March 14, 2009: Irish Spring Festival Harp Workshops, Ireland, WV

On Saturday, March 14, from 10 AM all day long, harpists from near and far gathered in the tiny Lewis County village of Ireland, WV. Here, local folks have celebrated their Irish Spring Festival since 1982. John Lozier, Executive Director of Harping for Harmony Foundation (HHF), first brought a harp to the festival 16 years ago. Since then, HHF has offered free harp workshops for beginners, and a free concert for the general public.

This year, Lozier returned to the festival after three years absence during which other harpists have continued the Ireland festival tradition. Meanwhile, Lozier spent time visiting harpists in Venezuela. This year in Ireland he offered workshops teaching some of the tunes and techniques he has learned in South America.

"Most people are unfamiliar with Latin American harp music," says Lozier. "I think people will find it very appealing, challenging, and interesting."

Workshops and concert were held, as every year, at the Ireland United Methodist Church. Workshops are scheduled for 10 AM (beginners) and 1:30 PM (intermediate and advanced). The concert, set for 6 PM, will feature any harpists present who wish to perform, including even some new beginners.

As always, extra harps were available for beginners. There was no charge for workshops or concert, and no advance registration required.

This annual event is sponsored jointly by the Shamrock CEOS Club and Harping for Harmony Foundation.

Directions from Morgantown to Ireland, WV here.

For more information, contact John Lozier (304 599 8233 or 304 276 5141)