Image courtesy of Ruth Rosenthal
Camilla’s harp recital was, as we knew it would be, delightful and very much appreciated by our enthusiastic audience – including Boris the ginger cat who joined us for most of it. For those of you who were unable to be there, here are a few little tasters – and also part of the introduction that she gave us to her instrument and its ability to calm turbulent souls. The pieces she played reached from Bach to contemporary film music – Camilla’s own especial passion and where she now does most of her work.
Recording film music is far from the walk in the park that you might imagine. Indeed, it can be very much more challenging than playing a well known piece as part of a familiar group. Because of the nature of making films, the music is often only composed, or at least finished, as it is being recorded. This means not only that rehearsal time is minimal if existent at all but, because the harp is tricky to compose for, Camilla often needs to make her own transcription of the scores she is given to make them even playable. Definitely challenging…
So first, Claude Debussy’s Première Arabesque – as Camilla said, Debussy’s music is just so perfect for the harp.
Very different – but no less enjoyable – was the Argentinian composer Astor Piazzolla’s Invierno Porteno.
And if you would like to hear her play the theme from the Godfather as promised – check in to our Instagram account.
And here she is talking about her harp – and its encounter with a horse!
Meanwhile, for those who think an evening’s music can only be improved by being followed by good food and wine, this was the red Camargue rice, smoked tofu, chestnut, wild mushroom, ginger, turmeric and pomegranate seed pilaf that was served after Camilla had finished playing.
It was accompanied by some home roasted gammon and a salad of cauliflowers, broccoli, butter beans and anchovies….
Upcoming concerts:
Sunday 2nd April – Highgate Society Lunchtime concert
Jonah Phillips and his group – piano, bass & drums
Book here – £15 to include copious quantites of Bucks Fizz
Sunday 7th May – evening – The Hanover Square Quartet
Music by Felix and Fanny Mendelssohn and Emilie Mayer.
Book here – £28 to include buffet supper and wine
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I love listening to the harp- especially so close up and personal. Camilla was so generous with her time when answering questions and explaining about the instrument.
Thank you