Dear BACAHS Members and Friends,
Harpists and non-harpists alike were treated to an exceptional musical experience on Saturday, April 18, when Motoshi Kosako shared ideas and tips for “jazzing up” your harp playing. His teaching style was clear, engaging, warm and entertaining. When was the 
last time you saw someone pick up their harp like a guitar in order to explain the verticality of chords? The most informative and entertaining workshop also offered basic melody improvisation, options for adding zip to harmonies and melodies and even playing the blues.
In the evening, Motoshi, put these lessons to work during a two-hour recital in which he played his own compositions as well as songs by musical greats as diverse as Leonard Bernstein and Jimmy Hendrix. In the end, there were standing ovations and flowers for a really special performer.
In case you missed this event, Motoshi promises to come back and continue a series of workshops. In the nearer term, get your jazz fix on Saturday, May 23, when Deborah Henson-Conant will present a hands-on workshop and concert at Harps Etc.
Harps are provided for learning rhythm and harmony of the Blues, the use-it-anywhere “Slap Bass” technique and how to create basslines, riffs and comping—and you’ll learn what those words mean! Throughout, you’ll be playing the Blues.
That evening, Deborah will delight with a Solo Concert at 7:30pm.
These events take place at Harps Etc. in Walnut Creek and are co-sponsored by BACAHS. For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.Harpsetc.com.
In the classical world, there are two additional opportunities to hear Dominique Piana and Greg Allen Friedman perform their concert of “Songs of Longing and Belonging”. This beautiful concert of romantic songs for harp and tenor was delightful in San Francisco and can be heard again in Oakland on April 26 and San Jose on May 10. For more information, visit the chapter calendar.
Please send your member news, information about harps for sale, and any other information you would like to share with the harp community. In early May, we will distribute another monthly newsletter and want to be sure to include your updates. Please send your information to ayothers@yahoo.com.
Happy Harping!