Close Encounters of the Harpist Kind

I have a part-time job at the fabric store near my house. Usually this job and my harp career don’t overlap, but just this last week I had two ‘harp encounters’ at work.

I was working at the cash register and a college student with her mom walked up to make their purchase. They commented on my name tag since apparently the daughter, whose name is Emily, used to have a teacher who called her Stephanie since there were multiple Emilys in the class. This seemed like a slightly odd nickname to me, but maybe I just didn’t hear the whole story.

I responded with a true (and somewhat relevant) fact, “I am a professional harpist – I teach harp lessons – and right now I have three students named Emily.”

They began laughing. “She’s a harpist too!” her mom explained.
“What! That’s awesome,” I said.
“Are you accepting new students?” asked Emily.
“Are you looking for a harp teacher?” I replied.
“Actually, I’m leaving to go back to college next week so I won’t be around, but maybe next summer…” she said. I hope so!

I gave her my email address. It looks like I won’t end up having four Emilys in my studio for the moment; however, if anyone else reading this is named Emily, it might be a sign that you should consider lessons…

The second harpist to come through my line at the fabric store was wearing a brace on her right hand. I commented, “I have a brace just like that at home.”

“Oh really? What for?” she asked, interested.
“Tendonitis. I’m a harpist.” (I developed tendonitis while preparing for my senior recital at the University of Minnesota: one of the reason why I think it is so important to play with correct hand posture. My hand therapist was able to create a brace for me that I could wear even while practicing!)

“Oh me too!” she said.
“You play harp? Really? What’s your name?”
“Barbara. What’s yours?” And we chatted for a few moments until the lady in line behind her got (understandably) impatient and we were forced to conclude our conversation.

These two ‘chance’ encounters made my week. I want to meet more harpists at work. Emily or Barbara, if you read this, send me a message. I would love to make your further acquaintance!

Next post: 32 Reasons I Love the Minnesota Renaissance Festival

Stephanie Claussen is a professional harpist from Minneapolis, Minnesota. She performs on her harp throughout Minnesota in various concerts, recitals, and collaborations with other musicians. Consider signing up for her e-mail newsletter to be notified directly of upcoming performances and announcements.