Ancient meets modern in 'Two Worlds of Harps' Candlelight Concert Nov. 19

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Trinity United Methodist Church’s Candlelight Concert series presents "Two Worlds of Harps" at 7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 19.

The evening's program features both a modern-style grand concert harp played by Nancy “Pinky” Dale, and an ancient-style Celtic harp played by Port Townsend’s own David Michael, who opens the show with flutist Ann Lindquist in their debut Port Townsend duo performance.

This is also Dale’s Port Townsend debut. Some of her selections are accompanied by Terry Reitz on Trinity’s Czechoslovakian Petrof grand piano.

The Celtic harp – dating back 1,000 years – was developed in Ireland and is a national symbol to this day. Considered a folk instrument, it is noted for its sweetness of tone. Modern “grand concert” pedal harps were developed in the 18th century to expand the instrument’s range and allow for key changes.

Dale, who has played the harp for more than 60 years, has devoted her life to working with youths and adults in career development at the college level. She is a retired dean of South Seattle College, where she wrote innovative programs for training and education in a variety of fields.

Her program at this debut concert includes classical, pop tunes and sacred music created specifically for the contemporary harp.

Seasoned performers, Michael and Lindquist are prolific recording artists, producers, eclectic composers and masters of improvisation. Pioneers of world-fusion music and students of both western classical music and many worldwide styles, they seek the common ground between many genres. Their program of original compositions includes Michael’s "Return of the Magicians," which makes use of Middle Eastern scales, and "Spirit Rising," with influences from the Far East.

Trinity United Methodist Church is located at 609 Taylor St., Uptown. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Admission is by a suggested $10 donation (children admitted free) to benefit local Port Townsend charitable organizations and Trinity’s music and historic Victorian restoration programs. Refreshments are served following the performance. For more information, call 774-1644.