Four of the songs are assigned by division and the fifth is a song of choice. She is required to memorize five solos, each at least three minutes in length. Ramsey practices at least an hour a day in preparation for the competition. Ramsey is one of nine competitors in the Intermediate 1 division. The competition is divided up into four divisions by age group. To be selected to compete in Mexico City, Ramsey had to submit an online application, including a video audition and letters of recommendation. “I’m really excited to compete because this is my first time doing anything like this, and I’m excited to represent the United States,” Ramsey said. She used to bring her harp to Irish dance competitions where she would compete in both dance and music. competitors selected to compete.īefore The Mexico International Harp Competition and Festival, Ramsey only competed at smaller, more local competitions and venues. 10, Ramsey will travel to Mexico City to compete amongst the top harpists in the world at The Mexico International Harp Competition and Festival. Since beginning private lessons in third grade, Ramsey has made strides competitively, improving and learning the techniques she once admired. Inspirations like Stickney motivates Ramsey to learn new techniques on the harp and push herself to broaden her repertoire.
#Lyon and healy harp competition professional
When sophomore Catherine Ramsey attended her first professional harp concert at the Lyon and Healy Harp Factory downtown Chicago, she was amazed at the incredible techniques Pat Stickney, one of her biggest inspirations, displayed on the harp.