1. Do I have to be a Harp School student to participate?
No. Students from all institutions and private studios are welcome.
Our goal is to teach intensively and send students back to their teachers better
equipped and inspired, whether or not they are enrolled with The Harp School.
2. Is there an enrollment limit?
Yes. That is why it is important to apply early. The faculty and facility limit enrollment to
ensure each student gets adequate attention and has a positive experience. We have run at capacity
every year, and expect 2007 to be no different.
3. The Academy is held on a seminary campus. Is this a religious event?
The Harp School is organized as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, and is
not religiously affiliated. The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary graciously makes the facility available for the Academy, and we and they expect all participants to behave as guests of a prestigious conservative academic institution. Many Harp School faculty and students attend churches of many different denominations, and some are secular. The focus is on learning, not religion.
4. Why the audition requirement? How do you evaluate applications?
If this is your first time to apply, we require an audition recording. This helps the faculty know at
what level students perform, and aids in planning the classes. On occasion, we encounter an applicant who is simply not well-prepared to participate effectively. We don't want that student to spend time and money unnecessarily.
Applications are reviewed by several members of faculty, with the recording and letter of recommendation from the current teacher weighing heavily in the decision. The Harp School Inc. reserves the right to refuse any applicant, if in the opinion of the faculty that individual does not show sufficient promise of success, or may prove disruptive to the operation of the Summer Harp Academy.
The decision of the faculty is final.
5. Are scholarships available?
The Academy hopes to break even every year, so we don't have a pool of scholarship funds to make available. We work to hold the line on costs to keep it affordable for as many students as possible.
6. Should I bring my own harp?
All the students must provide their own instruments, and each is responsible for the expenses of travel and insurance during the Academy. All instruments travel and are used at owner’s risk.
7. Is there a registration deadline?
No, but as you look at the application form, you notice that the fees rise after specified dates.
As noted in Question 2, all available space fills quickly. We turned away several good candidates last year who simply procrastinated and tried to apply after we had reached capacity. If you have not sent your application in by May 1, inquire at harpschool@harpschool.org, to see if there may be space available.