Harp Olympics- Preliminary Round

by Susan McDonald and Linda Wood Rollo

The first book in the Harp Olympics Series, the Preliminary Round, is designed for the beginning harpist who does not read music. The emphasis is on rote learning and imitation, with the student imitating what the teacher demonstrates in simple finger exercises. The Preliminary Round begins with an Equipment Check, covering everything from the parts of the lever and pedal harp, to tuning, replacing strings and blister remedies. In the Workout section, students practice one- (and up to four-) finger exercises, glissandos, thirds and fifths, and muffling. In Games and Drills, basic note reading skills are developed and students learn about dynamics, levers and pedals, music signs and symbols, and basic improvisation.

As with all of the Harp Olympics books, qualifying Marathons at the end of each book will serve as a review of the material covered and be an incentive for the student to progress to the following stage. A special certificate is included, signifying a certain level of accomplishment, to be given to the student upon completion of each book.

All pieces composed or arranged by Susann McDonald or Linda Wood Rollo.

EASY LEVER OR PEDAL HARP.

Solos in the Preliminary Round include:

• The Harp Drum
• My Song
• Bunny Hop
• Glissando Round-Up
• Song of the Harp
• Fa, Sol, La, Do
• Lullaby
• FrFre Jacques
• The Clock Tower
• Glissando Waltz
• Patterns Suite
• Animal Suite