Vocalist and harpist Nush Lewis introduces us to the nuances of mastering the rare stringed instrument
Nush Lewis started writing music, keeping the harp at the forefront, in 2010
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HARP, the string instrument producing notes with the subtle movement of fingers, originated in Mesopotamia around 3,500 BC. The apparatus also flourished in Egypt, China and Persia. Due to the lack of availability of good quality harps in India, there are hardly any teachers, but Nush Lewis - a Mumbai-based vocalist and harpist - is trying to bring in a new wave. She mastered the instrument from KM Music Conservatory in Chennai, and is spreading the warmth, through gigs, right here. Ahead of a performance, Lewis throws light on the instrument.
"I chose the harp after I heard my teacher, Alison Maggart, play at a school concert in 2009. I asked if I could try it and one class led to another. I ended up practising the harp more than my vocals, which was my specialisation at the institute," says the 29-year-old, who feels that no instrument is easy and comes with its own share of challenges.
"My teacher, Alison, had to return to the US [after a year of my lessons]. But my learning never stopped, and I continued to play the harp on my own," she says. "No one teaches the harp in Mumbai. I wish things change and I can start teaching, It's not too hard to fall in love with the harp," adds Lewis, who works as consultant with The True School of Music.
Many string instrument players, especially guitarists, need to frequently check their tuning while performing. But it's not the same with the harp. "You need not tune the harp in your set. Once it is fixed, it will stay unless you do something radical with it," she explains. But it requires a lot of maintenance. "You need to use it often and polish the wood. It can last for over 25 years." A pedal harp consists of 40 to 47 strings.
Tomorrow's performance features songs, which revolve around anxieties we battle today. "I have a song called Finding Sanity, which is about my battle with anxiety. There is a song called Travel, which is a story of two lovers, who just can't seem to find their way back to each other," she informs.
Her ensemble also comprises Mallika Barot (daughter to music composer Ranjit Barot on vocals and keys), Linford D'Souza (drums) and Yohaan Coutinho (bass guitar).
On: July 19, 9.30 pm
At: antiSOCIAL, Rohan Plaza, 5th Road, Khar West
Call: 65226324
Entry: Rs 300
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