Midwest Harp Festival Coming To Tulsa

By Rick Wells, The News On 6

TULSA, OK - The News On 6 recently received an e-mail about the Midwest Harp Festival.  It said we would be surprised at the music.  Rick Wells of course had to go give it a listen.

Lorelei Barton and three of her students, Mackenzie and Olivia Harp (yes, really) and Dana Maher were ready to demonstrate.

Dana Maher is pianist, but also plays the harp in a couple of Celtic groups.  The harp can be a solo instrument or played in an ensemble.

They say the music doesn't have to be high brow.  Lorelei Barton played some Scot Joplin Ragtime.

Diverse styles and tastes is why there's a Midwest Harp Festival.

"So, we can share what we have and what we know with others," said Lorelei Barton.

Barton says she thinks many harpists are still trying to create with the instrument to take it outside the expectations

"You will be surprised 'cause you haven't heard everything yet," said Lorelei Barton.

The festival is later this month in Tulsa.  A complete schedule can be found on their website.