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Reviews |
There are other extremely good books on the wire-strung harp, but Cynthia Cathcart's new primer Pathway is so clear, well-illustrated, and comprehensive that it may well become a standard. Pathway is designed to take newcomers to the wire-strung harp and ground them in necessary techniques in a methodical way, often using primary (i.e. traditional) sources for tunes. This is probably not a book for someone looking for instant gratification. It's very methodical and focuses on mastering techniques in a step by step fashion. While this is important for anyone playing the harp, it's especially crucial for those playing wire-strung. The book is arranged in lessons. Just like a lesson with a teacher in person, there is an introduction, an overview of the goal of the lesson, new techniques, musical concepts, then pertinent exercises. Each tune is preceded by a section called "preparing to play", which points out what to be looking for, and also contains background information on the tune (these are terrific reading!). After the tune, just like a teacher assigning homework, there are suggestions for things to do on your own, and a review of what's been covered. For a motivated learner, all the tools are here to gain proficiency. A special commendation for the drawings by Michael Glenn Stewart. In a book like this, the illustrations can either help or frustrate the reader. These are simply great, especially the "harper's-eye-view" ones. The book is also superbly augmented by a companion CD. Finally, I must add that although it's intended for wire harp students, Cynthia's scholarship and 'mini-essays' on topics like relaxation, interpretation, practicing, and goal setting make Pathway recommended reading for any harp player. Review by Cindy Ellen Morgan
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