Listening to the Harp in concert

When I worked at a library, we had a series of Christmas concerts in the foyer of the building, so patrons could hear music as they came and left. One of these concerts featured a harpist, who came early to set up with a giant case on wheels–it was taller than she was! I helped her carry her stool in and stood near her to turn the pages of her music while she played. The sound of the Celtic harp was very relaxing, almost mesmerizing. It was soothing and energetic by turns, but it was never intrusive, so people could browse for books while enjoying the music. Because the harp can play more than one note at a time, it can create a shimmering backdrop for the melody, or shine with a series of quick, bright arpeggios. I was really pleased to experience the harp during those Christmas concerts, and the music added a lovely atmosphere to the library that day.

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