Submitted by Jenny and Elizabeth Vo-Phamhi, harpists
On October 13, 2013, we were thrilled to have the opportunity to have a
master class with famous harpist Ann Hobson Pilot. Ms. Pilot is a graduate of the Cleveland Institute of Music, where she studied with legendary harp teacher Alice Chalifoux. Ms Pilot recently retired after forty years as principal harpist of the Boston Symphony Orchestra and as professor of harp at the New England Conservatory of Music and Boston University.
The master class, presented by the Bay Area Chapter of the American Harp Society and hosted by Harps Etc. in Walnut Creek,was very well-attended. Jenny played the first movement of the Handel Concerto, transcribed by Carlos Salzedo, and Elizabeth played Haydn Theme and Variations, also transcribed by Carlos Salzedo. We were nervous, because we had worked hard to prepare and wanted to do our best, but the atmosphere was so friendly and relaxed we found ourselves really enjoying ourselves as we watched the master classes before us. Other performers were Joffria Whitfield (Handel Concerto in Bb), Emily Madder (Sonata in A Major K113 by Scarlatti), and Victoria Schmidt (Lullaby by Schubert).
Ms. Pilot is a wonderful teacher. Among many other things, she stressed to us the importance of relaxing, closing the fingers, and consistency in fingering. She also particularly emphasized “shading”, and worked with the students to bring a greater variety of colors and tones to their pieces.
At the conclusion of the class Ms. Pilot graciously treated us to a performance of Chiquilín de Bachín and La Muerte Del Angel, two pieces by Argentinian Composer Astor Piazolla. Even through all the fast notes, she played with a full, rich, expressive sound that thoroughly conveyed the deep emotions present in both pieces.
Between and after the master classes, everyone mingled around light refreshments. It was wonderful to meet new friends and members of the BACAHS, and to catch up with other members we had met through other BACAHS events. What a lovely afternoon of learning and music-making with the harp!