The motivation behind the ?layered solos ensemble effect? came from very successful learning and performing with the BegEnz harp books series.The idea is that the student harpist firstly learns a solo at level one. Then there are two versions of the solo, increasing in difficulty, and some parts which are accompaniment or harmonisation when they are played together. Harp one fits onto a fully levered 26 string harp (lowest string is C below middle C) and harps 2 and 3 fit onto 34 string harps.The first solo is always just a clear tune and single note accompaniment arrangement, so by the time they have successfully learnt this, and probably played it in the group, they know exactly how the piece sounds, and the structure of the arrangement. As they improve they can play a more challenging version, and/or stick to the easier part if playing in a group feels trickier. It?s all about having the confidence to take the next step up!The best thing about layered arrangements is that there is a good chunk of each version that can be used as a solo so you are practicing something that you can play without needing other harps to fill out the parts, but when you bring it all together you are still practicing very important ensemble skills ? listening to others, staying in time, being in tune, and being adaptive as a musician in a group.

Ten Carols for Two Harps - this is particularly aimed at the student and teacher harpist working together, and sometimes working online together. Harp 1 is the easier part, and Harp 2 is at an intermediate level - perfect to use with a student and teacher in the build up to Christmas. Generally the students starts each piece by playing the main tune, but in most arrangements, the student switches over and accompanies or harmonises the tune with Harp 2. The book contains a variety of keys, time signatures, a couple of lever changes.

Christmas Carols included:

O Come Emmanuel

The First Nowell

Christ was Born on Christmas Day

Away in Manger (2 versions)

Infant Holy

Joseph and Mary (2 versions)

Silent Night

Seashells, Christmas Bells, composed by Anna Dunwoodie

Dona Nobis Pacem

Campana Sobre Campana