For a half century, Janet Harbison has been a leading figure in traditional Irish harping as a performer, composer, arranger, teacher and ensemble director. Many of Ireland’s leading harpers today emerged from her multi-award winning Belfast and Irish Harp Orchestras – and now she offers her experience, expertise and a vast resource of music
“As Riverdance popularised Irish dancing and Brendan Voyage brought the uilleann pipes to a wider public, so the Irish Harp Orchestra is animating a huge interest in the Irish harp - and it’s almost entirely due to Janet and her modern mix with tradition”
“Our national treasure”
“Janet, your music – it’s wonderful”
“One of Ireland’s most accomplished women, a charismatic leader, a cherished teacher, a quintessential performer - and a comedienne… ”
"Janet Harbison is an indomitable lady. Having assembled a cast of more than 70 for the Belfast Harp Orchestra's showcase at the Waterfront….[she] more than achieved their stated aim of presenting the music, song and dance of Ulster in magnificent fashion."
The harp is Ireland’s national emblem but also an iconic tradition of Scotland and Wales. For me it is our shared history and heritage. It is my privilege to play – to invigorate or to comfort – to inform or inspire – to play with you or for you – and perhaps lead you in a carousing tune or two.
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