Heather chats with learner harpist Zee about discovering the harp later in life and how music became part of a deeply personal healing journey.

They explore Zee’s musical background, performance anxiety, the role of music theory in learning, and how the harp has supported growth, creativity, and wellbeing.

In this episode:

• Zee’s first encounter with the harp through medieval reenactment and why the sound stayed with her for years

• How previous experience in singing, guitar, and music theory helped her approach learning the harp

• Reflections on performance anxiety following conservatory training and how this influenced her learning journey

• How the How To Harp mind pathway helped rebuild confidence and support performance in a safe environment

• Writing original music as part of processing grief and emotional experiences

• Research into historical ideas about music and healing, and how music can support wellbeing

• Zee’s hopes to use harp in therapeutic and hospice settings in the future

This is a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about identity, healing, creativity, and becoming a harpist later in life.

Host:

Heather Downie - Harpist, Principal Lever Harp Tutor at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Founder of How To Harp

Guest:

Zee Bishop - learner harpist and How To Harp member

Learn with us:

https://www.HowToHarp.com (membership, courses, retreats)

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