Preparations are underway to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the International Harp Contest in Israel, one of Israel's oldest and most successful musical endeavors. As young aspiring harpists the world over are preparing to participate in the 17th International Harp Contest in Israel, we in Israel are planning what promises to be an unprecedented musical experience for contestants and public alike. Once again, thanks to the enthusiastic and generous support of harpist and philanthropist, Yoko Nagae Ceschina, the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra will participate in the Contest. The IPO, accompanying several of the winners of the previous 16 Contests, will perform in a special 50th. Anniversary Celebration Gala Concert.

I am happy to preside as Honorary President of the 50th Anniversary Celebration of the International Harp Contest in Israel. I am proud to note that the level of performance on the harp, the abundance of new music composed for the harp and the greater public awareness of the beauty of this heavenly instrument that has blossomed over the past half century, is primarily fruit reaped from the Harp Contest in Israel. Many talented young harpists have been launched on their way to fine careers.

The vast and varied required repertoire of this Contest spans nearly 400 years of music history. One need not win a prize to benefit from this Contest. It is enough to prepare it! Those who participate will have the opportunity to perform Chamber Music with leading Israeli musicians as well as listen and learn from the performances of their peers. I urge harpists everywhere to come and share this unique musical experience.

Zubin Mehta
Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Music Director for Life