I’m Heather Downie, the founder of How To Harp and Principal Scottish Harp Tutor at The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. I’ve recorded albums and performed around the world, but I discovered early in my career that teaching is where I feel most at home. Helping harpists grow brings me deep joy and lasting fulfilment.

My goal is to help you become a better harpist—not simply to teach you tunes. I want you to learn in fresh, effective ways, developing technique and sound production so everything you play feels solid and sounds beautiful. Most of all, I want you to feel inspired, confident, and genuinely happy in yourself and your harping.

I hold a First Class (Hons) Bachelor of Arts in Scottish Music. I earned a Postgraduate Diploma (with distinction) in Scottish Music Performance. I also completed a Master of Education in Learning & Teaching in the Arts. I’m a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.