Monday, August 10, 2009

A John Egan Harp found in a Dumpster in New York City


THE HARP that once through Tara's halls
The soul of music shed,
Now hangs as mute on Tara's walls
As if that soul were fled.
So sleeps the pride of former days,
So glory's thrill is o'er,
And hearts, that once beat high for praise,
Now feel that pulse no more.

The Harp that Once Through Tara's Halls
Thomas Moore (1779–1852)



The John Egan harp in my life

John Egan harp

I have been honored and blessed to come to live with an important piece of the history of Ireland’s music, a very early John Egan harp, made between 1792 and no latter than 1816. It was found in the trash by Julie Finch, tossed away when a shop closed. John Egan invented the modern Irish folk harp, and was a real artist. His harps are visually beautiful and sound magnificent.
This group will follow the years of restoration and conservation, and I hope in a few years, have video of her re-entry into the community of Irish music

1 comment:

  1. Incredible - looking forward to seeing her refurbished as well as actually seeing her played in the promised video!
    Blessings
    Christi

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