What is your name / where are you from?
Niamh O’Brien from Co. Limerick.

How did you start playing the harp?
Nives Carroll moved into our parish and the word went around that she taught the harp. We all thought this was very exotic! And my family were sick of hearing me practice the tin-whistle. So I was brought for lessons and was hooked.

What does the harp mean to you?
It means different things at different times. Sometimes it means back pain and difficulty traveling. But mostly it is a constant friend, a great listener, and a way of connecting with people.

What do you like most about Lá na Cruite | Harp Day?
I love telling students about it. They are delighted to have a day to themselves and their instrument. It makes them feel very special and important, which of course they are!