
Autoharp competitions and showcases offer musicians a platform to demonstrate their skills, gain recognition, and connect with other enthusiasts. These events highlight the versatility of the autoharp and provide opportunities for players to compete, perform, and learn from one another. Whether you’re an aspiring competitor or a fan looking to enjoy top-notch performances, exploring these events can be an enriching experience. Here’s a guide to notable autoharp competitions and showcases that celebrate the instrument and its players.

1. Autoharp Championship at the Clifftop Appalachian String Band Festival
Overview
- Location: Clifftop, West Virginia, USA
- Event Type: Annual music festival with a focus on traditional Appalachian music
- Description: The Clifftop festival includes an autoharp championship that draws talented players from across the country to compete and showcase their skills.
- Features:
- Competition: Participants compete in various categories, showcasing their proficiency in traditional and contemporary autoharp music.
- Showcase Performances: Enjoy performances by competitors and other top autoharpists.
- Community Engagement: Connect with fellow enthusiasts and participate in jam sessions and workshops.
Why It’s Notable
- Prestigious Event: Recognized as a major event in the folk music community.
- Rich Tradition: Celebrates the rich tradition of Appalachian music and the autoharp’s role in it.
2. Autoharp Competition at the American Folklife Center
Overview
- Location: Washington, D.C., USA
- Event Type: Annual competition as part of a broader folk music celebration
- Description: The American Folklife Center hosts an autoharp competition that features talented players demonstrating their skills in a variety of musical styles.
- Features:
- Diverse Categories: Competitions include various categories, such as traditional folk and contemporary styles.
- Live Performances: Witness live performances by top competitors and established autoharpists.
- Workshops: Participate in workshops led by judges and experienced musicians.
Why It’s Notable
- Cultural Significance: Highlights the importance of the autoharp in American folk music traditions.
- Educational Component: Provides learning opportunities through workshops and performances.
3. Autoharp Showcase at the Folk Alliance International Conference
Overview
- Location: Various locations, North America
- Event Type: Annual conference for folk music professionals and enthusiasts
- Description: The Folk Alliance International Conference features an autoharp showcase where players can perform and demonstrate their talent to a diverse audience.
- Features:
- Showcase Performances: Enjoy performances by emerging and established autoharpists.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with other musicians, industry professionals, and enthusiasts.
- Educational Sessions: Attend educational sessions on autoharp techniques and performance.
Why It’s Notable
- Broad Reach: Offers exposure to a wide audience of folk music professionals and fans.
- Industry Networking: Provides opportunities for networking within the music industry.
4. Autoharp Talent Show at Regional Folk Festivals
Overview
- Location: Various regional folk festivals
- Event Type: Talent shows featuring autoharp performances
- Description: Regional folk festivals often include talent shows where autoharp players can showcase their skills and compete for recognition.
- Features:
- Competitive Performances: Players compete in talent shows, demonstrating their skills in front of judges and audiences.
- Community Events: Engage with the local folk music community and participate in related activities.
- Recognition: Receive awards and recognition for standout performances.
Why It’s Notable
- Local Focus: Provides opportunities for local and regional players to gain recognition.
- Community Engagement: Strengthens connections within the local folk music community.
5. Autoharp Showcases at Music Camps and Retreats
Overview
- Location: Various music camps and retreats
- Event Type: Showcases as part of broader music camp programs
- Description: Many music camps and retreats include showcases where autoharp players can perform and receive feedback from peers and instructors.
- Features:
- Performance Opportunities: Perform in showcases as part of the camp’s program.
- Feedback: Receive constructive feedback from instructors and fellow participants.
- Collaborative Learning: Engage in collaborative learning experiences with other musicians.
Why It’s Notable
- Immersive Experience: Offers a focused environment for learning and performing.
- Skill Development: Provides opportunities for feedback and growth.
6. Online Autoharp Competitions
Overview
- Location: Virtual platforms
- Event Type: Online competitions and showcases
- Description: Online platforms host autoharp competitions and showcases, allowing players from around the world to participate and compete virtually.
- Features:
- Virtual Submissions: Submit performance videos for evaluation and competition.
- Global Participation: Compete with players from across the globe.
- Online Voting: Participate in or observe online voting and feedback sessions.
Why It’s Notable
- Accessibility: Allows global participation and reaches a wider audience.
- Flexibility: Provides a flexible format for competitors and organizers.
7. Autoharp Competitions at State and County Fairs
Overview
- Location: Various state and county fairs in the USA
- Event Type: Competitions as part of larger fair events
- Description: Some state and county fairs feature autoharp competitions where local musicians can showcase their talent and compete for prizes.
- Features:
- Local Competitions: Participate in competitions at local fairs and festivals.
- Prizes and Awards: Compete for various prizes and awards.
- Community Involvement: Engage with the local community and audience.
Why It’s Notable
- Local Exposure: Provides opportunities for local musicians to gain recognition.
- Community Engagement: Connects with community members and fairgoers.
Conclusion
Autoharp competitions and showcases provide valuable platforms for players to demonstrate their skills, gain recognition, and connect with other enthusiasts. From prestigious festivals and conferences to local fairs and online platforms, these events celebrate the versatility and artistry of the autoharp. Whether you’re looking to compete, perform, or simply enjoy the performances of others, participating in or attending these events can offer an enriching and inspiring experience for autoharp musicians and fans alike.