It’s been another busy week here at Rhian Evans Harpist HQ. As the week has progressed, I’ve noticed I become more and more of a night owl. I’ve always been a late nighter ever since my days as an orchestral musician. It’s a job that demands that I’m at my peak between 7-10pm and I think that’s become ingrained. I’m most efficient in the evening and my best practice certainly happens at this time. More recently I’ve become an early morning person too, and I love a siesta! By Thursday night, supper time often happens after 11pm. I won’t even tell you what time bedtime is!

As a freelancer, every week is different and the past 10 days have meant that yesterday, a Thursday, was my day off. It’s usually a Tuesday but this week I had a few meetings to fit in. To cut a long story short, I find routines dull and difficult and I enjoy the variety a freelancer’s life offers. This means that occasionally, I’m unable to reply to emails and calls straight away but I always get back to anyone that’s interested in booking my services as a harpist and harp teacher. If you don’t hear back from me within 36 hours, there’s something seriously wrong!

Last night I started practicing at 6pm after another intense shift at the shop where I work part time. I hadn’t touched the harp since Sunday and yesterday I was asked to help restock the freezers. It’s one of my least favourite tasks as my hands take ages to thaw out afterwards, even with double gloves. I was feeling tired and a bit stale, so I decided to work on music I love for which I have a soft spot. After a creaky start, I felt myself free up, get into the zone and embrace the ebb and flow of the music. I could have kept going for hours. The increasing feeling of freedom was delicious and I felt reassured that I could still play. Gone are the indulgent days when I could easily rack up 4-6 hours practice without batting an eyelid. Like all musicians, practice doesn’t pay but performances do, so ideally we have to play for a minimum number of hours just to maintain the quality of sound and build confidence, and continue to play competently.

On Sunday I had a video call with a lovely couple whose wedding it is a week today. I can’t wait to play for them and their guests, and the unique piece of music they’ve chosen for their exit after their civil ceremony has met with their approval. Phew! This is a relatively new option I offer to couples if it’s an unfamiliar piece of music. It’s taken me a while to find ways to make the piece work on the harp but I’m pleased with the result. I think it’s recognisable. I might even make a short sound clip of it soon. So if you have a special request you’d love to have me perform for your wedding ceremony, go ahead and ask. Not everything works but I always try to accommodate your special requests given enough notice. And of course, the best way to listen to my harpbeat is at a live performance or wedding fayre.

The weather’s better isn’t it? And today marks the official start of Summer. Whoopee!

Wishing you a wonderfully warm weekend with lashings of delicious music!

Rhian Evans Harpist