Nov 29, 2020
Welcome to Hang the Holly. I'll introduce you to Stephanie
Claussen as we take an inside look at artists in the latest episode
of the Celtic Christmas Podcast.
We Wish You A Merry Christmas is the 3rd episode of 2020 and
show #57. It features Christmas music from Laura MacKenzie,
Emish, Steel Clover, Seamus Kennedy, Stephanie Claussen, David
Pedrick, The Barra MacNeils, Jennifer Cutting's Ocean Orchestra,
Haggis Rampant, Jed Marum, The Rogues, Marc Gunn & Mikey Mason,
Andrew D. Huber, Coyote Run, Angus Mohr & Friends, Mark
O'Connor.
The show is generously brought to you by the patrons of this
podcast on Patreon. Please show your support.
If you enjoy the show, you can rate the show or post comments
on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcatcher.
Subscribe to the podcast at CelticChristmasPodcast.com.
And now Stephanie Claussen
If you love harp music, why not choose to listen to a proven
talent? Not only have Stephanie Claussen’s skills been recognized
with the title of 2018 US National Scottish Harp Champion, but this
Minnesota-based harpist also runs her own harp studio, and travels
to play for audiences all over the upper Midwest area of the United
States. Claussen is classically trained, and the Celtic influences
are easy to hear throughout her style. She is crystal-clear and
very enjoyable to listen to on the strings of this enchanting
instrument.
Claussen has released five solo albums, starting in 2002. She
has also collaborated with other artists throughout her career.
Since Celtic songs are her specialty, it makes sense that she would
craft a Christmas album. After all, what other instrument brings
forth the true magic of the holiday more than the harp? The mood
that this music calls forth is at once elegant and otherworldly;
especially at the hands of an expert harpist. There really isn’t
anything quite like it. Not only is there the magnificent Celtic
flavor, there’s also an old-fashioned, medieval charm to it all. It
makes for a nice pairing.
On Light So Brilliant: Carols and Tunes for Christmas, her
collection of Christmas music offers 15 tracks which will add
warmth and delight to any holiday gathering. This solo harp album
would also be perfect to enjoy by the fire, or while sipping a hot
cuppa and taking in the majesty of a fully decorated tree. You’ll
hear holiday favorites such as “We Three Kings” and “God Rest Ye
Merry Gentlemen”… but that’s not all. Claussen also stocks the
track listings with a delicate rendition of "Bouree d’Avignon” and
other rewarding offerings, providing a full spectrum of beautiful
music to round out any holiday music collection. Whether you want
to keep it all to yourself or give this album as a gift, it’s well
worth a listen!
Although this artist has just one Christmas album, really any
of her albums would mix in well with a holiday vibe. Some
instruments just have that “festive” feel to them, and the harp is
definitely one of them. It puts a little spring in the step and
happiness in the heart—which is what we call holiday spirit!
Find out more about Stephanie Claussen at www.stephanieclaussen.com.
If you hear music you love, then support the artists. Buy
something from them. Sign up to their mailing lists. And share the
episode with your friends on social or in your
community.
The Celtic Christmas Podcast is free to enjoy. However, it is
supported by the generosity of Celtic music fans like you over on
Patreon. Get Christmas Cheer. Subscribe at CelticChristmasPodcast.com . Nollaig shona
daoibh.