24 Jan 2011

Inside Out London: Making The Harp Hip

The harp's image has always been seen as somewhat regal. However, all that is changing and the time has come for the harp to be hip.
In the past the instrument tended to be associated with classical concerts, folk music or musicians playing at weddings, eisteddfods and on cruise ship liners.
This most ancient of instruments is now going through a rock and roll renaissance as illustrated by artists such as Joanna Newsom, Dizzee Rascal and Florence and the Machine.
Tom Moth is Florence and the Machine's harpist and he is happy that the harp's image is changing.
"People have still got this very fixed impression of what the harp is and what it is used for. And it would be nice if hopefully at some point people come to accept it in other forms of music.
"I don't see any reason why harps shouldn't be accepted in that scenario anymore than guitars. It's not the instrument, it's how you play it."
The harp is also a big part of Lucinda Belle's life. She started playing when she was six and has developed a life-long passion for the instrument.
Lucinda said, "It's so important that we keep this alive."
BBC Inside Out London, Monday 24 January, BBC One at 7.30pm.

Tom Moth F+TM's harpist will be featured in this program.

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