Classical and Romantic music written for the harp by composers such as Debussy and Handel have always attracted Stephanie because of the challenge they present and the hours of intense practice they require. Yet she often prefers the ancient harmonies and rich history of the Celtic harp to its more modern counterpart.
Capturing the Mood of Celtic Harp
She began studying Celtic music with her first harp teacher Catherine Victorsen, who taught her to communicate the heart of each tune, whether it be a jig, a lullaby or a lament. Stephanie learned traditional ornamentation and accompaniment in workshops with such harp experts as Isobel Mieras and Kim Robertson. She also received hands-on experience in the daily music jam at the Minnesota Renaissance Festival where she has performed for over fifteen seasons as a wandering minstrel.
Dance tunes and airs from Scotland and Ireland remain at the core of her repertoire.
Stephanie Claussen has performed at the following fairs and festivals:
- Harmonic CONvergence
- Minnesota Scottish Fair and Highland Games
- Minnesota Renaissance Festival
- Northern Lights Music Festival
- Powderhorn Park Art Fair
- Ren in the Glen
- St. Anthony Park Art Fair
- Stone Arch Bridge Festival
- Summer Institute 2017, American Harp Society
