Cultural Heritage Projects
Preservation, Conservation, and Restoration of Harp-related Artefacts, Practices, and Sites
OUR MISSION
At World Harp Day, we are dedicated to celebrating and preserving the rich heritage of the harp.
Our mission is to ensure that the beauty and history of this magnificent instrument are cherished and passed down to future generations.
We believe that the harp is not just an instrument, but a symbol of cultural identity and artistic expression that transcends borders.
In Collaboration with the
Australian Harp Community
The Restoration of Nicolas-Charles Bochsa’s Grave
World Harp Day, in partnership with local Australian harp societies, studios, and general public, is launching a project to restore the grave of Nicolas-Charles Bochsa, the legendary French harpist and composer whose final resting place in Camperdown Cemetery at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Sydney, has suffered extensive damage over time.
In order to bring this vision to life, we are seeking harpists and individuals in Sydney who can actively participate in the restoration efforts and coordinate local activities.
About Nicolas-Charles Bochsa
Born in 1789, Nicolas-Charles Bochsa was one of the most influential harpists and composers of the 19th century. He was a virtuoso performer, a music director, and co-founder of the Royal Academy of Music in London.
Despite his musical genius, he lived a controversial life, fleeing France due to financial scandals and becoming a key figure in the world music scene of a time. Bochsa’s later years were marked by an extraordinary journey across Europe, the United States, and Mexico alongside his lifelong companion, soprano Anna Bishop. His travels introduced the harp to new audiences and strengthened his legacy. At the dawn of his life, he arrived in Sydney, Australia, where he passed away on 6 January 1856.
His elaborate tomb, commissioned by Anna Bishop, has since deteriorated due to neglect and vandalism. Restoring this grave is not just about preserving history — it is about honouring the legacy of the most renowned harpist and composer of his time, a musician who established a whole new generation of performers, who still continues to influence and inspire harpists, musicians, and even composers and writers across centuries.
Target Date
6 January 2026
The 170th anniversary of Bochsa’s passing is the target date for unveiling the restored grave.
If the process requires more time due to approvals and restoration work, a presentation and fundraiser will be held on this date to showcase the progress and future plans.
Why This Project Matters
✅ Cultural Preservation –
Restoring the grave of one of the most influential harpists.
✅ Community Engagement –
Strengthening ties in the harp world locally and globally.
✅ Musical Heritage –
Educating new generations about Bochsa’s contributions.
✅ Symbol of Unity –
Demonstrating how music can bring people together across time and borders.
How You Can Help
Every contribution makes a difference, whether it is by donating below, volunteering locally, or spreading the word.
If you do choose to donate to this project, you are directly contributing to the preservation, conservation, and restoration of harp-related artefacts and heritage sites not only in Australia but also globally.
Together, we can ensure that the legacy of the harp continues to inspire and enrich lives for generations to come.
Make a donation
Join us in our journey to celebrate and protect the timeless beauty of the harp and its footprints in history.
Every contribution makes a difference.
Frequency
One time
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