Fionnuala Kirby

Fionnuala is a Celtic Harpist based in Yelverton, Devon. She plays a 36-string Celtic (lever) Harp made by Tim Hampson of Bere Ferrers, Devon, out of Yew wood. Having had a musical upbringing mainly on piano, she has been teaching herself the Celtic Harp since she was given one in 2005 for her 33rd birthday. After studying the harp for a year, she then spent four years travelling in Europe with her family, playing the harp in around 150 different towns and cities, including several private performances, weddings and funerals. Since returning to Devon in 2011, she has been building a good reputation for her playing and the variety of her repertoire. She plays all over Devon and Cornwall for weddings and a variety of functions. Since 2013 she has played every Friday night in the restaurant of Two Bridges Hotel, Dartmoor. Inspiration for her ever-expanding repertoire comes from many sources, such as her English and Irish roots and love of folk music, her classical and religious upbringing, and her love of rhythm and world music. She plays a wide range of traditional tunes, classical pieces, popular tunes and Paraguayan harp music. In 2012 by popular request she recorded her first CD called "Travelling Tunes", as a showcase of her repertoire at the time, which was very well received. Her second CD called "Harp from the Heart" was recorded in 2017 and has also been very much appreciated. She likes to sing to her own harp accompaniment, and she teaches harp and piano. In 2019 she played at Tavistock Wharf with the band Mad Dog Mcrea supporting Seth Lakeman. Her latest CD "Constellation" recorded in May 2023 is now available for purchase or download. Fionnuala has a friendly and down-to-earth approach, and her fees are very reasonable. If you book her for your wedding ceremony, she will normally invite you to a private audience at her home, if convenient, to choose the special music for your big day. She is also happy to discuss your choices by phone, email or internet chat.