Sally started the harp as a young girl, went the conservatory route and became a trained classical player – then left the harp for decades – and only returned when she was nearing retirement as a librarian. In addition to reigniting a lifetime of harp skills, Sally has returned to the harp with a hunger for freedom.

“When I started this venture, I didn’t know how to improvise to save my soul. I was convinced I couldn’t create an arrangement even though I could read music. Then I joined the Academy – and all that changed”

Margi’s journey was very different. She didn’t even start playing the harp until after retirement, and once she did, she immediately wanted to use her new skill in service – playing for others in nursing homes and care facilities.

“I only started playing harp when I retired so it’s brand new for me. When I joined the Academy, I started out trying to obey all the rules as if I were taking a college course — and then I realized I can do anything I want belonging to this Academy. I don’t have to be a ‘good student’ — I get help with MY real-world musical goals, like learning to get away from the notes on the page and look directly into the eyes of the people I play for.“

“The total amount of music theory and musicianship I have learned from you in the past two years is mind-blowing, and perhaps greater than the total of everything else that preceded it. Not to mention the personal creative growth – Kathy King (Harpist, Singer & Reiki Master)

“When you start playing the harp at 68, after retiring, it’s easy to be brutal with oneself! Your reminders to not expect perfection and be kind and forgiving were greatly appreciated! “ – Suzy Baggett

“You are an inspiring, outstanding, and exceptional teacher and I am thankful each day to be a student in the academy, it’s moving my playing forward and giving me an international harp tribe, thank you!” – Sharon

“Deborah, thank you for inspiring me to give myself permission to become a more empowered ME on the harp!” – Maryanne

“You make me feel that the sky is the limit and that everything is possible.”(CSJ)

“The enthusiasm and camaraderie of those who are already your students makes it clear that working with you is a SAFE place to be open and vulnerable AND it’s the perfect opportunity to join the Really Cool Kids. Hell, it made ME want play harp!” – Nikki Jackson (Artist)

“Now I feel more confident about making my IHTP application recordings. You are the cure for performance anxiety!” (Laura)

“I love how you keep it real and think out of the box all at the same time, and I love both the fun and profound sides of what you express and explore.” (TM)

“Freedom from paper!” (Kathleen)

“It is such a treat to have a teacher who has done great things herself and can come back to earth long enough to share it.” (SJJ)

“Your enthusiasm is totally contagious!!!” (Anne)

“I’ve been reading music since I was 7 years old. but never made connections like you’re having us do. It’s like taking french in high school and being able to read the words but not understanding what you’re saying. You’re helping me understand what I’m playing – and that’s what’s been missing for me.” (Kim)

So let me ask you… what MISSING that would make THE DIFFERENCE for YOU – not just in your harp playing, but in your life? Is it:

• Freedom to express yourself fully?
• A supportive creative community – a safe place to let go of “doing it right” all the time?
• A mentor who truly sees you – and is deeply touched and inspired by who you uniquely are?
• The step-by-step breakdown of how each aspect of music actually works and how it can work for YOU – exactly as you are, right now?
  
• The tools and skills to develop YOUR unique creative voice?

Because all that is Hip Harp Academy

Where music is about CONNECTION … not Perfection.