What is Beginning in the Middle?

Beginning in the Middle is a weekendd seminar designed specifically for adult harp students at all skill levels. It is co-sponsored by Harp Column magazine and the Virginia Harp Center retail harp store. We have gathered the best world-class faculty to present a non-stop schedule of workshops, lessons, and concerts to inspire you and help you reach your goals.

Who should attend?

Most Beginning in the Middle participants are harpists over the age of 30 who play either lever or pedal harp as a hobby. Some may have begun their studies as children and come back to the harp after a long absence, but most started the harp as adults and have been playing a short time. Most participants are at beginning to intermediate skill levels. Those who have attended BITM for many years are now more advanced players, but still enjoy the guidance of our expert faculty. Regardless of playing level or experience, most participants come to meet other harpists, share ideas and stories, and have a great time.

All adult harp students age 18 or over are welcome to attend Beginning in the Middle.

What to expect:

Expect to attend activities throughout the day and evening and to be challenged with new ideas at every turn. Expect to meet many other harpists who share your views and experiences and also some who cause you to think in new and different ways. Expect to experience feelings of apprehension as you prepare for the seminar, but expect those feelings to turn quickly into excitement as you arrive and meet your fellow harpists and our outstanding faculty. Our faculty is not concerned with your level of ability or previous experience, only that you come with an open mind, a desire to learn, and a willingness to participate.

What to bring:

Bring casual, comfortable clothing for daytime activities. You may wish to bring something dressier for evening events. Some classes require that you have a harp with you in order to participate, while many others do not. Read the class descriptions to see which classes appeal to you; if you would like to take a class that requires a harp for participation, you ’ll need to bring your harp with you. If you are bringing your harp, please also bring a bench if you need one, a music stand, and your tuning key. (Label these items with your name as many look alike.) All other classes either do not require you to have a harp, or a harp will be provided for your use. You may still choose to bring your harp to the seminar even if you don ’t plan to attend a class which requires one, as it may come in handy during the weekend. (There are plenty of classes to choose from for those that cannot bring their own harp.) Bring a piece of music that you are working on if you would like to play in a group lesson. Bring a notebook or small tape-recorder to take class notes. (You may not tape-record the faculty concert.)

Location:

All events except the Friday night concert will take place inside the Williamsburg Hospitality House, in Williamsburg, Va. The Friday night concert will take place at the Williamsburg United Methodist Church, a short distance away. Dining options are plentiful in the hotel and in the nearby Williamsburg tourist area. Many restaurants are within walking distance.