Although born in Christchurch, New Zealand to Dutch Immigrants in the 1960’s, I learnt the harp in The Netherlands, whilst living there during my primary school years.

My mother had sent me to music theory classes when I was eight. Then, at age ten, I was taken to a concert at the local town hall, where I was introduced to various musical instruments. It was love at first sight – as soon as I saw and heard the harp, I was hooked! Such a beautiful instrument, such an enchanting sound, and so graceful in its execution!
 
My first lessons were from the late Melanie Dietrich, and it was there that I realized that playing the harp wasn’t just about running your fingers up and down the strings; there was actually a technique to master!.

Our family moved back to New Zealand in 1978 and in Christchurch at that time, there were no actual harp teachers. I was only able to have a few lessons from a visiting American harpist, Nancy Haber, and a couple from Jan Christensen, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra’s principal harpist at the time. This was discouraging, and although I played in a small group at church, I gave up “learning” for many years.

It wasn’t until I moved to Auckland in 1989, and had been there a few years, that I re-discovered my love for the harp.

I was able to take lessons again, this time from Dutch harpist Annemieke Harmonie, and it was through her that I discovered how much fun and rewarding it could be, playing the harp for other people. I remember some fantastic trips with our group of harpers to places like Waiheke Island, and even staying the night on Great Barrier Island, so we could play for the locals the next day. Imagine if you will, about 10 to15 harps on the ferry, followed by these same harps and harpers squeezing on to the local bus - certainly not something you see every day!

It was in Auckland that I had a go at teaching, encouraged and persuaded by Annemieke, who needed someone to cover for her while she was overseas for four months. I loved it – I could see how special the harp was to other people. From the seven year old girl, who was just eager to learn and play pretty sounds, through to the sixty year old lady, whose children had all grown up, and who now had time for something just for herself.

Now, back in Christchurch again, this time with a family of my own, I am ready to get back into teaching again, as well as playing for people, be it at weddings, rest homes, or anywhere else. I believe that the harp is particularly suited to healing, through playing or listening, and the healing aspect is something I would like to pursue in the future.

Tree Song Harp Duet