Aisling Urwin

What is your name / where are you from?
My name is Aisling Urwin and I’m from Kenmare, tucked in between the wild Beara Peninsula and the regal Ring of Kerry.

How did you start playing the harp?
I saw it on tv when I was 9. The Late Late Show was on and someone was playing the harp. I must have been taken by it as I asked my parents if I could learn it and they very kindly started me out on my harping journey and brought me to lessons.

What does the harp mean to you?
The harp is such a massive part of my life and my identity. Sometimes I feel like it’s an extension of my body.. and allows me to express what I find difficult to put into words. Not only has it led me to travel the world through music, it has also connected me with so many wonderful, creative people and lifelong friends. The harp is also special to me because of its deep roots in the history, culture and folklore of Ireland. There is an eternal magic to this instrument that can be felt as the wind blows through the strings, in the swell of a slow air and in the pulse of a polka.

What do you like most about Lá na Cruite | Harp Day?
There aren’t many others who play the harp near where I live so it’s wonderful to be reminded that this is such a vibrant and versatile community.  It is a sweet thing to celebrate this instrument by lifting each other up as opposed to competing. Lá na Cruite creates unity and community and is a celebration of the harp and all it brings to this world.