Houston/Katy Harp Studio
One of the Houston area’s most sought after harp teachers, Ms. Cowan teaches students of all ages and experience levels. Her students have performed all over Houston, bringing their music to local churches, hospitals, and nursing homes. Her school age students often play in region orchestras, youth orchestras, the TMEA All-State orchestra, and receive top ratings in solo and ensemble competitions. Ms. Cowan strives to create a supportive and nurturing learning environment where her students can grow and achieve their personal goals.
Training and Experience
- Bachelor of Music from the University of Houston’s Moores School of Music, studied with Paula Page
- Master of Music from Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music, studied with Paula Page
- Faculty at the Houston Summer Harp Festival since 2013
- Private lessons teacher since 2013
- Chairperson of the 2016 and 2018 Mildred Milligan Competition
- Clinician and adjudicator for school districts across the greater Houston area
Teaching Philosophy
I love helping students learn to play harp and create beautiful music. My goal for my students is that they develop a solid technical foundation, expressive musicality, and the ability to share their love of music with others. I also want my students to experience the satisfaction that comes from achieving their goals through consistent and disciplined practice. I teach students of all ages, and tailor my lessons to fit each individual’s personality, goals, and needs.
Getting Started
I currently teach out of my home in Katy, TX. My teaching days and hours vary depending on student needs and availability. I offer a free consultation lesson for new students so that we can get to know each other before making any financial or time commitments. Please contact me to schedule your trial lesson and discuss possible lesson times and rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to bring my own harp to lessons? Usually students play on one of my harps for their lessons. If you feel more comfortable on your own instrument you are of course welcome to bring it.
- How much will I need to practice? Frequency of practicing is more important than duration, especially at the beginning. I recommend 10-30 min 5-6 days a week for beginners. Your practice sessions will grow longer as your stamina grows and your music becomes more complicated.
- What kind of music do you teach? I am classically trained, and most of my students will learn a wide variety of classical harp pieces and etudes. I encourage students to find their own musical interests, and can tailor their studies to include folk music, jazz, popular music, and composition.
- What should I bring to my lesson? You should bring any music you are working on, a notebook, pencil, metronome, and tuner. You should also make sure your fingernails are trimmed short. Sadly, no manicures for harpists.
- Will I have performance opportunities? Yes! For school age students I organize at two recitals a year. Additionally, I frequently set up outreach performance opportunities in local nursing homes, hospitals, and churches. These performances not only help you gain performance practice and confidence but also help bring music to our community. I can also provide information for local and national competitions, summer camps, and youth orchestras for interested students.
Please contact me to set up a consultation lesson, find out more about my teaching, or even if you just have questions about learning the harp. You can either reach me via the form below, or send me an email: hope.k.cowan @ gmail.com.