New harp at high school

SPARTA—Audiences at Sparta High School concerts this year may have noticed a new addition in the orchestra and concert band. A new harp has been acquired through fund raising by the Major family, a mini-grant from the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, and funds from Sparta High School. Having a harp at the school allows freshman Alex Major to be a daily member of the Sparta High School Orchestra, directed by Loni Bach. Several other students are exploring the richness of the sound of the harp through weekly lessons with professional harpist and Sparta resident Cecelia Parker, who volunteered her time this semester to introduce the instrument to music students at Sparta High School. The harp adds a rich tone to the music and is used in everything from classical to jazz to folk traditions. Sparta High School musicals will also benefit from having this instrument readily available.