About Harp 2 Harp / Valley Road
Valley Road
Central Victorian folk duo Valley Road have been quietly captivating new fans over the last year with their stunning harmonies and heartfelt songs, since releasing their debut album made with acclaimed producer Rod McCormack in October 2023. Their music has garnered wide-spread radio play across Australia, including being featured as Album of the Week on ABC’s Saturday Night Country in November 2023.
The two friends, Rebecca Jane Howell and Marty Mckenna, have been singing together for over a decade; but winning the Troubadour Award in 2022 to record their first album helped propel their musical partnership to a new level. They weave their individual experiences into songs of people and place (usually sitting around Marty’s farmhouse kitchen table), exploring themes of loss, relationships and rural life, and bringing an Australian perspective to their diverse folk influences.
When Valley Road take to the stage, their friendship and musical connection shine through, drawing listeners into their rich inner worlds through their contrasting yet perfectly suited voices and delicate guitar playing.
“It's a distilled kind of beauty. A gently plucked guitar, a simple fiddle line and sweet melodies showcase the essence of their sound.”
Harp2Harp is an enchanting duo weaving the heavenly sounds of two harps and two female voices. Acclaimed pedal harpist/ soprano Emma Horwood joins forces with award winning singer/songwriter and folk harpist Visnja (which is pronounced ‘Vishnya’ for those who need some help with Slavic names!). With their two different harps and contrasting vocal timbres, Harp2Harp blend classical finesse with contemporary and world music flavours. If you love the melodic and evocative work of the likes of Kate Bush, Enya and Loreena McKennit, you will love Harp2Harp.
Emma Horwood is a renowned South Australian harpist and soprano who studied at the Elder Conservatorium. Her recordings have featured on ABC Classsic FM and she has presented critically acclaimed concerts around Australia, delighting audiences with her musicianship and repertoire of Celtic and fine music.
Visnja is an award-winning singer/songwriter drawing inspiration from Celtic, Balkan and contemporary folk sounds. Performing highlights include 9 Network’s Carols by Candlelight, the National Folk Festival in Canberra and numerous major events and productions around Australia.
Don’t miss these friends Emma and Visnja making beautiful music together as Harp2Harp!