Ann & Charlie Heymann (US)

Ann Heymann and her husband Charlie are coming to Australia for the World Harp Congress and bringing with them an array of early instruments including harps built in conformity with ancient Celtic traditions strung with gold and horsehair.

Ann Heymann is widely recognised as a leading performer and authority on the clairseach, the historic wire-strung harp of Ireland and Highland Scotland. Scotland's Carsach Society describes her as "the pioneer who returned the Gaelic harp to a living tradition."

For over 30 years Charlie Heymann has complemented Ann, both instrumentally and vocally, with song, recitation and, more recently, in their first performances of mediaeval syllabic poetry with harp.

Together, Ann and Charlie have researched the mythology, history and music of Insula Celtic harps to recreate the sounds of the past, including Bardic and Christian chants, historic ayres and dances, and stately music from the courts of Queens Mary and Elizabeth.

This special 'seminar-concert' at Humph Hall offers the chance to ask questions, learn about ancient traditions, meet the instruments, and bathe in the music.

Visit Ann & Charlie's web site.

Watch a YouTube clip.

See photos taken on the night.

Bookings advised: Wayne (02) 9939 8802.