The Loch Roag harp/clarsach tuition workshops have quietly established an enviable reputation as one of the top international clarsach tuition camps.

"A wonderful welcome, hospitality, food, friendship, teaching and encouragement."

Not least, this is because of the tutors who are two of Scotland's finest clarsach players and teachers and an inspiration to everyone, whatever their level of ability.

"Best learning experience yet!"

Wendy Stewart is firmly established as a performer, teacher, writer and communicator of some of the finest and most enduring harp music in Scotland today. Alison Kinnaird is recognised as the foremost player of historical Scottish harp music and has a reputation throughout the world as a performer and teacher of wire- and gut-strung harps. Add to this a cocktail of the most stunning natural environment, excellent food and catering, and some wonderful musical ceilidhs and you have a recipe for a truly memorable experience.

"Fabulous company, hospitality, views and music!!"

Set in the Outer Hebrides, the Gaelic heartland of Scotland, the course introduces players of the small harp and clàrsach to the techniques of playing Highland music in the traditional style.

"Tha seo direach sgoinneil!"

The tuition course covers playing techniques, ornamentation and harmony. Teaching is by ear, though music will be available as an aid to memory. The ability to read music is not necessary. We also record the tunes during the workshop and produce a CD to take away and practise with.

We accept a maximum of twelve participants which will make it ideal for teaching to all levels of ability. Time and break-out sessions are provided for individual or small group practice. Teaching in one large group can be very inspiring for all - whatever your level of ability everyone adds to the overall ensemble playing. Over the years the workshops have attracted absolute beginners, keen amateurs and professionals. It can be thrilling for everyone to be part of this wonderful overall sound.

"I loved learning new songs and tunes (Laura,
aged 11)"

Ideally you should bring your own clàrsach or small harp, however we appreciate that for some travelling a very long distance this can be difficult. Through our local clàrsach society we do have a limited number of harps available to rent but you will need to reserve early if you are interested.

"A truly wonderful holiday as well as musical experience."

On some evenings we have musical ceilidhs and you will be encouraged to share in the evening of music, song, stories and dance. Other evenings are free to allow you to explore the islands' amazing and varied sites (follow this link for more) or just take it easy, practice your harp or share an evening meal with fellow harpers.

"Magical!."

The week-long workshops run each day from 10am till 3.30 except on the Monday. This timing provides space for individual practice as well as time to explore other parts of the island. "A magical dream realized. Absolute perfection. Inspired to master my harp!" Monday morning tuition does not begin till 12 noon and runs till after 5pm. This is to facilitate late arrivals. There is no Sunday ferry to or from the island, so this later start allows you time to travel here at the beginning of the week. There are however Sunday airflights. After the tuition on that first day, there is a short break till we meet again for the evening meal. This meal, which is provided within your course fee, starts at about 7pm. The meal is followed by a ceilidh gathering in which you and any others visiting with you are invited to join. To summarise, the timetable looks like this: Monday Start 12 noon. Playthrough, get to know each other Lunch at 1pm Afternoon session 2-5pm Dinner and ceilidh starts 7pm Tuesday through Friday Start 10am Lunch 12.30-1.30 Afternoon 1.30-3.30/4pm The weekend timetable (Wendy's 3-day course 8-10 September 2006) is slightly different. We will again have a late start so you can fly in on the Friday morning. We will kick-off at 12 noon and run through till tea-time. On the other days tuition will be from 10am till about 4pm, with a break for lunch. On the Friday and Saturday nights we will have a buffet dinner followed by a ceilidh gathering, starting at about 7pm.