At a special reception held during the 2006 Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in North Wales, HRH The Prince of Wales graciously accepted a new, specially crafted harp made in his honour by Salvi Harps of Italy. The new harp, a gift of The Victor Salvi Foundation, will be used by the Royal Harpist in her official capacity. Jemima Philips, current Royal Harpist, performed Watching the Wheat by John Thomas, Spanish Dance No. 1 by Manuel de Falla and God Bless The Prince of Wales, traditional, on the new instrument to celebrate the occasion. Victor Salvi, founder of Salvi Harps, and his wife Julia, president of the Victor Salvi Foundation, made the official presentation. The Royal Harp will be housed at Clarence House, in London.
“HRH The Prince of Wales was actively involved in the designing of this instrument and followed its progress with great interest,” says Marco Ghibaudo, general manager of Salvi Harps. “Our most experienced carvers and gilders created this magnificent instrument under the watchful eye of company founder Victor Salvi.”
The design of the Royal Harp incorporates the Prince of Wales feathers, daffodils (the Welsh national flower and symbol of affection), dragon (representing protection and the national symbol of Wales) and “double spoons” (representing an eternally bound couple). Noted Welsh art dealer Richard Philp and Salvi Harps designer Serena Dalmasso were responsible for finalizing the designs used in the creating the Royal Harp. “The involvement of HRH the Prince of Wales restores the ancient tradition of creating a harp to reflect the character of its owner,” says Ghibaudo.
The position of Royal Harpist was discontinued during the reign of Queen Victoria and was restored in 2000 by HRH The Prince of Wales, when Catrin Finch became His Royal Highness’ first Royal Harpist. Although the appointment normally lasts two years, she was invited to continue in this position for an additional two-year period. In 2004, Jemima Phillips succeeded her as Royal Harpist.
“It has been a great privilege to create this beautiful instrument for HRH The Prince of Wales,” says Julia Salvi. “It is our hope that it will bring many hours of enjoyment to the Royal Family, the people of Wales, and ultimately the United Kingdom.”
