Hang the Holley: Stephanie Claussen

Welcome to Hang the Holly. I'll introduce you to Stephanie Claussen as we take an inside look at artists in the latest episode of the Celtic Christmas Podcast. 

 

We Wish You A Merry Christmas is the 3rd episode of 2020 and show #57. It features Christmas music from Laura MacKenzie, Emish, Steel Clover, Seamus Kennedy, Stephanie Claussen, David Pedrick, The Barra MacNeils, Jennifer Cutting's Ocean Orchestra, Haggis Rampant, Jed Marum, The Rogues, Marc Gunn & Mikey Mason, Andrew D. Huber, Coyote Run, Angus Mohr & Friends, Mark O'Connor.

 

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Subscribe to the podcast at CelticChristmasPodcast.com.

 

And now Stephanie Claussen

 

If you love harp music, why not choose to listen to a proven talent? Not only have Stephanie Claussen’s skills been recognized with the title of 2018 US National Scottish Harp Champion, but this Minnesota-based harpist also runs her own harp studio, and travels to play for audiences all over the upper Midwest area of the United States. Claussen is classically trained, and the Celtic influences are easy to hear throughout her style. She is crystal-clear and very enjoyable to listen to on the strings of this enchanting instrument.

 

Claussen has released five solo albums, starting in 2002. She has also collaborated with other artists throughout her career. Since Celtic songs are her specialty, it makes sense that she would craft a Christmas album. After all, what other instrument brings forth the true magic of the holiday more than the harp? The mood that this music calls forth is at once elegant and otherworldly; especially at the hands of an expert harpist. There really isn’t anything quite like it. Not only is there the magnificent Celtic flavor, there’s also an old-fashioned, medieval charm to it all. It makes for a nice pairing.

 

On Light So Brilliant: Carols and Tunes for Christmas, her collection of Christmas music offers 15 tracks which will add warmth and delight to any holiday gathering. This solo harp album would also be perfect to enjoy by the fire, or while sipping a hot cuppa and taking in the majesty of a fully decorated tree. You’ll hear holiday favorites such as “We Three Kings” and “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen”… but that’s not all. Claussen also stocks the track listings with a delicate rendition of "Bouree d’Avignon” and other rewarding offerings, providing a full spectrum of beautiful music to round out any holiday music collection. Whether you want to keep it all to yourself or give this album as a gift, it’s well worth a listen!

 

Although this artist has just one Christmas album, really any of her albums would mix in well with a holiday vibe. Some instruments just have that “festive” feel to them, and the harp is definitely one of them. It puts a little spring in the step and happiness in the heart—which is what we call holiday spirit!

 

Find out more about Stephanie Claussen at www.stephanieclaussen.com.

 

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The Celtic Christmas Podcast is free to enjoy. However, it is supported by the generosity of Celtic music fans like you over on Patreon. Get Christmas Cheer. Subscribe at CelticChristmasPodcast.com . Nollaig shona daoibh.