Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Russian Easter Overture:” Harp part, page 4
This Sunday afternoon I will be performing harp on the “Russian Easter Overture” for the third time. I love it when I get to repeat an orchestral work because I …
Enjoying the drudgery
Sometimes a piece reaches that in-between stage where it can truthfully claim almost all the right notes, correct timing, and a decent set of dynamics. And there the piece languishes, …
Attempts at a Sustainable Schedule
I was busy sewing away on my Halloween costume a few weeks ago. Costuming is one of my favorite hobbies. But some tasks, like gathering 9 feet of fabric into …
Stephanie Claussen: 2018 US National Scottish Harp Champion
This weekend I traveled to Edinboro, Pennsylvania to compete in the Edinboro Scottish Harp Competition and US National Scottish Harp Championship. My dear friend Emily put me up in her …
Motivated by the Beat: Spin Class and Harp Practice
I’ve been trying out spin classes this past year.
Spinning. You know – as in indoor cycling?
One of my harp students in responsible. She invited me, attended along with me, suggested …
Edinburgh International Harp Festival 2018
I experienced one specific conversation at least five times during the festival:
Sitting down at the dinner table: “Hi, my name is Stephanie.”
“Hello! I’m Anna.” (Or Caroline, or Helen.)
A moment of …
The Northern Harpist’s Winter Survival Guide
Perhaps the worst part of my job is the winter-time conflict between staying warm and looking professional, flawlessly groomed, elegant… harpist-like.
The harpist’s gig prep is not a simple waltz from …
A Performance Observed: Fear and Elation
March 25th, 2017
Yesterday I joined a visiting wind ensemble for a concert of Navarro’s “Clarinet Concerto N. 1” and David Maslanka’ “A Child’s Garden of Dreams.” I had played the …