Osian Ellis

Osian Ellis was the long-time principal harpist for the London Symphony Orchestra. Ellis' varied interests and deep respect for his instrument's legacy led to a career that consisted of much more than just waiting for a chance to play. He was associated closely with Benjamin Britten but established a repertoire that stretched back to medieval music as well as the traditional harp music of Wales. Ellis toured extensively with tenor Sir Peter Pears from 1973 to 1980, prompting eager composers to submit songs to the duo. The Wales International Harp Festival in Caernarfon held a concert to honor Ellis' 90th birthday in 2018. The celebration inspired him to return to playing the harp. He also returned to composing, which resulted in a Lachrymae for solo harp and Cylch o Alawon Gwerin Cymru, written for bass-baritone Bryn Terfel and harpist Hannah Stone. Ellis died on January 5, 2021.