Author name: Patricia Daly

Last weekend, I was playing harp at a very special wedding at Brooklodge, Wicklow.   The couple lives in Seattle, U.S.A and returned to the bride’s home-place in Co. Wicklow for their Irish celebration, then later they plan to visit the groom’s home-place for their Indian celebration.   This was an intimate, deeply personal setting—family […]

Last weekend, I had the absolute delight of performing at Malahide Library, Dublin for “Culture Night 2025.”   This was an intimate but lively audience—attentive harp lovers who were ready to engage with the music, the energy, and the historical background behind each piece.   Performing in this kind of public, intimate setting is all

Olivia came to her online music lessons carrying anxiety, fear of silence, and self-doubt. Every note felt heavy. Every pause felt scary. Playing her instrument was more about worry than expression.   Step 1: Grounding and Connection   In the first session, we introduced “Source Spot”exercise to help Olivia drop from her busy mind intoher

The scariest part of playing music isn’t hitting a wrongnote. It’s the voice that whispers: “You’re not goodenough.”   That lie has silenced more musicians than broken strings ever will.   But here’s the truth— Confidence doesn’t show up before you play. It shows up because you play.   Every artist you admire?They once froze.They

What would make this year most fulfilling for you? I was looking back over old surveys lately and Johnny’s responses stood out. He wanted a life filled with heart, creativity, and joy.   Not by doing everything perfectly, but by aligning who he was with how he performed.   Here’s a simple exercise you can

It’s Not Just About Talent   In every mentoring session, there’s a quiet but powerful pattern: students who are growth-oriented—those who believe skills can be developed, put in the work, and that work pays off.   The Power of Habits   Being growth-oriented isn’t just about optimism; it’s about consistent habits.   These students tackle

True confidence isn’t about being flawless — it’s about showing up ready.   ✨Enjoy the process of getting ready because every step brings you closer to feeling calm, focused and confident during your performance.   How to prepare with intention: 1. Break it down — Practice small sections, especially tricky parts.   2. Visualise the

We’ve all been there — standing in front of an audience, heart racing… and suddenly, everything falls apart.   But Here’s The Thing:A setback like this, doesn’t define you. How you respond does!   Try This Quick Exercise:Think back to a time when your performance didn’t go the way you had hoped.   Now use

Growth Doesn’t Come from Pressure — It Comes from Care   In a strong, student-centered coaching environment, growth isn’t driven by pressure — it’s rooted in care.   This kind of environment creates space for kindness and encouragement, while still holding a clear and steady focus on high standards.   It’s not about lowering expectations

What if the problem isn’t a lack of talent — but a lack of the right support?!   💡 Sometimes, it’s not the instrument that’s intimidating — it’sthe limiting belief that you’re not good enough and/or not being seen.   Notes get tangled with self-doubt, and every mistake feels like proof…   “Maybe it’s too