A wee message to you all from Isobel Mieras MBE, with whom we are so thankful to, and continues to be driving force behind our festival…
To me, it has been a great privilege to assist in organising this Harp Festival for the last 41 years. In that time I have worked with wonderful teams of volunteers and administrators, all of whom have contributed to nurturing and developing it from modest, but significant, beginnings into the internationally respected Festival of today.
Since 2001, I have filled the post of “Artistic Adviser” to the Festival. Truthfully that should be “Artistic Advice Taker” as so many of the fine performers we have featured over the years have been recommended by well-travelled colleagues, to whom I am eternally grateful.
For the last 12 years I have had the joyful experience of working alongside Patsy Seddon who joined me as “Joint Adviser.” At the end of EIHF 2024, I stepped back, knowing that future Festival programmes are in her safe hands. I am so grateful to everyone I have met –amazing performers, wonderful musicians, talented young players, inspiring teachers, dedicated volunteers and, of course, those who attend and support the Festival.
My special thanks go to Mary Scott, our Festival Co-ordinator for her constant quiet support. While confidently handing over much responsibility to Patsy, I guess I am really not stepping back as much as to one side, as, believe it or not, I am not yet ready for the knitting and the rocking chair (horrible stereotyping!).
I remain on the organising committee to help and support if required and hope to see you next April at a new and exciting Edinburgh International Harp Festival.
Isobel Mieras
