Take the oldest Scottish instrument, the clarsach (harp), and the newest addition to the traditional music arsenal, the guitar, and throw them in the musical blender of Glasgow and out comes Rachel Hair and Ron Jappy. Superb instrumentalists with a shared passion for traditional tunes, they perform as if sharing one mind. Both from fishing villages rich in musical tradition, they sought to expand their understanding and studied music in Glasgow, training formally during the day and attending the famed night-time sessions of the city.
Don’t expect to get a nap in during a Rachel and Ron performance. While they might lull you for the start of a set into thinking you will hear spa-ready harp music, don’t be fooled. The first clue is when you notice that Rachel stands while playing. Her hands dance on the strings while her body dances with the harp as she blasts pre-conceptions and breaks out of the box while joyfully exploring the versatility of this beautiful instrument.
Passionate about sharing the history of the harp and the culture of Scotland, the duo charms audiences wherever they go. From crisp strathspeys and heartfelt airs, to virtuosic reels and driving jigs, Rachel and Ron have combined their influences to embrace the rich cultural tradition in Scotland.
Ron, originally and still a fiddle player, grew up in Findochty started playing guitar while studying music in Glasgow and has toured with Skerryvore, Scott Wood Band, Manran and the BBC musicians of the year Hannah Rarity and Clare Hastings.
Rachel, who stands at the forefront in today’s Celtic harp revival, is unique in placing it at the helm of her music, performing, teaching and promoting it at harp festivals worldwide. She has released 7 CDs and 5 books of harp arrangements and original compositions, and her music is performed by harpists throughout the world.
Originally paired for a 2 and half week tour of Europe, their musical chemistry was apparent from the outset and they have since gone on to tour the US, Europe, New Zealand, Australia and Japan. Their latest album Élan (released in 2023) was described as “an energizing, inspiring and precious delight.” (Folk Radio).
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