Playing harp for animals
“Animals are amazing sentient beings. They have a physical and psychological sensibility, which allows them – in the same way as humans – to experience pain and pleasure. It is certain that animals naturally seek, by all means available to them, to avoid painful experiences. Research shows that music can affect an animal’s mood in much the same way it affects us. When dogs, cats, cows, horses hear classical music, it has a soothing effect and they become relaxed. Loud, thrashing heavy metal music has shown to rile them up, making them anxious and agitated.
In my harp playing, I have found that the animals will actually come closer to me, both out of curiosity and to be closer to the music. I play for the kangaroos outside of my home in the bush. As well my beloved cats will always come to be where the harp is playing. Lately, I have had the honour of playing for the animals at Edgar’s Mission.
My journey started when my instructor through the International Harp Therapy Program suggested that if I was apprehensive working with people, to rather take this newly acquired art of sound healing on the harp and begin with playing for animals. I took my little lap harp to the wildlife shelter where I volunteer and was amazed at the responses from the kangaroos and cockatoos. It became a regular activity and so began my dream to be able to work with animals with the harp.
When I go to Edgar’s Mission as a certified Therapeutic Harp Practitioner, I play with loving intention. I am not used to being around, or know how to behave, with most of these animals and I sometimes feel afraid of them. But I just bring my thoughts back to why I am there and the fear disappears. When I arrive Pam usually has someone in mind for me to go to. When I first started Groucho the goat was in the barn and really seemed to get something from the harp. He is someone I like to play for on a regular basis.
I like to start by striking different notes, in different octaves and keys. I try to find what the animal seems to relate to, what resonates for them. I sometimes use known melodies which lead me into improvisation as I stay with what feels right for the animal I am with. Maybe they need to be uplifted or calmed or soothed by a lullaby etc. In finding and maintaining the appropriate rhythm, sound and tempo the animal may feel a sense of safety. We are cradled in sound. It is an amazing feeling. Every being has their very own rhythm their very own tune and I am so very grateful and humbled to get this opportunity to explore this with everyone at Edgars Mission.
Every visit is its own new adventure for us all!”
(originally published in the Herald-Sun)
