We covered just over 20 miles that day. I felt as though I’d been purged, a deep cleansing of my self. My feet were in tatters and I had no energy for 2 days afterwards but it was a truly amazing feeling, especially when I considered what it’s like to drive 20 miles. Since then I’ve completed quite a few longer walks including one of my favourites, the Edale Skyline. Last Sunday we walked up Pen Y Ghent.

Pen Y Ghent conquered!

I wanted to walk all 3 of the Yorkshire Three Peaks but I don’t have the stamina yet. Walking really is a great way to experience the amazing countryside around me and it ticks so many boxes. What has walking and running got to do with music? You may well ask. For me it taps into my creative side. It allows me space to express the stream of thoughts whirling in my head and I feel appeased afterwards. On Friday for example, I set myself the goal of making a short recording of a request from a bride. At the end of a busy week including a day of online teaching on Thursday, the last thing I felt like doing was fiddling with tech but I had a goal. I was in a bad mood when I woke up later than I wanted. I pushed myself out and covered 3 miles and got to work. I got 3 versions of At Last recorded, sent one version to the bride and posted another on social media. I think that if I hadn’t run I probably wouldn’t have done the recording at all.

I’ve been doing some online yoga with the lovely Sue from sjcyoga - check her out, she’s pretty bloody good and has the patience of a saint when I’m huffing and puffing and telling her I can’t go on. We regularly do a killer core exercise I thought she said baby seals do. Turns out she said Navy Seals. Flip. I feel like a baby seal when I’m doing it and I go a rather alarming beetroot colour but I always feel better, straighter, taller and stronger after a session with her.

Other than loving living my adventures I’m always working on new music for weddings and events so keep those requests coming in and I’ll make time to learn them.

Have a great week and month!

Rhian

Happy New Year!

I’m a bit late in wishing all you lovely visitors to my website a prosperous and fruitful new year but here I am and I’m ready to make 2020 a musical year to plucking well remember. Just a few words tonight as I’ve got a lot of practice to be getting on with. Music makes me so happy and I love playing my harp at every opportunity! I wanted to share a couple of videos I’ve recently recorded of two songs that are very popular requests for weddings, but due to my slight lack of competence in the technical department, here are links to my Facebook and Soundcloud pages, where I’ve just uploaded two new wedding songs for 2020 and beyond.

My aim is to record a new track once a week. Last week was my take on the main theme from Out of Africa by John Barry. This week was my version of Ed Sheeran’s lilting love song, Perfect. You can also view videoclips on Instagram if you use it. Eventually I’d like to be able to produce basic videoclips (without having a complete technical meltdown) of me actually playing with the best sound quality I can achieve outside a studio.

As always, do let me know what you think and if you’d like me to make a short video or soundclip just for you! In the meantime, my focus is on the ppp’s - practice, practice and, you guessed it, playing! I’ve got some very exciting performances coming up this year - watch this space…

I love my job!

My stand

Neater and decluttered

I’m always keen to improve the services I offer. I’ve worked very hard over the past 2 years to develop my harp business and it feels like the tip of an immense iceberg at times. Learning to run my own business is a labour of love but at times it takes me so far away from the harp. I long to delve my fingers into those vibrant strings and practice for hours on end like I used to. I don’t have that luxury these days so any practice hours are precious. You could ask why I’m not practicing now but I know I need a certain kind of headspace to practice efficiently and this evening is earmarked for writing. It’s a sideline I’m trying to develop alongside my playing. Do you know anyone in need of my writing services?

With wedding fayre season in full swing, I have a confession to make - I’m hardly touching the harp. Only 2 months behind schedule, my brochure is almost ready to go to print and then I’ll start on the task of distributing it. Next, I’ll be updating my website and publicity materials. A few people have mentioned I’m not blonde anymore. I’ve really enjoyed my year of lightheadedness so in 2020, let’s see what happens. Watch this space - I’m embracing my darker side and maybe going back to my roots… I wonder what colour they are by now?

It’s so easy for me to get distracted. After an excellent day at Wortley Hall wedding fayre last weekend, I decided that I would address all the admin that evening after I’d had a bit of a rest. I emailed all you lovely couples who were so enthusiastic about my music and my offering and by 9pm I was ready for a quick social media post before calling it a day. In my haste to post, I forgot to share it to Facebook so if you’re not on Instagram or social media at all, you may have missed the snaps I’ve added to this post. If you haven’t met me yet and you’ve seen me looking a bit stern while I’m concentrating on my music, the ice cream photos might help you see I’m actually very friendly and approachable. Do come and say hello.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again - the best thing about fayres is the people I meet. I’ve worked alongside Graham Thewlis-Hardy and his wife Lisa from A Taste of Italy ice cream trike a fayre bit and I’ve sampled more than my fayre share of their amazing ice cream. With 97, yes, 97 flavours, I’ve got a lot more to sample. I have to retain myself, it’s so good. If you eat shop bought ice cream, Lisa and Graham’s gelati really are in a different parlour. It’s the “crème de la crème” of ice cream and it could be the perfect playful addition to your wedding. See photos below for some gratuitous food porn.

For balance, my stand was positioned next to a lovely friendly lady, Laura McNally. She’s a very knowledgeable personal trainer and she was so generous in offering me tips on my posture and how I can improve it away from the harp. Taking care of yourselves before your wedding is such a vital aspect that’s often overlooked and pleasant as she was, I wouldn’t want to mess with Laura!

Laura’s enticing stand

The massage balls are on my Christmas list

The next Wortley Hall Wedding Fayre is on the 26th January 2020. Might see you there? It’s always a fun fayre!

Ooohhhhh

Chocolate

Oh go on then

Open wide

I think my face says it all

I sampled the Turkish Delight which is out of this world as well as Cherry Italia, mmmmmmm

Enjoying a well earned cup of the strong stuff

After all that ice cream

Chandelier

above some vintage suffragette artwork

Inspiral

The gorgeous architecture at Wortley Hall

Wedding Fayre - Queens Hotel Leeds

I’m excited to be exhibiting at this fayre organised by those lovelies at Wedding Fayres Yorkshire on Sunday. It’s a new venue for me and after watching a short video on Facebook last night, I’m even more excited! It looks like a proper Art Deco venue and I love Art Deco.

Wedding Fayre season is in full flow and I’m loving playing at some stunning venues where I get to meet all you gorgeous couples. I’ll let you into a secret - I get so inspired by your music requests and I can’t wait for music week at the end of the month. It’s a week during which I just sit down and practice to my heart’s content. Happy Days! Or should that be Harpy Days?

Have a great weekend and maybe I’ll see you there on Sunday to chat about music for your Wedding or event?

October Wedding Fayres

I’ll be playing at the following fayres this month:

6/10 - Oulton Hall, Rothwell, Leeds

13/10 - Wortley Hall near Sheffield

Me at Wortley Hall

20/10 - Queens Hotel, Leeds

Come and say hello and tell me what music you’d like me to play just for you!

Margaret and Phil's wedding at The Fleece, Ripponden

Ready to play

I met Margaret and Phil at a wedding fayre last year and they really loved my music. It even brought a tear to Margaret’s eye when I played Over The Rainbow. This is the piece she chose for the signing of the register last week during the civil ceremony at the the Fleece in Ripponden. What a spectacular venue. Have you been? Nestled half way up a steep hill with idyllic views, it’s a unique and historic venue.

The terrace

There’s an upper level too with far reaching views

I played soothing calming favourites from my classical and timeless music collections while their guests waited for Margaret to arrive. She had requested Etta James’ version of At Last to walk down the aisle and I was delighted to arrange this emotional song just for her.

My beautiful Camac harp

After their poignant ceremony, I played From This Moment On by Shania Twain which works remarkably well on the harp. Margaret, Phil and their guests enjoyed their drinks reception on the terrace and I continued to play for their wedding breakfast. There were many music lovers amongst their friends and family and, somewhat interestingly, they gave me a round of applause for - guess what - Puccini!!!

Arrival

It really was a privilege to play a part in their special day. Do you have any special requests for your ceremony? Get in touch via the contact page on this website.

I love my job

Incredible skyline on the drive home

Wedding Fayre - Holmfirth Vineyard, Sunday 22nd September 2019

Images - Glix Photography

I’m delighted to announce that I’ll be playing at the Autumn Wedding Fayre at the spectacular Vineyard, just down the road from me on the outskirts of the bustling town of Holmfirth. As you can see from the photos, I’ve played here in the past at a wedding event held by Holmfirth Vineyard a few years ago. If you haven’t been, you really ought to check this unique venue out. Having that panoramic window as a backdrop for your wedding photos would really make them unforgettable. As for your wedding music, it’s a beautiful acoustic and the divine sounds of my harp would enhance any wedding celebration or special event.

Will I see you there on Sunday to chat about music for your event?

Huddersfield Town Hall Wedding Fayre

It’s a new season with new music and I’ve got a new look! Come on down to the Town Hall to talk about music for your event!

A blooming marvellous wedding

A perfect position to play Pachelbel’s Canon in D

surrounded by a few of my favourite things - books and blossom, and my Camac harp of course

I played for Emily and Josh’s gorgeous intimate wedding at Wortley Hall yesterday. I met Emily at a wedding fayre at Wortley Hall last year which she attended with her mum and her sister. A beautiful friendly dark brunette, Emily looked stunning in her amazing dress. She appeared magically at the wooden double doors before walking down the aisle after her bridal party.

I spy

That’s lovely Laurie at the far end. A key member of the Wortley Hall wedding team, there she is, efficiently ensuring everything’s in place before the ceremony

Emily wanted a combination of pop music that’s been featured in films like Twilight and Disney animation, as well as traditional classical music for her civil ceremony. This took place in the lounge, which was ornately decorated with gloriously oriental blossom trees. Her guests entered the room and I played some atmospheric background music as a backdrop for conversations between Emily’s family and friends as they awaited her arrival. The harp is the perfect choice if you want unobtrusive wedding music that’s soothing and uplifting.

For her entrance, Emily chose the timeless classic, Canon in D by Pachelbel. It’s an excellent choice to walk down the aisle as it’s calm and ceremonious, solemn yet rousing.

After the official ceremony came the signing of the register and the photos. It was the perfect opportunity for me to play Emily’s requests, A Thousand Years and Beauty and the Beast. You can listen to clips of all these pieces of music and more by clicking here:

The ceremony drew to a close and I played Allegro Maestoso by Handel for Emily’s exit with Josh. Celebratory and joyful, it’s a great choice as an exit piece. It was also performed at Princess Diana’s wedding so it’s got to be a good tune! It’s a significant moment, the first part of their journey as husband and wife, and choosing an optimistic upbeat piece of music is a good move. They walked out of the lounge directly onto the gardens, which looked like this:

Is it any wonder I love playing here?

The gardens are in full lush technicolour bloom right now. Doesn’t that giant shrub look a bit like a cake?

Beautiful dahlias

in the carefully tended gardens

Hearty artichoke plants

in the well stocked borders

Congratulations to the newly weds - wishing you every happiness for your future together!

LABOUR OF LOVE

Nikki and James

I haven’t had time to blog for quite a while. I attended a family funeral in Wales a fortnight ago and I’m still catching up with all the backlog after that visit. I’m nearly there and today will be spent replying to emails and sorting out some social media content. Sometimes I wish I had a PA! My laptop contracted some sort of nasty virus and it got slower and slower throughout June. Despite my attempts to cure it with help from the big G, my increasing frustration got the better of me and I took it to the MacDoctor last Friday. I must admit those hours without it were bliss. On Thursday evening I wanted to throw it out of the window and join the circus. I do try but tech definitely isn’t my forté.

I’ve taken on some extra shifts at the shop which means time has been even more scarce this week, but it’s good to be busy and out and about meeting some lovely local people. With this fine weather, I’ve been out run-walking a lot more and enjoying the scenery right on my doorstep - isn’t West Yorkshire just amazing?

Idyllic setting

with dappled shade

I played for an extra special wedding at the end of June. If you follow me on social media, you may have seen a few photos and I’ve included a few more with this blog post.

Atmospheric

The pond

I met Nikki and James at a wedding fayre last year at Wortley Hall. They were absolutely lovely and a bit quirky - my kind of people. They had quite an unusual request as exit music at the end of their civil ceremony - the main theme from the iconic 80’s movie, Back to the Future (BTTF).

Beautiful Bows

The ceremony room at Wortley Hall

You know me. I love a challenge and I’m particularly keen on 80’s music too. I think it’s brilliantly written. It’s interesting both harmonically and melodically and a lot of it works really well on the harp. I couldn’t remember how the BTTF theme went, so I listened to it when I got home. My initial thoughts were that it was fast but where there’s a will there’s a way and I’m not one to relinquish a challenge. James sent me links to some recordings as well as the piano sheet music, which I downloaded and printed off. I chipped away at the dots on the page for a few weeks, eventually slimming it down to a unique three page REH version I felt worked for the harp while retaining the features of the original music. I wanted the excitement of a whooshing DeLorean and Michael J Fox in a baseball jacket. Without his deafening guitar of course.

Labour of Love

It makes sense to me

Ten days before their wedding, Nikki, James and I set up a WhatsApp video call. They were in Cheshire while I was sat in my harp room and I was able to play them what was almost the finished version of BTTF. To my relief, it was met with approval, and I knew I still had time to make some last minute adjustments.

A long break

meant I could walk around and take in the stunning scenery. I’m no photographer but is it any surprise Wortley Hall is one of my preferred venues?

On the wedding day, I warmed up using BTTF to get me in the zone. Nikki wanted the traditional bridal march to accompany her entrance. I know that like the back of my hand, so I could focus on getting BTTF to sound good in the ceremony room. Nikki walked in with stunning simplicity and it was a very touching ceremony. Her father’s readings of two Shakespeare works made me blub a bit and I had to pull myself together! After all, I still had BTTF to play after I’d performed some classical favourites for the signing of the register and while they were having their photos taken.

Harp and chandelier

in the stunning Foundry Dining Room

I had another opportunity to play BTTF as Nikki and James had asked me to play it again as they walked into the Foundry Dining Hall at Wortley Hall where they were having their wedding breakfast. Now I know this piece works for the harp.

Do any of you lovely couples out there want me to play it, or any similar music, at your wedding? Feel free to get in touch! Click on the contact page if you have any special music requests for your ceremony.

EVERY wedding should have ice cream!

I managed to retain myself

Natural beauty everywhere you look - Wortley Hall Gardens

WEDDING FAYRES - AUTUMN 2019

Here’s a list of wedding fayres at which I’ll be exhibiting this Autumn, all courtesy of those lovely folk at Wedding Fayres Yorkshire:

15/9/2019 11am Huddersfield Town Hall
6/10/2019 11am Oulton Hall, near Leeds
20/10/2019 11am Dewsbury Town Hall
10/11/2019 11am Whirlowbrook Hall, Sheffield

Do keep checking here and on social media - I’m adding to this list all the time and I’m looking forward to meeting you. Come and have a relaxed, friendly chat about your wedding music! I’ve got some new music on my stand and a list of pieces I want to record, and another list I want to research, so if you’re looking for exceptional music for any event, do get in touch. I don’t just play for weddings either. My music can add a touch of refined elegance to your parties, anniversaries, corporate events, celebrations and Christmas too! Whatever your music requirements, come and listen to my harpbeat!

Freedom

Freedom - Just Like That! Image - John Steel Photography

It’s been another busy week here at Rhian Evans Harpist HQ. As the week has progressed, I’ve noticed I become more and more of a night owl. I’ve always been a late nighter ever since my days as an orchestral musician. It’s a job that demands that I’m at my peak between 7-10pm and I think that’s become ingrained. I’m most efficient in the evening and my best practice certainly happens at this time. More recently I’ve become an early morning person too, and I love a siesta! By Thursday night, supper time often happens after 11pm. I won’t even tell you what time bedtime is!

As a freelancer, every week is different and the past 10 days have meant that yesterday, a Thursday, was my day off. It’s usually a Tuesday but this week I had a few meetings to fit in. To cut a long story short, I find routines dull and difficult and I enjoy the variety a freelancer’s life offers. This means that occasionally, I’m unable to reply to emails and calls straight away but I always get back to anyone that’s interested in booking my services as a harpist and harp teacher. If you don’t hear back from me within 36 hours, there’s something seriously wrong!

Last night I started practicing at 6pm after another intense shift at the shop where I work part time. I hadn’t touched the harp since Sunday and yesterday I was asked to help restock the freezers. It’s one of my least favourite tasks as my hands take ages to thaw out afterwards, even with double gloves. I was feeling tired and a bit stale, so I decided to work on music I love for which I have a soft spot. After a creaky start, I felt myself free up, get into the zone and embrace the ebb and flow of the music. I could have kept going for hours. The increasing feeling of freedom was delicious and I felt reassured that I could still play. Gone are the indulgent days when I could easily rack up 4-6 hours practice without batting an eyelid. Like all musicians, practice doesn’t pay but performances do, so ideally we have to play for a minimum number of hours just to maintain the quality of sound and build confidence, and continue to play competently.

On Sunday I had a video call with a lovely couple whose wedding it is a week today. I can’t wait to play for them and their guests, and the unique piece of music they’ve chosen for their exit after their civil ceremony has met with their approval. Phew! This is a relatively new option I offer to couples if it’s an unfamiliar piece of music. It’s taken me a while to find ways to make the piece work on the harp but I’m pleased with the result. I think it’s recognisable. I might even make a short sound clip of it soon. So if you have a special request you’d love to have me perform for your wedding ceremony, go ahead and ask. Not everything works but I always try to accommodate your special requests given enough notice. And of course, the best way to listen to my harpbeat is at a live performance or wedding fayre.

The weather’s better isn’t it? And today marks the official start of Summer. Whoopee!

Wishing you a wonderfully warm weekend with lashings of delicious music!

Rhian Evans Harpist

Freedom

Bagden Hall Wedding Fayre

Elegant Eagles

in Yorkshire, not St Tropez

BAGDEN HALL

DENBY DALE, HUDDERSFIELD

SUNDAY 9TH JUNE FROM 11AM

I’m very excited to be playing my wedding favourites at Bagden Hall, a new venue to me a mere 20 minute drive away. I’m looking forward to meeting all you lovely couples interested in having beautiful customised live music tailored just for your wedding. I love to add a personal touch to any wedding celebration and Fayres are the ideal opportunity to meet me and see and hear what I have to offer.

Breathtaking setting

Bagden Hall

So if you’re getting married and you’re considering having live music on your special day, I do hope you’ll pop in to say Hi and listen to my harpbeat!

Duck!

I didn’t see any on my last visit though I’m optimistic about next Sunday…

Choosing Your Wedding Music

“Are you feeling confused about your choice of wedding music? Perplexed at the overwhelming array of options available to you? Here are a few tips on one of the most important aspects of your celebrations which sets the tone throughout your day”

I really love playing for weddings and it's a privilege to be closely involved in your special day.  Music is such a vital part of any celebration and especially the celebration of a loving relationship.  Over the years I’ve played at countless ceremonies and weddings and I know first hand the powerful impact the right piece of music can have.  My role is finding out which piece of music makes you tick and then adapting it to make it sound great on the harp.  To do this well and to give my own unique spin on a piece of music you love can take a while. From first listening to it to downloading a printed version online to making the piece yours can be a pleasantly time consuming process.  This means that you get your very own version of the song that has such significance for you.  This could be the first song you danced together to, or a song that was popular at the time you met.  

I recently met a couple at a wedding event who liked my playing and my music and they want a reggae classic for the bride's entrance music.  Intrigued, I asked if they could send me a link to the song to see if I could make it work.  Having listened to it, I know it’ll work and I feel quite excited about it.  With great lyrics, it's a lovely loving tribute from bride to groom, and most importantly I think it will sound gorgeous on the harp!

Thanks to technology and the internet now, the possibilities are endless.  I played for a civil ceremony in March and the bride was due to come and hear her request at a wedding event.  I was disappointed to find out at the last minute that the venue had decided to have a pianist instead without letting me know, putting me in a slightly awkward position with the bride-to-be who had planned to come and hear me play.  I got my thinking cap on and arranged a video call with her.  My lovely client was delighted with the end results! If you can’t meet me at a fayre, there are ways around this.

It's worth bearing in mind not everything works well on the harp and I'm happy to guide you in your choice of music.

If you're considering having live harp music at your wedding, here are some of the options I can offer:

Civil Ceremony

I’m set up and ready to play from 30 minutes before your ceremony and I play soothing background music from my repertoire list while guests await your arrival.  One of the key moments musically is your entrance.  It's important to get this one right so have a good think about this. You may have a specific piece of music in mind or you may need some ideas - either way I can help you choose the right piece for the mood you want to portray.  I then play for the signing of the register and while you have your photos taken, and finally I play a piece of your choice for your exit together.  

Registrars and venue staff are always delighted when you engage professional musicians - it takes the pressure off them having to press that button and it ensures the smooth running of your ceremony.

Drinks Reception (1 hour)

After your ceremony I can provide background music for you and your guests as you all enjoy your drinks and have your photos taken.  Please note that due to the unpredictable British weather, I don't play outside.  Some harpists do. I don't. The heavens could open either way at any moment and the worst things for my harp are direct sunlight or water.

Wedding Breakfast

Having live music can make a world of difference to the atmosphere while you have your meal, and again I can play from my broad selection of tried and tested pieces.

Church Ceremony

I love playing in the sacred and slightly more solemn setting of a church.  I set up well in advance of your ceremony time and I can play while your guests congregate.  A bridal march is appropriate and I have also played other requests in church.  

I can perform your hymns. Usually the church organist plays them - it goes with the setting and tends to rouse more singing!  I can play suitable background music while you sign the register and have your photos taken.  I can also play your exit music, or again you could have the organist play.  It all comes down to your personal preference.

I can offer a combination of the above options, although I don't do more than 2 elements. For example, Ceremony and Wedding Breakfast is fine but I wouldn't play for your Ceremony, Drinks and Wedding Breakfast - you can have too much of a good thing in my opinion.

The Money Question!  

My prices start from £250.  If you think this sounds like a lot, bear in mind the basic running and development costs of my business - website construction, hosting and updating, advertising, publicity photos and promotional materials, transport costs, harp strings, insurances and maintenance, buying sheet music, appropriate clothing and footwear, practice and training time, the dreaded tax bill, the list is long...  These expenses all contribute in providing you with the best wedding music experience I can possibly offer.

The easiest way to find out more about your choice of wedding music is by attending a wedding fayre, showcase or event and I do as many of these as I can.  If you have any questions you can get in touch by using the link to my Contact page above.  

I have plenty of wedding pieces in the Music section on this website and I update these on a regular basis. You can also view my videos here:

and listen to other sound clips here:

If social media is your thing, you can find out more about wedding fayres and my work on these platforms:

And if you see me looking quite intense and focused as I play at an event, do hang around for a chat - I occasionally come up for air and I'm much friendlier than I look when I play!

“I look forward to meeting you soon at a wedding fayre near you!”

To Hull And Back

Humber Bridge - am I the only one who sees harp strings?

It’s been another busy week here at Rhian Evans Harpist HQ. It was great to get away last weekend and be in orchestral harpist mode once again for a couple of days. I made a guest appearance with the Hull Philharmonic, playing the harp part for the hauntingly beautiful and challenging Viola Concerto by William Walton.

Velvet toned violist Tim Ridout took centre stage with authoritative humility. His performance featured some beautifully poignant characterful playing. The sturdy musician-ship of the Hull Phil was ably steered by Andrew Penny and it was an exciting performance. I realised I haven’t performed with orchestra since February and I felt a bit disorientated at first. I gradually allowed myself the spaciousness to absorb the multi-sensory experience of working within an unknown ensemble of musicians in the stately splendour of Hull City Hall. Feeling more relaxed by the second rehearsal, I really could get used to that role again, one I fell in love with at the tender age of 15 when I first played with Clwyd Youth Orchestra. Those were the days!

I had quite a scary moment at the end of the rehearsal when I couldn’t find my car keys despite emptying all my bags and pockets thrice. I dashed down to the security desk where Nick, the super friendly security guard handed them to me with a knowing look. The bench provided wasn’t adjustable so I went to the car to get mine. I was already in harpist mode and, preoccupied by thoughts of music, left my keys in the car door. Lucky me! Hull City centre on a Friday evening isn’t such a bad place after all!

Duck plant

Garden bed-side at Wortley Hall

On Sunday, the wedding fayre I’d been looking forward to didn’t quite go as I’d intended. I’d hoped to meet dozens of clients as excited and enthusiastic about my music as I am. My morning started well, with two sets of clients I met at the most recent Wortley Hall wedding fayre, who had come to finalise their music choices. Other than a little interest for 2020 and 2021, it was a bit of a damp squib despite the glorious weather.

Wisteria hysteria

at Wortley Hall. Artichoke plant in the foreground

People drifted past as I played to my harp’s content, and my music seemed to have little or no effect on them. Perhaps they’re drafting their enquiry emails as I type. Or maybe I need to buy a guitar and take singing lessons. I know from experience these things can take time and I’m optimistic I’ll get a couple of bookings eventually.

Idyllic car park

Wortley Hall just visible through those amazing trees

It was lovely to work with Wedding Fayres Yorkshire again, who ensured proceedings ran smoothly as always. I’m extremely grateful to Paris Tyrell of WFY who, with lightning speed, generously filmed and uploaded a short videoclip of me playing A Thousand Years to Instagram. I then shared it to Facebook so I’m learning slowly but surely. It might eventually make its way to YouTube. It hasn’t gone viral yet but it certainly looks like I’m down with the millennials. Well, as down with them as a 40 something harpist can be.

I’m generally an optimist and I prefer to look at the bright side, but I admit I’m struggling musically at the moment. I have no paid playing work until mid June, a thought that worries me. I’ve sat down and done some rough calculations and as it stands, I’m not breaking even with my harp performance work. I’m afraid I’ve lost a bit of motivation too, possibly due to this. I’m a teeny tiny individual trying to integrate a gigantic competitive hungry industry, and therein lies my problem. I don’t have the business acumen or financial backing necessary to kick start my wedding business in this day and age. This has led to me losing my musical mojo momentarily. I’m not commercially driven in the slightest. I love to play, and trying to build my business has taken me so far away from my playing that I scarcely practice anymore, let alone play for my own pleasure. I haven’t touched the harp since last Sunday, and I don’t like that one bit. I’ve taken on an additional 10 hours of shop work this week to secure June, and having that work is an absolute blessing. It keeps me sane and in the black.

Obsessed with music

Bloody rusty wrought iron treble clef from a recent walk run

One thing I’ve found to be an excellent substitute for performance and sharing my music is exercise. It must be the adrenaline and the endorphin rush that follows. In a similar way to practice, it’s awkward and uncomfortable at first, but after a while I find my rhythm, and there are even moments I enjoy feeling my body jiggling about, my feet slamming the tarmac vigorously. Having been told I don’t have a runner’s physique, I’m honouring the rebel within. I love the freedom, power and independence running offers me. Besides, it’s far healthier than some other options available!

Next week I’m off and if I have time, I’ll be putting my version of an out-of-office sign up here. I’m going AWOL and I can’t wait. I desperately need a change of scene to gain some clarity about my situation and perhaps some inspiration regarding a way forward. So there’ll be no blog post next week as I’m turning off my laptop and letting it gather dust for a few days.

See you again in June, and remember to keep loving live music! And maybe even living love music - think about it…

Wortley Hall skyline

Wortley Hall Wedding Fayre - Will I See You There?

RHIAN EVANS - HARPIST

listen to my harpbeat

Storthes Hall Park - The Venue

It’s been a busy old week here at Rhian Evans Harpist Headquarters, what with a full day teaching yesterday followed by a flying visit to the vet (she’s been off her food - after what was clearly a hideously painful hiss-worthy steroid shot, and then a traumatic nauseating car journey, she’s back to her playful vocal kittenish self today) before a big works do last night.

Happy Llwyd

Happy harpist

Today I’m resting up and practicing, as well as working my regular Saturday evening shift, before a busy day at an exciting new-to-me venue, Storthes Hall Park in Huddersfield. Click on the link below to register and find out more about tomorrow’s event:

I look forward to seeing you there if you’re in the area. Why not come along and listen to my harpbeat?

Image by John Steel Photography at Wortley Hall