Musical Motions (T.I.P.P.) Theory in Practice and Performance

ABOUT THE T.I.P.P. SERIES

The T.I.P.P. Series (Theory in Practice and Performance) is a multi-level set of instructional and performance pieces designed to introduce student harpists to the fundamentals of theory – harmony and rhythm.  The pieces contained in each set may also be used as performance pieces in the form of a suite or stand-alone work. 

The concept for the T.I.P.P. Series arose from the composers’ interest in creating works for students in the H.I.P.P. program (Harp Instruction and Performance Program), an afterschool program that introduces young learners to the harp.  Students were able to build their knowledge of theory as they developed technique on the harp.  Each piece has “free-style fingering” which allows the instructor to craft fingering conducive to the level and physique of the student.

ABOUT Musical Motions

Step, Skip, Jump takes the harpist through a journey of motions using a series of steps and skips.  The jump is demonstrated through a set of ascending and descending glissandi.  The middle of the piece contains a chorale before the recap of the opening material.

Leap, Soar, Fly is a fun waltz filled with jumps and leaps in the accompanying lines along with contrasting dynamics.  The piece also features a duet played over a soaring fifths.

Five Tone Blues is a pentatonic version of the “blues”.  The ascending and descending bass line is evenly divided between two harps with a sustained two-note chord.  The groovy melodic line is performed in the form of a duet.

Download and Read a Sample of Musical Motions

Listen to an example here: