The Course
The harp has played a major rôle at the Academy since the earliest days. In addition to studying solo, concerto and chamber repertoire, students also take part in regular classes in orchestral, operatic and contemporary performance, early harp, jazz and improvisation, technical advancement, art of teaching and harp ensemble concerts.

The Academy’s numerous orchestras and ensembles provide experience in all styles of performance from classical to avantgarde and jazz. In addition, the Academy regularly hosts masterclasses—and many students have achieved major successes in national and international competitions.

The harp department commissions new works annually, and its Harp Showcase concerts attract a wide audience.

Main sponsors: Salvi Foundation and Holywell Music.

2009-2010 Highlights
> Recitals by Gwyneth Wentink and the Park Stickney Trio
> Masterclasses with Gwyneth Wentink, Emmanuel Ceysson, Lucy Wakeford, Isabelle Moretti, Erika Waardenburg, Dr Ann Yeung and Skaila Kanga
> Academy Harp Ensemble Showcase concert in Duke’s Hall and recitals in Southwark and Bury St Edmunds Cathedrals, Regent Hall and Sounds New Festival, Canterbury
> 'Free on Fridays' concert: Chamber Music with Harp
> Lecture on Parish Alvars, ‘The Liszt of the Harp’, by Dr Ann Yeung
> Exchange programme with Amsterdam Conservatoire
> Demonstration of Camac MIDI Harp by Jakez François
> Skaila Kanga Harp Prize: 2010 winner Anne Denholm

Illustrious Past Students
Past students include Anne-Sophie Bertrand, Camilla Pay, Catrin Finch, Laurette Pope, Emma Ramsdale, Celine Saout, Suzanne Willison, Tanya Houghton, Nanako Murakami, Stephanie Beck and Claudia Studer.