Harps, History, and Hidden Treasures: This Weekend at the Cambrian Harp Festival!

The wait is almost over! This Saturday, May 16, 2026, the village of Llanrhystud will transform into the ultimate destination for music lovers, history buffs, and aspiring musicians alike. We have been working tirelessly behind the scenes at Cambrian Harps to curate an experience that is nothing short of magical. Whether you are a professional harpist looking to refine your technique or a curious local wondering if you’ve got a hidden masterpiece in your attic, this festival is designed for you.

Our "Made in Wales" heritage is at the heart of everything we do, and we cannot wait to welcome you to our showroom and the surrounding community spaces for a weekend of fascinating discoveries and world-class performances. From the shimmer of a new Welsh harp to the stories behind ancient heirlooms, let your journey begin here.

Morning Magic: Antiques and Valuations with Charles Hanson

To kick off the festivities on Saturday morning, we are hosting a truly unique event at the Cambrian Harps showroom. From 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, we are thrilled to welcome the renowned BBC antique expert Charles Hanson for an exclusive Antique Valuation Day.

Do you have a dusty piece of jewelry, a family silver set, or perhaps some old ceramics hidden away? This is your chance to have them assessed by one of the industry's most prestigious figures. Charles brings a wealth of knowledge and a contagious enthusiasm that makes every valuation feel like a scene from a fairy tale.

• When: Saturday, May 16, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Where: The Cambrian Harps Showroom
• Entry Fee: £10
• Items Welcome: Gold, silver, jewelry, ceramics, and small collectibles.

Even if you don’t have an item to value, the atmosphere is set to be electric. You can book your valuation slot here to ensure you don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to uncover the hidden treasures in your own home.

Masterclasses and Workshops: Elevate Your Artistry

At Cambrian Harps, we are committed to guiding you through your musical education with the highest academic standards. Our Saturday workshop schedule is designed to cater to every level of ability, from those just starting their journey to advanced students seeking professional refinement. We are proud to facilitate your education by bringing together a faculty of elite instructors with impeccable credentials.

Kathryn Rees: The Master Class 10am

For our more established students, we are honored to present a Master Class with Kathryn Rees. As a distinguished figure in the harp world, Kathryn brings a level of expertise that is truly world-class. This session is designed for those who wish to dive into the technical nuances of the instrument and achieve that competitive edge. Our former students have a history of success at prestigious institutions, and working with a mentor of Kathryn’s caliber is a significant step toward achieving those distinctions across all grades.

Luke Webb: The Irish Harp Tradition morning for adults afternoon for teens and tweens.

We are delighted to welcome Luke Webb, an expert in the Irish Harp tradition. Luke will be leading two specific sessions: one for absolute beginners and another tailored specifically for teens and tweens.

Luke’s teaching method is rooted in the irish tradition, ensuring that even our youngest players receive a foundation of the highest quality. Whether you are picking up the instrument for the first time or looking to expand your folk repertoire, Luke’s workshops are an engaging way to explore the rich heritage of the irish harp.

Elin Y Delyn: Welsh Harp Mastery

No festival in Llanrhystud would be complete without a deep dive into our own national instrument. Elin Y Delyn will be leading a Welsh Harp workshop suitable for all levels. Her teaching style beautifully balances the warmth of a mentor with the rigor of professional lineage, allowing students to explore traditional Welsh melodies while maintaining strict technical standards.

If you haven't secured your place yet, you can view the full workshop schedule and book your day pass here.

An Enchanted Evening: The Gala Concert

As the sun sets over the Welsh coast, the festivities move to the Llanrhystud Village Hall for our flagship Gala Concert. This is the highlight of the festival, featuring a breathtaking lineup that celebrates the diversity and beauty of the harp.

Prepare to be mesmerized by performances from:

• Luke Webb: Showcasing the rhythmic and ethereal beauty of the Irish Harp.
• Elin Lloyd: Bringing a contemporary flair to traditional sounds.
• The Cambrian Harp Ensemble: A powerful collective performance that demonstrates the incredible resonance and range of our handcrafted instruments.

The Gala Concert is more than just a performance; it is a celebration of the community we have built around the harp. It is a chance to see the result of years of dedication, maintenance, and craft.

Sunday Morning: Discover The Harp

For those who have always watched from the sidelines and thought, "I wish I could do that," Sunday morning is your time to shine. We are hosting a special Discover The Harp workshop session specifically for absolute beginners.

Our Discover The Harp courses have a 100% success rate in getting new players to perform their first melody within hours. We provide the instruments, the expertise, and the encouragement. It is an inclusive yet elite environment where you can explore your potential without any prior musical knowledge. Many of our students who began in these very sessions have gone on to achieve high distinctions in their ISoM exams.

If you are looking for the perfect entry point, you can browse our collection of beginner-friendly harps to see what awaits you.

Expert Craftsmanship and Harp Maintenance

Throughout the weekend, our team of experts will be available at the showroom to discuss the finer points of harp maintenance. A harp is a living instrument made from sustainably sourced, resonant wood, and keeping it in peak condition is essential for its longevity and sound quality.

Whether you own a professional Aoyama Orpheus 47 or a portable Lily Lap Harp, our technicians can provide advice on string care, lever regulation, and environmental protection. Our "Made in Wales" philosophy extends beyond manufacturing; we are dedicated to the lifelong care of every instrument that passes through our doors.

Planning Your Visit

Llanrhystud is a stunning location for a weekend getaway. For those traveling from further afield, we highly recommend staying at the Tyr Wennol caravan site, which is located right opposite the festival hub. It’s the perfect base to enjoy the coastal views between workshops and concerts.

Terms and Conditions

To ensure the professional standard of the festival, please note the following:

• Pre-booking is essential for all workshops and the valuation day to manage capacity.
• Cancellations are non-refundable due to the high demand for tutor slots.
• Practice requirements: Students participating in the Kathryn Rees Master Class should have their pieces performance-ready to facilitate a high-level academic environment.

Join Us for a Musical Journey

The Cambrian Harp Festival is a unique blend of professional rigor and magical community spirit. We are so proud to host this event and to share our passion for the Welsh harp with you all. Whether you are coming for the valuation day with Charles Hanson, the evening concert, or a full day of education, we promise an experience that will stay with you long after the final note has faded.

Contact us to book your last-minute tickets or visit our About Us page to learn more about our mission and heritage.

We can't wait to see you in Llanrhystud this weekend! Let the music begin!