Italian harpist Paola Baron presents the album Thomas: 12 Studies for Harp, dedicated to the collection of studies by Welsh composer John Thomas (1826–1913), a key figure in the history of the harp in the 19th century. Combining technical refinement with artistic sensitivity, Baron highlights the musical value of a repertoire that is still rarely heard on concert stages, yet essential to the training of harpists.

Paola Baron holds a master’s degree from the Mozarteum University of Salzburg, a PhD in Musicology from UNESP, and is a prizewinner of the International Competition of the Slovenian Harp Association. She has served as principal harpist with orchestras such as the Ljubljana Opera and Ballet Orchestra and is currently a member of the São Paulo Municipal Symphony Orchestra, in addition to teaching at EMESP. Renowned for her work as both a soloist and chamber musician, she has built a consistent career dedicated to the promotion of the harp repertoire.

John Thomas was one of the leading figures in establishing the harp as a concert instrument in the 19th century. Appointed official harpist to the British court in 1872, he taught at the Royal College of Music and the Guildhall School and was distinguished by both his international performances and his dedication to Welsh culture. His 12 Studies for Harp stands as one of the most expressive collections in the pedagogical and concert repertoire, exploring a wide range of technical aspects within a romantic, elegant, and accessible aesthetic.

Recorded in a solo interpretation by Paola Baron, the album reveals moments of great beauty within the technical demands proposed by Thomas. Among the works, 12 Studies for Harp: No. 1 highlights the continuous flow of notes in the right hand and melodic leaps in the left. In 12 Studies for Harp: No. 3, the alternation between arpeggios and octave passages requires precise control and articulation, while 12 Studies for Harp: No. 10 combines rhythmic clarity with expressive rubato in the chords. Each piece presents a distinct challenge, approached with musicality and technical mastery, resulting in a recording that makes a significant contribution to the dissemination of this repertoire.