The unique techniques used in the song allow the song to stand out. The song had ben broken into sections, and some members of the ensemble were playing entirely different parts of the song. This perfectly captures the whimsical feeling of hide-and-seek. Since everyone was playing different parts, it was important to know where you were. One of my favorite parts of the song was tapping the soundboard lightly and firmly to contribute to the song. The only thing I would change is the glissando, as it was very loud and dragged you away from the light feeling of the song. However, I believe we managed to capture the song well in our rendition by using dynamics.

This song included some of my favorite techniques, including putting paper between the strings to amplify the sounds and rattle the strings, making it sound more percussive. I also liked using the stick to quickly play two notes. I would love to learn more haiku songs, their innovation never fails to blow me away.

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, Falon Kelley is a 12th grade harpist who goes to Charles R. Drew Charter School. Her school is the only school in Georgia to have an in-school harp program. She has now been playing the harp for 7 years and frequently participates in the Urban Youth Harp Ensemble’s spring and winter performances. She has played in multiple concerts, performing songs like Bohemian Rhapsody, Two Guitars, Moonlight, and Walking in the Air.  In February of 2020, she was selected as a featured performer at the Salute to Greatness event where she had the opportunity to perform for guests such as Will and Jayden Smith and Bernice King. Falon participated in the Fall 2022 Solo/Ensemble, where she received a superior rating for her solo of Above the Clouds by Frank Voltz. When she’s not playing the harp, she loves to read and listen to music. She owns multiple books at home and is always excited to buy more. Her other pastimes include playing golf and writing. She has all A’s and excels in math. She is usually looking for music that she can play on the harp. Falon plans to study computer science and premed and become a pathologist.

Melissa's Circle - Key of Eb composed by Susan Raimon, arr. by Falon Kelley

This is the business card I made for harp gigs and performances.

This is the logo I made for gigs and performances.