09/10/2026
“We have to lift the best out of all traditions and that's what we're not good at. We're good at dividing, we're good at nit‑picking, but we have to be prepared to lift and to work to all our strengths rather than to pick on our weaknesses – and the Belfast Harp Orchestra is doing exactly that. It's lifting pieces of music from right across the community.”
Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, Alasdair McDonnell, UTV News, 1995
Recognising that the harp appealed to both sides of the conflict, Janet set about creating a concert ensemble that brought children, families and communities together, collaborating in the telling of their story through the music, song and dance of Northern Ireland. From that vision, the Belfast Harp Orchestra emerged, becoming a symbol of shared heritage and a driving force in the renaissance of Irish harping.
It is widely acknowledged that the Belfast Harp Orchestra significantly contributed to the recent renaissance in Irish harping, and the world resonates healthily to the sounds of the harp today. Long may it continue to resonate!
Learn more about the history of the Belfast Harp Orchestra: www.janetharbisonharp.com/the-belfast-harp-orchestra
