About The World Harp Congress
The World Harp Congress, Inc. a private non-profit organization, was founded in 1981 and incorporated in 1982. It originated from the Harpweeks in The Netherlands, organized by Phia Berghout and Maria Korchinska, that first met in 1960.
The WHC is held every three years around the world and seeks to promote the exchange of ideas, stimulate contact, and encourage the composition of new music for the harp. Concerts, workshops, seminars and exhibits concerning all aspects of harp musicology and performance are offered at these triennial sessions. Past Congresses have been held in Maastricht, The Netherlands (1983); Jerusalem, Israel (1985); Vienna, Austria (1987); Paris-Sèvres, France (1990); Copenhagen, Denmark (1993); Seattle-Tacoma, Washington USA (1996); Prague, The Czech Republic (1999); Geneva, Switzerland (2002); Dublin, Ireland (2005); Amsterdam, The Netherlands (2008); Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (2011); Sydney, Australia (2014); and Hong Kong, China (2017). The next Congress will take place in Cardiff, Wales, UK in 2021 (www.whc2021.wales).
The World Harp Congress has members representing over 50 countries.The Board of Directors welcomes all persons who are interested in the harp to join this international organization.
WHC2021 Online from Wales
From 19 – 23 July 2021, harpists and harp enthusiasts from around the world can enjoy 5 days of Online performances broadcast live from Cardiff, Wales’ capital city. Join us for an intensive but fun-filled week of recitals, concerts, lectures, masterclasses and workshops, all celebrating the versatility and ingenuity of the harp.
This online content is exclusively available to delegates of the 14th World Harp Congress, which is now due to take place in Cardiff, in July 2022. https://www.whc2021.wales
Focus on Youth 2022 Applications
The Focus on Youth platform is an integral part of the Congress, and is an opportunity for talented young harpists under the age of 22 to play in front of a panel of highly respected harpists who will give them feedback on their performance. Applications for those wishing to participate in the 2022 Congress open on 1st June 2021.
Key Dates
1st June 2021: Applications Open
15th September 2021: Applications Close
1st November 2021: Results Announced and Invitations sent to Performers
1st December 2021: Deadline for acceptance of invitation
