Local harpist Esther Swift has joined Peebles Orchestra to rehearse her new concerto for harp and strings.

The 'Swift Harp’ project was made possible by generous funding by Creative Scotland, who have awarded the orchestra £2,310 to cover the costs of Esther’s composition and performance.

It is not often that a small town community orchestra gets the opportunity to play a world premiere of a newly composed work – especially a piece so much of the twenty first century.

But it is even more significant when the composer and soloist is a young Peebles girl who has taken her music to the highest level.

No wonder the players were anxious about this very contemporary music but the rehearsal dispelled those fears as Esther was able to demonstrate and explain the intricacies of the harmonics and other techniques required.

The rehearsal started with the delightful concerto by the little known 18th century composer, Boieldieu, full of melody and fun with some wonderful virtuoso harp playing. Then on to Esther’s concerto which, though minimalist, also has wonderful melodic moments reflecting the composer’s folk roots and interest in jazz and blues music. Everyone enjoyed playing this interesting music, which is sure to be a hit with the audience at the concert.

Creative Scotland’s award also covers a series of harp workshops in Peebles schools and nursing home allowing all ages to get close up and find out about and enjoy the harp. These workshops will take place next week, before the concert.

The concert is in the Leckie Church in Peebles on Saturday, May 16, at 7.30pm and tickets are available at Robbs Key store, Eastgate.