Lá na Cruite, National Harp Day October 20 2018 was a resounding success – another heart-warming response from harpers all over Ireland and farther afield. Bhí ceol binn beo na cruite le cloisteáil ag ceardlanna, seisiúin, coirmeacha ceoil, leáchtanna agus taispeántais i ndéanamh cruite. Audiences from Donegal to Dingle, from Belfast to Bandon were treated to the wonderful sound of harp-playing at concerts, sessions, Harpathons, pop-up sessions, talks and demonstrations of harp making.  Harping friends in the Isle of Man, Greece, the USA, and as far away as New Zealand joined us to celebrate our national instrument.

A big thank you to the Arts Council, RTÉ lyric fm and all the local coordinators, who rowed in behind us. We couldn’t do it without you!  Míle buíochas daoibh ar fad.

This was our second major initiative to promote Ireland’s national instrument, encourage more people to learn the harp, attract new audiences and recognise the harp’s unique place in Irish musical and cultural life. Harp events took place at a number of key venues in cities and towns nationwide including Armagh, Belfast, Dublin, Mayo, Galway, Limerick, Laois, Louth, Meath, Cork, Wexford. Audiences from Donegal to Dingle, from Belfast to Bandon were treated to the wonderful sound of harp-playing at concerts, sessions, Harpathons, pop-up sessions, talks and demonstrations of harp making.

Associated harp events happened virtually with our harping friends in the Isle of Man, Greece, the USA, and as far away as New Zealand. 2018 saw a significant increase in the number of harpers from Northern Ireland taking part, and we were delighted to welcome them on board. Thanks to one and all for taking part. Go mbeirimid beo ar an am seo arís.

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