One of Canada’s most joyous annual holiday traditions returns to Vancouver Island this month.
Winter Harp aptures the joyful spirit of the season with musicians and singers, clad in breath-taking medieval attire, performing a collection of music that ranges from familiar carols to Celtic and medieval music.
At theatre performances, magical backdrops of cathedral and snow set the stage for golden Celtic and classical harps, drums, temple bells, flutes, violin/fiddle and an assortment of beautiful ancient and rare instruments - including the ethereal-sounding bass psaltery (the only one like it in the world), the organistrum (an early form of the hurdy-gurdy) and the Swedish nyckelharpa.
“We’re thrilled to return in 2017,” says Winter Harp co-founder and musical director, Lori Pappajohn. “Winter Harp concerts both evoke and create beautiful memories. We remember the Christmas trees we decorated, the joy of spending time with loved ones, the anticipation of Christmas morning. At Winter Harp the carols we perform and the stories and poems we read take people into their memories. And they leave the concert with beautiful new memories. We’re looking forward to seeing old friends and new at the concerts.”
This year’s ensemble of outstanding artists welcomes special guest, Amy Stephen. A popular and multi-talented artist, Stephen is probably best known for her starring role in the popular Celtic band, Mad Pudding. Also joining Winter Harp for the 2017 tour is virtuoso multi-instrumentalist Bruce Henczel and acclaimed harpist Lani Krantz.
Winter Harp is pleased to announce the release of their new CD, Winter’s Eve - Gentle songs of Winter and Christmas, and it will be available for purchase at the show.
The 2017 Winter Harp Ensemble artists include: Lauri Lyster (percussion, vocals), Jeff Pelletier (flute, alto flute, bass flute, piccolo, penny whistle, bass psaltery), Krista Gibbard (voice, bass psaltery), Adam Henderson (narrator, percussion, organistrum), Lani Krantz (classical harp, vocals), Amy Stephen (Celtic harp, vocals, penny whistle, accordion, psaltery), Bruce Henczel (violin/fiddle, viola-cello, nyckelharpa, percussion), and Lori Pappajohn (Winter Harp director).
The tour hits Courtenay Dec. 7, Victoria Nov. 8, Nanaimo Nov. 9 and Duncan Nov 10.
More information on the show nearest you is available at the Winter Harp website.