Ever seen an organistrum? What about a nyckelharpa? You can see and hear them in a unique concert at the Brackendale Art Gallery Sunday (March 13).
Harpist and storyteller Lori Pappajohn and medieval instrumentalist Joaquin Ayala will be bringing their rare collection of harps and instruments to the BAG for a unique concert of a surprising array of musical styles.
"When people think of the harp, they think of soothing angelic music," said Pappajohn. "Harps can also be fiery."
From Celtic lullabies to flamenco, jazz and 2,000-year old pieces, the duo weaves the music together with songs and banter to create a warm, fun-loving show. Pappajohn's ease at telling stories may come from her 20 years of experience as a writer for the New Westminster Record. She's currently on a leave of absence, but says she prefers balancing the two professions.
"I've always done both and I think that's what so great," she says. "It's like having two personalities. As a news reporter you have to go in for the kill, but as a musician you go in and give people a relaxing, enjoyable, peaceful time."
And if her art imitates her life, the stories are sure to be amusing. A normally simple story, such as how Pappajohn began playing the harp, elicits a surreal tale. It began 15 years ago when Pappajohn saw an opportunity to make extra money. Her friend had come to stay with her after studying in New York at one of the world's top harp music schools in the world. The musician was "dead broke" so Pappajohn sent her friend's resume out offering Christmas background music to stores. One evening, at 3 a.m., the Royal Academy of Music in London, England phoned to offer the musician a full scholarship. She went and left her harp behind. When stores began calling for the harpist and Pappajohn heard what they'd pay, she took the gigs.
"I had two months to learn how to play," she said.
No sooner had Pappajohn faked her way through the holiday season than her friend called from the academy with an idea. "She phoned and said 'They never ever take roll call at any of the classes. Get over here.' So I went over to London, England and went to the Royal Academy of Music," laughs Pappajohn. "It was really surreal taking workshops with the greatest musicians in the world."
In the 15 years since, Pappajohn has released 11 albums, and was nominated for a West Coast Music award. She also directs the Winter Harp ensemble, which has been featured numerous times on CBC television's Opening Night series and on Bravo Television.
Pappajohn and Ayala take the stage at 8 p.m. Sunday (March 13). Tickets are $15 and available at Mostly Books and at the BAG.
