Liehsja
Healthy Harp Technique
Technique that works with your body
Playing the harp is often a dream we carry for many years — and it can become a reality at any age. Sessions with Liehsja place you and your favourite music at the centre. Learning by ear is the quickest way to develop sound technique, with the option of introducing music reading later, if and when it feels right.
Lessons can open many doors beyond simply learning pieces. There is space to explore composition and arrangement, to play with others in ensemble settings, and to develop the confidence to join informal folk sessions or perform at events and festivals. Whether you are returning to music or starting for the first time, the focus is always on finding a way of playing that feels natural, enjoyable and uniquely your own.
If you wish to sing with the harp, this is also supported and encouraged, with guidance offered from the very beginning.
I have been offering harp lessons for children at various schools and from my home in Sussex, near East Grinstead, for over 20 years. Every student is unique, and lessons are shaped to support the individual, with a range of learning pathways available.
Students are encouraged to play by ear from the very beginning, supporting the development of pitch and deep musical listening. At this early stage, correct technique is essential for building healthy habits, so the focus is on watching and understanding the hands rather than reading music. This allows students to play tunes and songs they love straight away, while the technical foundations settle in naturally. Once kinaesthetic memory is established, music reading is introduced as an exciting and enriching tool.
A strong emphasis is placed on developing a growth mindset — learning to listen, adapt, and enjoy the process of discovery. Students are encouraged to explore the harp with curiosity and a sense of adventure, building confidence as they go, without fear of getting things wrong.
Along the way, we explore harmony through chord structures and sequences, opening the door to arranging and, for many, composition. Some students develop a real passion for creating their own music.
Festivals & Events
There are also many opportunities to play beyond lessons. The Advent Fair is a yearly highlight, where students perform their own arrangements of Christmas carols. Another favourite is the opportunity to join the Weaver Bird Harp Ensemble at the Forest Row Festival, performing alongside local guest musicians in a wide range of styles, from traditional Irish to Mamma Mia to jazz.
Local folk sessions at the Hop Yard Brewery offer a relaxed and welcoming space for students to develop their confidence, play with others, and experience the joy of making music together.
Orchestral Playing
Students also have the opportunity to take part in an annual orchestral project, performing alongside professional musicians in a theatre setting as part of the Kidbrooke Park Music Festival.
Some choose to join the National Youth Harp Orchestra (NYHO), which provides valuable music reading experience, along with opportunities to perform in inspiring venues and, at times, to tour abroad.
Examinations
I also offer ABRSM examinations for those who wish to follow a more traditional pathway. Students consistently achieve excellent results, up to Grade 8, and I offer music theory tuition up to Grade 5.
Steiner School Music & Community
I have worked as harpist accompanist at the local Steiner school, where I have played at the Advent Fair and the Advent Spiral. These are among the most atmospheric occasions in the Steiner calendar, and the harp brings something quietly essential to both. It has been a privilege to be part of that musical life within the school community. The recorder, so central to Steiner music education, is something I grew up playing myself — and I enjoy supporting children through their recorder learning, finding it a natural bridge into broader musical understanding, developing pitch awareness, breath control, and confidence in ways that complement harp study beautifully.
Music Theory
Music theory runs throughout my teaching from the very beginning — not as an abstract discipline, but woven naturally into the experience of playing. Students develop an understanding of harmony, structure, and notation as a living part of their music-making. Formal theory tuition up to Grade 5 is also available for those preparing for ABRSM examinations.
The Forest Row Festival
One of the highlights of the year is the Forest Row Festival, where I bring together an ensemble of up to 19 harpists — students of all levels performing alongside local guest musicians. I programme and arrange all of the music myself, creating parts that give every player a meaningful and enjoyable role, whatever their stage of development. The repertoire spans traditional Irish, folk, classical, and popular music, and the event has become a genuine celebration of what harp students can achieve together.
Communication & Writing
Alongside my musical training, I hold an MA in English from Sussex University. I care about clear, thoughtful communication — in written correspondence, in reports, and in the lesson room itself. Being able to explain ideas well, and to listen carefully, is something I consider as important in teaching as musical knowledge.
Schools
Testimonial
Hearing the harp for the first time at 8 years old, my daughter asked for lessons. I started the search for a teacher and struck gold in finding Liehsja. At the trial lesson I saw first hand that we had embarked on a special journey. Liehsja is a highly accomplished performer and has that rare combination of being able to teach as well as she plays. She has nurtured and inspired my daughter every lesson. Learning by ear to begin, the art (and joy!) of improvisation, as well as notes and more formal playing have allowed for success in so many areas of music making. From busking to folk nights, gigs and background music, ABRSM exam passes with distinction and festivals, Liehsja facilitates endless creative opportunities.
Whether you're a beginner or experienced, Liehsja differentiates scores and music so every harpist has their place and can participate in the many group events available. I know the hard work and dedication it takes to learn an instrument to a high standard and one of the greatest gifts my daughter has had is that this process has been endlessly rewarding, meaningful and fun.
