Concert in Sturry with International Harpist, Robin Ward
On Saturday 19 June, International Harpist Robin Ward performed at St. Nicholas Church, Sturry, Canterbury, as part of his 2010 tour. This was a welcome return to Sturry for Robin following his very enjoyable and successful concert here in November 2009 when he performed a wide variety of music from the 17th century to the present day, including pieces by Trabaci, Froberger, Buxtehude, Parry, and Glinka, amongst others.
About Robin
Originally from New Zealand, Robin is currently based in the United Kingdom. He is a very unique musician, in that he both builds and plays his own instruments, and is one of only a handful of people in the world who play the Triple Harp. In February 2009 he released his first solo CD; No Pedals Attached.
The art of playing the Triple Harp is so rare that Robin had to start off by building his own instrument and ultimately teaching himself how to play it. He completed a Masters Degree in Baroque Harp in 2005, making him the first and only New Zealander to hold such a degree.
Prior to his studies on the Triple Harp, Robin's initial training was on the Pedal or Orchestral Harp, under the guidance of Carolyn Mills at Victoria University of Wellington, where he completed a Bachelor of Music (Hons).
Through his studies Robin worked with various regional orchestras and held the position of Principal harpist for the New Zealand National Youth Orchestra in 2000 and 2001. Robin has established himself both as a harp teacher and instrument maker and has performed as a soloist and as a member of ensembles throughout New Zealand, Australia, and the UK.
More Information
To find out more about Robin you can visit his website www.earlyharps.com.