One of the highlights of the annual Glasbury Arts season, the Harp Summer School, returns for its 13th year with exciting new developments aimed at enhancing participants’ experience.

This year’s event will take place from August 20 to August 23 at Gwernyfed High School, offering a mix of workshops and masterclasses for harpists of all levels.

Students - whether beginners or advanced players - will explore four musical genres: Classical, Welsh Folk, Jazz and Improvisation, and arrangements for harp orchestras and ensembles.

The 2024 tutor lineup includes co-directors of music, Manon Browning (arrangements for harp orchestras/ensembles) and Eleri Darkins (Welsh folk music), alongside Emily Harris (classical) and Amanda Whiting (jazz and improvisation), who will be teaching on August 21 and 23. Associate tutor Rose Graham will once again work with younger participants.

Two concerts will take place during the summer school. On Thursday, August 21, tutors will perform in a special recital, while the grand finale on Saturday, August 23, will see students take to the stage in a showcase featuring more than 30 harps.

There will be three levels of teaching: advanced (grades 6-8, adult intermediate (grades 3-6), young people intermediate (grades 2-5) and beginners (grade 1 upwards). Participants do not have to have sat grade exams but will be playing music at these levels.

For the third year running, Glasbury Arts will also host its Composition Harp Competition for students who have achieved Grade 6 and above. Entries should showcase the beauty and versatility of the harp, with compositions submitted in written score format by 5pm on July 14 to [email protected]. The winner will be invited to perform at the final concert.

Early bird booking is now open, with discounted tickets available until Monday, March 31. Instalment payment options are also available - email [email protected] for details.

To book, visit www.glasburyarts.co.uk and follow the harp links.

The summer school is made possible thanks to the generous support of people and organisations, including Marie Carson, WJ Ricketts & Sons, Mid Wales Music Trust, and the Gwendoline & Margaret Davies Charity.