So I had choral society on Wed, it's our last week before the concert. We have two performances next week, but I havent been at the last 3 practices, so there were a few new songs. I will spend this weekend practicing my songs. Sorta got down Mozarts Requiem but i'm a little behind on Mass in C.
I stopped by the library but couldnt find the books I was looking for, so I'll do a little research in my room tonight and try again with the library tomorrow. Gotta get everything I need before the country goes on strike on Tuesday. I may be able to get into the actual school, as long as I can get by the picket lines, but I'll have to walk to campus cuz I wont be able to get a bus. But hey, that's cool, I get a day off from my busiest day and extra time to work on my paper.
Today I had a great Ireland and Music class. We had a harpist come in and talk about the original Irish harp, not like the harp they try to throw on us these days. It's a pretty impressive harp. The harp I got to play a little is a replica of the one in the Long Library at Trinity where you find the Book of Kells. Our harpist had recreated this metal strung harp after the oldest harp so far known to man, which dates back to pre 900ad! Because it's so much smaller than other harps, then the bass notes have to be more dense (thicker). If it was a larger harp, like the ones the other girls are playing, then the denseness comes from the length. But if the string is thicker, it will be harder to pluck. Soooo, they had the bass notes made of gold strings. The middle notes are silver and the highest notes are brass. It was pretty incredible to hold and play. Dad, thought you would get a kick out of it.
The harpist also mentioned that besides her strings are so incredibly expensive, only 3 have broken in the last 10 years, and when her strings break, she can melt them down and make new strings. But she's figured out that she'll spend less than a guitarist who's strings break regularly and who's strings are worthless after they break. Interesting thought.
I've always thought it would be so cool to learn how to play the harp! But since I have no skills when it comes to learning instruments, and the harp isn't exactly the most practical thing for someone like me--I never put too much thought into it--other than it's so beautiful and would be a very cool talent to have!
ReplyDeleteDad says that you will be the next Harpo Marx, except you don't have curly blonde hair.
ReplyDeleteI say it sounds like a very interesting class, and you've probably learned some facts about ancient harps that you'll never forget!
What's the strike about?