TEACHING THE HARP: Janice Ortega, Harpist & Harp Teacher

I was fortunate to have great harp teachers, and I want to continue their legacy with my students.

​

• I have 40 years’ experience of harp teaching private students, university and college students, youth orchestras, and schools of the arts high schools.

 

• ​Reviews written by my students or their parents are located at harpbayarea.com/applause.
   

• Education

Master of Music, Indiana University.

Artist Diploma, Royal Conservatory of the Netherlands.

Bachelor of Arts, Music, California State University East Bay.

​

TEACHING: WHAT DO I OFFER

• My studios are in San Francisco, on the Peninsula, and in the East Bay.

• I teach all aspects of harp technique and a general knowledge of music.

• I teach classical harp repertoire, as well as Celtic, Folk, Jazz, and Pop and orchestral training.

• I teach music theory, ear training, sight reading, improvisation, and music arranging.

• Each lesson includes harp solos and technical exercises (etudes)

• I teach both the Grandjany and Salzedo techniques to accommodate a wide variety of students. Hand position is critical on the harp. “Everyone’s hands are uniquely different – various sizes, various finger lengths, various proportions – and that requires uniquely tailored instruction and technique.” Susanna Campbell, Harpist.

​

• My students have options to perform as soloists and in ensembles with other students. Many go on to perform in youth orchestras and in chamber music ensembles.

 

TEACHING: ABOUT MY STUDENTS

• I teach students of all ages and experience in person and remotely on Zoom.

• Private students range in age from pre-school to seniors.

• My students range in ability from beginners to professional harpists. 

• I have different sizes and models of harps for rent, including both pedal and lever harps.

• I provide small harps that are designed for the small size of pre-school students.​

​

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

​