Ivy Hull: Harpist

Music is a way we can glorify the Lord. Throughout all of scripture we see references to God’s people worshiping him in song and instrument. Ivy Hull has taken this idea and works it out in her life in her playing of the harp.

Hull picked up the stringed instrument only two years ago after a trip to Michigan. “We stayed in a hotel during a trip and, there was a harpist in the lobby every night playing beautiful music which attracted me to the instrument”. It wasn’t until later at piano practice she decided to ask her teacher, Cheril Rios, if she would mind teaching her how to play the instrument.

Depending on the week she can practice anywhere from 2-3 hours. Hull has an advantage over others who might have picked up the instrument recently with her amazing ability to read sheet music from her time in piano since 2^nd grade. She has grown in confidence over the last few years, playing more boldly and loudly. She believes she is doing what she has been created to do reflecting God’s beauty and glory through song. Being a harpist is very meticulous with not only reading the music, but also perfecting timing.

She has performed in two recitals, one last spring and most recently one during Christmas where she played with nine other harpists from all across America. The group, all previous students of her teacher, came back to play with each other for the event. Hull recalls this as one of her favorite memories, due to the fact that after only a few hours of meeting each other it felt like she had known them for years. Ivy looks up to her teacher who is kind and patient with her, stating that she helps bring out the best of her abilities while also showing grace during mistakes. Her favorite piece is Noël, Noël French Christmas as well as the solo piece Carol the Bells.

Before each performance Hull prays she touches people with her music, and they see Jesus. She has grown in her faith due to her love of music overflowing into worshipping Christ more. She knows her ability to play these instruments has come from her creator and is grateful to worship him through music. “It pays off the be who you have been created to be”.