Flautist Angela Harnett is launching her debut album Heart on Saturday, February 11, at the new Yoga Centre, Hack Street, Mt Barker.
Angela, who lives at Littlehampton, will be telling the story behind the album and the benefits of relaxation music.
As a young child she loved music, and when she heard the flute for the first time she knew that was what she wanted to play.
She had her first lesson at the age of nine, and eventually went on to university to study classical music, majoring in flute performance.
But there her problems started.
“Excessive practice routines were encouraged by my teacher, and I soon became caught up in the competitive environment and striving for perfection,” she said.
“I believed I was happy because I had a purpose and was always busy, but in reality I was miserable and tired, and couldn’t switch off from this endless cycle and relax.”
By the time Angela was in her final year, she had severe pain in her arms, neck and shoulders, from all the hours of practicing, stress and tension, and had to leave university mid-term.
She returned later to complete her final year studying the history of music, but was unable to play her flute.
Angela became interested in meditation and relaxation, and began enjoying the simple things such as going for walks and reading good books.
“Being inspired and happy became more important than being perfect,” she said.
After 11 years she gradually became well enough to play again.
“It was pure joy,” she said.
Angela also began the long process of learning to use a computer, music software and recording equipment.
The result is her first album Heart.
It will be launched at 2.15pm, part of the opening celebrations at Unfold Yoga and Wellbeing Centre at 26 Hack Street, Mt Barker.

For the full report, see the print issue of The Courier.