Ep 31: Karen Peterson

Heather chats with Karen about carving out a meaningful harp life as an adult, from rediscovering the instrument after college to building a career centred on service, teaching, and creativity.They explore therapeutic music in hospitals, hearing and using modes by colour, and what makes the double strung harp such a freeing instrument to play.In this episode:• How Karen went from violin and pedal harp at school to finding lever harp as an affordable way back into playing• How an in-person harp event became the turning point for choosing an instrument and a direction• Therapeutic music in hospitals: what the training involves, what the work is like, and how to avoid burnout• A thoughtful discussion on volunteering vs getting paid, and how to donate your fee without taking paid work away from others• Modes as colour and mood: comparing modes by keeping the same tonal centre for clearer “light and shadow” hearing• Karen’s Dorian work and arranging approach, plus where to find her resources• Why she chose the double strung harp, how she adapted to it, and the musical benefits of having two string courses• Highs and lows of learning therapeutic music, including the reality of making mistakes with a vulnerable population• Karen’s advice to adult learners: stop stopping, practise recovering, and build confidence through continuityThis is a warm, practical conversation about making music that serves, learning with curiosity, and giving yourself permission to play with more freedom.Host:Heather Downie - Harpist, Principal Lever Harp Tutor at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, Founder of How To HarpGuest:Karen Peterson - Harpist, Teacher, Certified Music PractitionerLearn with us:https://www.HowToHarp.com (membership, courses, retreats)If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment, subscribe, and share it with a harp friend. It really helps the podcast grow!#HowToHarpPodcast #HowToHarp #HeatherDownieHarpist #TherapeuticHarp #DoubleStrungHarp