On a Blue Hill extended techniques

Inspired by Christina Rossetti’s poem “Clouds,” On a Blue Hill creates a serene, atmospheric soundscape with subtle “blue” (jazzy) diatonic harmonies—no chromatics added. Written in 2021 during my composer residency with Harps North West, it’s designed for harp players seeking evocative contemporary repertoire.

Two versions are available:

• Harp duo (advanced standard)
• Harp quartet / ensemble (intermediate) 4 parts + optional easy 5th part for larger groups or mixed abilities

​Suitable for lever or pedal harps (matching harp types recommended for the most homogeneous blend). 

The piece flows without breaks through four sections:

• Cumulus – spread-out arpeggios
• Stratocumulus – building momentum with shared harmonics
• Altocumulus – rhythmic, ascending chords
• Cirrostratus – delicate, fading wispy lines

A variety of extended techniques bring texture and colour: harmonics, xylophonics, xylophonic harmonics, bisbigliando, soundboard sweeps, fist thuds, and string bass board glissandi.

For detailed demonstrations of all the techniques, performance tips, and the full piece, please watch the video.

Sheet Music - PDFs now available:

• On a Blue Hill – Harp Duo
• On a Blue Hill – Harp Quartet/Ensemble

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Also available ​at Harp Column Music