In the lead up to the 2024 Great Romantics Competition on September 22, we sat down with Isla Biffin, last year’s winner of the Elisabeth Murdoch Prize. We found out about her pixie harp, living and studying in Austria, and performing at the Wales International Harp Festival.

Why did you choose your instrument?
My mum is also a musician, and when touring in Europe she found a tiny pixie harp and brought it back for me. I thought it was the best thing ever and couldn’t stop playing! Pretty soon I was playing the pedal harp. I love that I can play all the lines and harmonies on one instrument, and all the numerous colours and atmospheres I can create.

When did you start playing your instrument?
I started on Violin first, at age four, and picked up the harp when I was six. For many years I learnt both simultaneously, but towards the end of high school I realised that harp was the instrument for me.

Who are your musical heroes?
Growing up I always admired my parents, who are both musicians. They gave me the start and support I needed to get me where I am today. These days, I really admire harpists such as Anneleen Lenaerts and Emmanuel Ceysson, who are both incredible musicians and have such control and command over the harp.

What was it like to win the 2023 Great Romantics Competition?
It was an amazing experience just to get to play at the Melbourne Recital Centre. I really enjoyed performing on the stage and meeting the other competitors. Winning was a bonus! Romantic music is the genre I’m most passionate about as a player, so I’m really thrilled to have won. It’s been a huge help in funding me to continue my studies overseas and I’m very grateful for the opportunity.

What has been your performance highlight so far?
I would have to say performing at the Wales International Harp Festival as the winner of the chief musician competition. It was incredible, if somewhat nerve-wracking, to play in front of so many harpists with a program I really loved!

What pieces are you working on now? Most challenging aspects?
I’m currently preparing my final graduation recital, featuring some big works! The most challenging has been Bach Toccata and Fugue in D minor, originally for Organ. It’s taken me several months to tackle this work, there’s so many complex lines to follow and it needs to sound effortless, even though it’s a real workout for the fingers and the brain! I’m also playing two big romantic works for harp, Fauré Impromptu and Renie’s Piece Symphonique. I’m more familiar with the language of these pieces so I’ve really enjoyed the journey of discovering the finer details that really bring these pieces to life.

What do you like to do outside of practicing music?
I love to read; I can often be found by the river reading a good book after practice! I also love to get out and explore the beautiful nature that Austria has to offer – hiking, swimming! And after a long day, nothing beats cooking a delicious dinner or some baked sweets!

Any advice for 2024 Great Romantics applicants?
Romantic music is all about expressing stories and emotions, so pick a piece that means something to you. Don’t worry about making a few mistakes, no one minds (if they even notice!) If you enjoy playing the piece, the audience will enjoy listening.

Applications

Applications are now open and close on Wednesday 14 August 2024 at midnight (AEST).

Please ensure you download and read the Competition Guidelines before completing your application.

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