The influence of the Hampsey Harp School based in Garvagh, the Jimmy O’Hara Comhaltas group in Limavady and the Causeway Coast Trad group in the Coleraine area, has meant that there are a number of young harp players who attend Loreto.

 

Three years ago we set up the Loreto Harp Orchestra. The group is currently directed by Y14 pupil, Sinéad Close, and is a great opportunity for our harpists to play along with others and to perform in front of audiences during school open days, masses and concerts as well as other venues outside school hours.

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We find that this develops our pupils socially, teaches them to be part of a team and really promotes mental wellbeing and mindfulness. In February 2024, we were delighted to receive funding from the Irish, The Honourable Society to purchase a harp for the school. This harp can be used by pupils who commute by bus and find it difficult to transport a harp to take part in the orchestra.