Mar 7: Basics of Beauty and Fire with Laura Zaerr

Saturday, March 7, 2026

11am – 1pm

Dusty Strings 3406 Fremont Ave N

Maximum Enrollment: 16

Registration & Refund Deadline: Wednesday, March 4, 2026

This is a techniques workshop appropriate for all levels. First, we will work on exercises for finger dexterity, independence, and strength. Next, we will work on playing speedy effortless arpeggios. We will learn about “rhythms” as a technique to build up speed and even tone using a series of seventh chord arpeggios that could be used as filler or stand-alone piece as a sort of improvisation.  

Skills Needed: You don’t have to have previous experience with the harp, but a few lessons ahead of time and some basic music reading skills might be useful. The workshop will progress according to the needs of the participants.

What to Bring: Harp (31 string minimum) tuned to the key of C (no sharps or flats).  Music stand, pen, or pencil. Handouts will be provided. Recording device optional. Need a harp? Dusty Strings can provide a loaner harp for the workshop. Please call the shop (206) 634-1662 at least a week beforehand as loaners are subject to availability.

Teacher: Laura Zaerr taught for 18 years at the University of Oregon, where she chaired the harp department. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in music performance and composition at the U of O. She holds a master’s degree in harp performance from the Eastman School of Music, where she studied with Eileen Malone. Over the past 30 years Laura has produced several solo CDs featuring original compositions and arrangements of Celtic tunes. Laura has worked in various styles of music: Renaissance band, Baroque Italian Triple harp, Single action pedal harp, Medieval single row harp, and Brazilian jazz. She offers harp workshops and retreats in the Northwest, and is chair of the American Harp Society Young Composer’s Project. As well as maintaining a teaching studio Laura works for the local school district. When she is not playing harp or wrangling children, she can be sited whitewater kayaking.

laurazaerr.com  

*Most classes and workshops are geared towards late-teens and adults. Younger learners will benefit most starting with private lessons.

If you have any questions about group classes, or the school in general, don’t hesitate to contact us at (206) 634-1662 or music@dustystrings.com.