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Thursday, July 30
 

07:00 EDT

In Stillness, Part II: The Spaces in Between
Thursday July 30, 2026 07:00 - 08:15 EDT
Birchwood Ballroom
Exploring and Experiencing Contemplative Music - creating immersive experiences that invite stillness, deeper awareness and reflection through mindful programming and intentional listening practices.


Session 2 - Inspirations, improvisation and repertoire suggestions; preparing yourself; embracing this genre for self-practice. Experience the journey inward as Kimberly performs “The Spaces in Between” (electric harp).

Presenters
avatar for Merynda Adams

Merynda Adams

Merynda Adams, praised for her color and facility by the Star-Ledger and called "the highlight of the night" by The New York Times, has performed across the U.S., Europe, and Canada, including off-Broadway in The Fantasticks. Her teachers include Kathleen Bride, Erika Waardenburg, Gloria Agostini, and Elisabeth Fontan-Binoche. Merynda is founder of Chamber Music for Charity, teaches at Drew University, and has led workshops at the Frost School of Music, Royal Northern College of Music, and the Cap-Ferret Musi... Read More →
avatar for Kimberly Snaufer Derosa

Kimberly Snaufer Derosa

Kimberly Snaufer DeRosa, known for her “stunningly beautiful” expression, has performed across North America, in the UK, and in Australia. Her career as performer and educator includes traditional and innovative collaborations, reflective sound immersions, founding/directing the... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 07:00 - 08:15 EDT
Birchwood Ballroom
  Participatory Workshop, Healh & Wellness

08:30 EDT

Move Well, Play Better: #2 Tools for overcoming Performance Anxiety
Thursday July 30, 2026 08:30 - 09:20 EDT
Willow East
Move Well, Play Better: A Course of 5 Practical Interactive Workshops Exporing Our First Instrument (The Body) In Relation To Our Second (The Harp) Presented by Imogen Barford and Fiona Tree, both highly experienced harpists and teachers of the Alexander Technique.

Session #2 Practical Tools for Overcoming Performance Anxiety - How to transform stress problems.
Presenters
avatar for Imogen Barford

Imogen Barford

Imogen Barford runs the 'Move Well, Play Better' programme of Alexander Technique and Body Mapping at the Guildhall School of Music in London, where she is Head of Harp. As well as a wide-ranging harp career, she holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Performing Arts Medicine.
Thursday July 30, 2026 08:30 - 09:20 EDT
Willow East
  Participatory Workshop, Health & Wellbeing

09:00 EDT

AHS IDEA Round Table
Thursday July 30, 2026 09:00 - 09:45 EDT
Willow
Join the IDEA Committee for an engaging Round Table discussion spotlighting distinguished guest Zachary Hatcher. He currently serves as Principal Harpist of the Danish National Symphony Orchestra and as a faculty member at the Royal Danish Academy of Music. His work exemplifies artistry grounded in diplomacy, cultural engagement, and collaborative exchange. This session will highlight his professional journey and perspectives, offering attendees a thoughtful exploration of how musicians can foster connection and dialogue across borders.
Presenters
avatar for Juan Riveros

Juan Riveros

Michigan State University
Juan Riveros serves as the AHS Diversity Coordinator and the IDEA Committee (Co-Chair). Riveros is currently the Associate Professor of Harp at Michigan State University, and Principal Harpist of the Flint Symphony Orchestra and Detroit Opera.
Thursday July 30, 2026 09:00 - 09:45 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre
  Lecture, Panel Discussion

09:00 EDT

USA IHC Ruth Inglefield Composition Contest: 2025 Finalists & Panel
Thursday July 30, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 EDT
Grand East
A lecture/recital about contest opportunities for composers, featuring two finalists from the USAIHC 8th Ruth Inglefield Composition Contest, and a panel discussion presented by leaders of new music opportunites for composers and performers.
Presenters
avatar for Evelyn Thienert

Evelyn Thienert

Evelyn Theinert is a German-American harpist whose passion to help others shapes her artistic journey. She performed in ensembles from Germany to D.C., and loves chamber music, lm scores, and premiering works, including her own compositions. Presently, she is pursuing the Master of... Read More →
avatar for Sonja Inglefield

Sonja Inglefield

The USA International Harp Competition was founded in 1989 by world-renowned harpist Susann McDonald. As part of its mission to promote harp music, the USAIHC sponsors a Composition Contest every three years, prior to the performance Competition. A distinguished panel of harpists... Read More →
avatar for Alice Giles

Alice Giles

Alice Giles is the First Prize winner of the 8th Israel International Harp Contest. In a singularly wide-ranging career she has performed in London’s Wigmore Hall, New York's 92nd St Y, the Frankfurt Alte Oper, and Mawson Station, Antarctica and as a concerto soloist and guest at... Read More →
avatar for Nicoletta Sanzin

Nicoletta Sanzin

Nicoletta Sanzin is Principal harpist of the Slovenska Filharmonija, and a very active performer both as soloist and chamber musician in Italy and abroad. She holds positions as Professor of Harp at G.Tartini Conservatory in Trieste and at S.Cecilia Portogruaro. As a member of the... Read More →
avatar for Kalen Smith

Kalen Smith

Kalen Smith (b.2001) is an award-winning Canadian composer and harpist. His compositions combine his experience as a performer on harp, tonal music structures, contemporary techniques from his academic studies, and effects from electronic music. The result is a musical style akin... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 EDT
Grand East
  Lecture, Lecture Recital

09:30 EDT

Harp Works of Marjan Mozetich and Eileen Padgett 🍁
Thursday July 30, 2026 09:30 - 10:00 EDT
Grand Ballroom
The harp works of Marjan Mozetich and his former student Eileen Padgett, each shaped by reflections on nature and nurture, reveal two unique voices in dialogue across generations. This concert will explore the relationship between the two composers Marjan Mozetich and Eileen Padgett, who had followed his composition courses. Referencing Mozetich's Songs of Nymphs (excerpted performance), this presentation will include performances of Padgett's Memories in Water, and the world premiere of Eileen Padgett's Waltz after Dark, primarily composed for orchestra, transcribed for the harp on Claire's request by Eileen Padgett.
Presenters
avatar for Claire Augier De Lajallet

Claire Augier De Lajallet

Claire Augier de Lajallet is a French harpist whose debut CD Memories (2023, Klarthe) received widespread critical acclaim. Based between France and Germany, she is an active freelance musician, performing as a soloist, chamber musician, and guest harpist with major European orchestras... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 09:30 - 10:00 EDT
Grand Ballroom Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel
  Performance, Canadian Music & Musicians

09:30 EDT

When the Harp Dances: Iconic works transcribed for Harp 🍁
Thursday July 30, 2026 09:30 - 10:30 EDT
Birchwood Ballroom
The Firebird for Solo Harp (Ben Albertson): An arrangement performance of Stravinsky's 1919 Firebird Suite for Solo Harp 

When the Saint Marches (Lenka Petrović): Featuring solo harp transcriptions of piano compositions by Mozart, Ravel, and Kodály, the common thread in this program is dance.
Presenters
avatar for Ben Albertson

Ben Albertson

Ben Albertson is an accomplished harpist with over eighteen years of performance experience across the United States, Canada, and Europe. Ben is in his third season as the principal harpist of the Tucson Symphony Orchestra; he was appointed adjunct professor of harp at the University... Read More →
avatar for Lenka Petrović

Lenka Petrović

Serbian harpist Lenka Petrović is the first prize winner of the 20th International Harp Contest in Israel and also won the Bronze Medal at the 10th USA International Harp Competition in Bloomington. Lenka is principal harpist of the Concerto Budapest Symphony Orchestra and has been... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 09:30 - 10:30 EDT
Birchwood Ballroom
  Performance, Solo Harp

10:00 EDT

The Harpist’s Digital Toolbox: Mastering the iPad for Practice, Performance, & Teaching
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00 - 10:45 EDT
Osgoode West
A practical session on using the iPad to enhance practice, performance, and teaching—bringing organization, creativity, and modern efficiency to every harpist’s daily routine.
Presenters
avatar for Kaffee Peck

Kaffee Peck

Kaffee Peck is a Malaysian-born harpist, composer, and educator based in California. She holds the Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Southern California. With a background in piano and classical guitar, she brings cross-cultural and multi-instrumental influences... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00 - 10:45 EDT
Osgoode West
  Lecture, Technology

10:00 EDT

Conversations on Mental Illness through Music
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00 - 10:50 EDT
Willow East
This concert-presentation encourages open conversations about mental illnesses that many musicians live with, through personal stories and commissioned works by Caroline Lizotte and Nathan Cornelius.
Presenters
avatar for Heather Cornelius

Heather Cornelius

Heather Cornelius’ research and performance projects focus on helping music teachers empower students experiencing mental health challenges. She obtained Doctor of Musical Arts and Master of Music degrees from the University of Minnesota, studying with Kathy Kienzle. She earned... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00 - 10:50 EDT
Willow East
  Lecture, Health & Wellbeing

10:00 EDT

Exhibit Hall Open
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00 - 18:00 EDT
Vendor Exhibit Hall
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:00 - 18:00 EDT
Vendor Exhibit Hall
  Exhibits

10:30 EDT

Focus on Youth 🍁
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:30 - 12:30 EDT
Church of the Holy Trinity
10.30 Jiayang Li, China
Henriette Renié (1875-1956) - Pièce symphonique
Ruan Ji (3rd Century) - Ravings while drinking, an ancient Guqin song

10.50 Xi Yu Ge Liu, China
Marcel Grandjany (1891-1975) - Fantasie sur un Thème de Haydn
Guillaume Connesson (1970) - Toccata (2023)

11.10 Reina Yoshida, Japan
Ekaterina Walter-Kühne (1870-1930) - Fantasy on Themes from Tsjaikowski’s opera Eugene Onegin
Pierick Houdy (1929-2021) - Sonate pour harpe: Allegro moderato, Lento, Vivo

11.30 Charisma Chow, Canada
Reinhold Glière (1875-1956) - Impromptu
Lori Pappajohn - Girl in the Red Skirt
Charisma Chow (2013) - Entremet Rhapsody

11.50 Siyu Luo, China 
Giovanni Battista Pescetti (1704-1766) - Sonata in C-minor for harp: Allegro vigoroso, Andante espressivo, Presto
Pearl Chertok (1918-1981) - Harpicide at midnight (from Around the Clock Suite)

12.10 Kaitlyn Tan and Yen Yu Chow, Singapore
Carlos Salzedo (1885-1961) - Ballade
Kaitlyn Tan, harp
Paul Patterson (1947) - Scorpions
Kaitlyn Tan & Yen Yu Chow, harp
Presenters
avatar for Jiayang Li

Jiayang Li

Focus on Youth
Jiayang Li studies with Guan Wang in the high school affiliated with the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing. She has received awards in multiple international competitions including the gold medal in Group F in the 7th Hong Kong International Harp Competition, first prize in... Read More →
avatar for Liu Xiyuge

Liu Xiyuge

Liu Xiyuge began studying the harp with her mother at age 5. She is a student at the Primary School Affiliated to the Central Conservatory of Music. She has won numerous awards including in the Ukraine International Harp Competition, the Serbia International Music Competition, the China Har... Read More →
avatar for Reina Yoshida

Reina Yoshida

Reina Yoshida (b. 2008, Japan) began her harp studies under the guidance of Atsuko Sato and now continues with Ms. Sato and Alexander Boldachev. Her musical achievements include First Prize and a Special Award in the Junior Division of the Osaka International Music Competition (2023... Read More →
avatar for Charisma Kate Chow

Charisma Kate Chow

Focus on Youth, AHS Young Composers Project
Eleven year old Charisma Kate Chow began studying harp at the age of four, in her hometown of Hong Kong, where she studied with Ann Huang at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts. Charisma currently studies with Dr. Joy Yeh at the Vancouver Academy of Music. Charisma aspires to... Read More →
avatar for Luo Siyu

Luo Siyu

Focus on Youth
13 year old Luo Siyu studies in the Central Conservatory of Music Middle School in China, with Professor Wang Guan. Siyu won first prize in the 2024 Japan Soka International Harp Competition, first place with a perfect score in the National Pedal Harp Competition at the 2023 China... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 10:30 - 12:30 EDT
Church of the Holy Trinity 10 Trinity Square, Toronto, ON, M5G 1B1
  Focus on Youth Recital, Solo Harp

11:00 EDT

International Competition Winners in Recital
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00 - 12:30 EDT
Grand Ballroom
2024 ARD Award winner Tjasha Gafner and 2025 USAIHC Gold Medalist Shamim Minoo present programs showcasing distinct and personal approaches to repertoire for the harp. 

Shamim Minoo performs a program of touchstone works on her personal musical journey, aiming to bring together contrasting styles, emotions, and colors.  Tjasha Gafner explores how composers use humour to look at the world differently.
Presenters
avatar for Shamim Minoo

Shamim Minoo

Shamim Minoo is an internationally recognized Iranian harpist. She won the Gold Medal and Renié Prize at the 13th USA International Harp Competition (2025). She studied at the Conservatoire régional de Paris with Ghislaine Petit-Volta and earned her master’s degree at the Conservatoire... Read More →
avatar for Tjasha Gafner

Tjasha Gafner

Swiss harpist Tjasha Gafner won First and Audience Prizes at the 2023 ARD International Music Competition. Named by Die Zeit among Germany’s 30 most influential under 30, she studied at Juilliard and the Haute École de Musique de Lausanne. Soloist from age ten in venues including... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:00 - 12:30 EDT
Grand Ballroom Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel
  Performance, Solo Harp

11:30 EDT

Celebrating Henriette Renie’s Legacy through Intermedia
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:30 - 12:15 EDT
Willow
This recital will feature Renie’s photographs and writings interwoven with ensemble performances of her works and modern-day photographs of the places that inspired Renie’s compositions.
Presenters
avatar for Jaymee Haefner

Jaymee Haefner

International Harp Archives & UNT Harp Beats
Jaymee Haefner (DM, MM, BM), is the University Distinguished Research Professor of Harp and Director of Graduate Studies at the University of North Texas, Denton, Texas. She has premiered works by composers Libby Larsen, Paul Patterson, and Gary Schocker; taught masterclasses in the... Read More →
Ensembles
avatar for UNT Harp Beats

UNT Harp Beats

The UNT Harp Beats have attracted national attention for their innovative and diverse recitals since 2006. The ensemble has performed worldwide, including appearances in Hong Kong (Center for Performing Arts), Chicago (Lyon & Healy Hall), Orlando, San Antonio, New Orleans, Fort Worth... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:30 - 12:15 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre
  Lecture, History & Practice

11:30 EDT

Exploring Compositions of Jeffrey Mumford
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:30 - 12:15 EDT
St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church
Workshop on composer Jeffrey Mumford and his inspirations including Elliott Carter or Claude Debussy
Presenters
avatar for Anne-Sophie Bertrand

Anne-Sophie Bertrand

Anne-Sophie Bertrand is Principal Harpist of the Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra and Visiting Professor at the Royal Academy of Music, London, as well as faculty at the Akademie für Tonkunst, Darmstadt. A laureate of international competitions, she has performed at Wigmore Hall... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:30 - 12:15 EDT
St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church 73 Simcoe St, Toronto, ON M5J 1W9, Canada
  Lecture, Lecture Recital

11:30 EDT

Everyday Harp Care: Regulation
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 EDT
Osgoode West
Regulation:  What is it, what is the standard work and what is not, how to prepare and avoid appointment sabotage.

Daily harp care education sessions covering maintenance, repair, and preservation, guided by a panel of Certified Harp Technicians sharing expert insights and practical techniques.

Presenters
avatar for Jo Baee

Jo Baee

Jo Baée is a certified harp technician and professional harpist based in NSW, Australia. She was first inspired by the harp around 10 years of age. She holds a degree in harp performance, and apprenticed as a harp technician with Lyon & Healy and Salvi harp makers. Jo enjoys being... Read More →
avatar for Gabriel Diaz

Gabriel Diaz

Gabriel was introduced to the harp when he was brought on to help out at an AHS competition. He began his career as a harp technician when he was hired to work with master harp technician Peter Wiley. Gabriel is a Lyon & Healy/Salvi certified technician (2023), and devoted to maintaining... Read More →
avatar for Peter Wiley

Peter Wiley

Harp Doctor Llc
For over 40 years Peter Wiley has enjoyed sharing his passion for harp care in 16 countries. Working for Lyon & Healy from 1984-2005 he has cared for harps freelance since. Peter loves to bring his experience to life by sharing and educating harpists whenever the chance rises.
avatar for Danielle Williams

Danielle Williams

Danielle is a certified Lyon & Healy and Salvi harp technician and guild member. Current areas of service include the United States (all regions), Mexico, and Australia.
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 EDT
Osgoode West
  Lecture

11:30 EDT

Kevin Le Pennec
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 EDT
Birchwood Ballroom
Coming Out is a vibrant set of original songs for harp and voice, where trad influences emerge in
different ways — through rhythms, melodies, or the lyrics themselves.
Drawn from Kevin Le Pennec’s new 2026 album Coming Out, the program blends these roots with
contemporary and pop-infused colours to explore queer, feminist and humanist themes with poetic
writing, a rhythmic, expressive harp, and a clear, compelling vocal presence.
Moving between driving grooves, quiet intimacy and luminous energy, this performance creates a
space where identity, freedom and modern folk sensibilities meet. A vibrant, intimate and deeply human program.
Presenters
avatar for Kevin Le Pennec

Kevin Le Pennec

Kevin Le Pennec, trained as a traditional musician in Brittany, France, is a harpist, singer and composer recognised for his expressive, rhythm-driven lever harp style and his clear, compelling voice. Active as both a soloist and ensemble musician, he has performed widely across Europe... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 EDT
Birchwood Ballroom
  Performance, Solo Harp

11:45 EDT

Become a Better Sight reader, Part 1: Classical and Popular Styles
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:45 - 12:30 EDT
Grand East
Explore resources and training options that support building improvisational skills and confidence! 
Presenters
avatar for Felice Pomeranz

Felice Pomeranz

Felice Pomeranz is Professor of Harp at Berklee College of Music, in Boston, Massachusetts. She is an author, performer, presenter, and instructor worldwide. Pomeranz directs The Gilded Harps, a music consortium of the best harpists and instrumentalists in New England. She is active... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 11:45 - 12:30 EDT
Grand East
  Participatory Workshop, History & Practice

12:30 EDT

Central Conservatory of Music Harp Ensemble
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:30 - 13:00 EDT
Open Stage, Vide Lobby
The Echo6 Harp Ensemble is from the Middle School affiliated to the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing China. Original work, world premiere — a Chinese story that blends classical and innovative elements, fusing Western instruments with Eastern motifs.



Program
  • Waterweed Dance.            Du Ming Xin/Wu Zu Qiang,  Arranged by Sun Xiao Song
  • Coral Dance
  • Tableaux d’une exposition excerpts              M. Ravel, Arranged by Yu Tong ZHANG 
  • Echoes of the Kindred Spirit Composer.        Yu Tong ZHANG  
Presenters
avatar for Guan Wang

Guan Wang

Mrs. Guan Wang is a professor and doctoral supervisor of harp at the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing China, as well as the deputy director of the Teaching and Research Office for Percussion, Harp,and Guitar. She is a member of the Board of the World Harp Congress. Her outstanding... Read More →
Ensembles
avatar for CCOM Harp Ensemble

CCOM Harp Ensemble

The members of CCOM Harp Ensemble all come from the Middle School Affiliated to the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing China, where they are students of Professor Guan Wang. Ranging in age from 12 to 16 years old, each of these young musicians is an international competition... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 12:30 - 13:00 EDT
Open Stage, Vide Lobby
  Performance, Harp Ensemble

14:00 EDT

Symphonic Journeys: Morphose Trio
Thursday July 30, 2026 14:00 - 14:30 EDT
Birchwood Ballroom
Symphonic Tales (Morphose Trio): An enchanting programme that brings timeless stories to life through arrangements for saxophone, viola, and harp of some of the most beloved orchestral pieces.
Presenters
avatar for Judith Soumillion

Judith Soumillion

Judith Soumillion holds the Bachelor of Music degree from the LUCA School of Arts, Belgium, the Master of Music degree from the Conservatorium Maastricht, the Netherlands, with further studies at the Norwegian Academy of Music, Norway. She won the Henriette Hustinx Prize in 2018 with... Read More →
avatar for Cédric Delvaux

Cédric Delvaux

Saxophone, Morphose Trio
Cédric Delvaux is a versatile Belgian saxophonist, active as a soloist, orchestral and chamber musician. Driven by innovation, he explores the boundaries of his instrument by performing in ensembles with unconventional formations and collaborating with composers and other art forms... Read More →
avatar for Xavier Timmermans

Xavier Timmermans

Viola, Morphose Trio
Xavier Timmermans is a Belgian violist with a wide-ranging artistic profile. Curious and open-minded, he enjoys expanding his repertoire and exploring new ways of sharing music with audiences. His performances span a broad spectrum of styles, from Baroque and Classical to Romantic... Read More →
Ensembles
avatar for Morphose Trio

Morphose Trio

Morphose Trio is a unique Belgian chamber music ensemble with an exceptional combination of instruments: saxophone, viola, and harp. Their mission is to go beyond the well-trodden paths of the classical music landscape. The trio creates new music in collaboration with composers and... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 14:00 - 14:30 EDT
Birchwood Ballroom
  Performance, Chamber Music

14:00 EDT

AI marketing: enhancing personalization and social media exposure for music entrepreneurship.
Thursday July 30, 2026 14:00 - 14:45 EDT
Osgoode West
Jessica Yuen is an internationally recognized Canadian musician & educator whose work bridges artistry and innovation.She has performing in concerts across Asia, Europe, and North America, with a debut at Suntory Hall, Tokyo, and recordings in Paris and Switzerland. Having mentored over 1,800 students, she also focuses her academic research on AI marketing inmusic and education entrepreneurship, curating refined, forward-thinking artistic experiences.

Presenters
avatar for Jessica Yuen

Jessica Yuen

Jessica Yuen is an internationally recognized Canadian musician & educator whose work bridges artistry and innovation. She has performed in concerts across Asia, Europe, and North America, with a debut at Suntory Hall, Tokyo, and recordings in Paris and Switzerland. Having mentored... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 14:00 - 14:45 EDT
Osgoode West
  Lecture, Technology

14:00 EDT

Spanish Reflections I
Thursday July 30, 2026 14:00 - 14:45 EDT
Grand East
Concert featuring works transcribed by Susann McDonald and Linda Wood Rollo from the Spanish Music collections that have expanded harp repertoire worldwide. 

Moderators
avatar for Kirsten Agresta-Copely

Kirsten Agresta-Copely

Kirsten Agresta Copely is a two-time GRAMMY® nominated harpist and composer known for her distinctive blend of classical virtuosity and cinematic ambiance. She has appeared at major venues worldwide, including the White House, Carnegie Hall, and the Muziekgebouw while maintaining an active career as... Read More →
Presenters
avatar for Emmanuel Padilla Holguín

Emmanuel Padilla Holguín

Mexican harpist Emmanuel Padilla Holguín became the first Latin American harpist to win an international harp competition by receiving 1st prize and the Audience Award at the Dutch Harp Competition 2016. He is the first harpist to be part of the prestigious group of soloists “Concertistas... Read More →
avatar for Mieko Inoue

Mieko Inoue

World Harp Congress
Mieko Inoue graduated from Toho Gakuen School of Music completing its advanced program studying with Josef Molnar. She studied at Indiana University earning the Performers Diploma with Susann McDonald. Mieko is Vice President for Asia of the World Harp Congress, currently a visiting... Read More →
avatar for Marcelo Penido Da Silva

Marcelo Penido Da Silva

Marcelo Penido earned his Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees in Harp Performance from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music, studying with Susann McDonald. Penido serves professor de Harp at the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais in Brazil. He has performed with the lead... Read More →
avatar for Tine Rehling

Tine Rehling

Tine Rehling graduated from Royal Danish Academy of Music and IU School of Music, studying with Susann McDonald.  She is the winner of several Danish music awards, including the recent Wilhelm Hansen Foundation Honorary Award. Tine performs as soloist and chamber musician in Denmark... Read More →
avatar for Elisa Torres

Elisa Torres

Elisa Torres is principal harpist of the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra. She earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in harp performance from Indiana University under the tutelage of Susann McDonald. An active soloist and chamber musician, she also records across genres and for film. Her ind... Read More →
avatar for Celia Chan Valerio

Celia Chan Valerio

Celia Chan Valerio is the former principal harpist of the Sarasota Orchestra and Harp Professor at Cal Baptist University, La Sierra University, and the University of California Riverside. She is a multiple winner in the Anne Adams Awards and won top prizes in the American String... Read More →
avatar for Erin Wood

Erin Wood

Erin Wood’s first international performance was at the Seventh World Harp Congress in Prague as part of the only chamber ensemble selected for the Focus on Youth series. She is delighted to be appearing again with a flute, harp, and viola trio. Erin teaches harp at the University... Read More →

Thursday July 30, 2026 14:00 - 14:45 EDT
Grand East
  Performance, Solo Harp

14:00 EDT

Strings, Voice & Rhythm: The Harp Reimagined with Pia Salvia
Thursday July 30, 2026 14:00 - 14:45 EDT
Willow
Harpist-vocalist Pia Salvia infuses Jazz, Pop, and World music with her distinctive sound, joined by drummer Noam Israeli for a unique, dynamic performance.
Presenters
avatar for Noam Israeli

Noam Israeli

Drums
Noam Israeli is a Los Angeles–based drummer, producer, and recording artist known for his dynamic sound and global musical approach. A Berklee College of Music graduate with a Master’s in Performance and Production, he was also selected for the prestigious Berklee Global... Read More →
avatar for Pia Salvia

Pia Salvia

Award-winning Belgian harpist, vocalist, and composer Pia Salvia is known for blending jazz, pop, and world influences into a uniquely expressive sound. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, she has performed at major festivals including the Hollywood Bowl, Festival Mundial del... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 14:00 - 14:45 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre
  Performance, Contemporary Styles

14:00 EDT

Baroque Concertos for the Arpa Doppia
Thursday July 30, 2026 14:00 - 15:00 EDT
St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church

Presenters
avatar for Matthew Antal

Matthew Antal

Viola, Elixir Ensemble Toronto
Matthew Antal was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Toronto under Katharine Rapoport and a master’s degree from the University of Victoria under Joanna Hood, both in viola performance. He is a regular performer with several... Read More →
avatar for Maria Christina Cleary

Maria Christina Cleary

Multi disciplinary harpist Maria Christina Cleary specializes in research and performance on historical harps. Her  PhD thesis, “Harpe Organisée, 1720-1840: Rediscovering the lost pedal techniques on harps with a single-action pedal mechanism”, is the first monograph on pedalling... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 14:00 - 15:00 EDT
St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church 73 Simcoe St, Toronto, ON M5J 1W9, Canada
  Performance

14:00 EDT

Music for Harp and Percussion 🍁
Thursday July 30, 2026 14:00 - 15:30 EDT
Grand Ballroom
World Premiere of "JSB SE RS" for harp and vibraphone (Sanya Eng & Ryan Scott): Composer Chris Paul Harman describes this World Premiere as follows: "Twenty-five refashioned chorales by J.S. Bach are presented in a quasi-continuous narrative that explores new twists in tonal harmony and rhythm, and subtle contrasts in timbre and texture between the harp and vibraphone."

Harp from the Mexican perspective (Eugenia Espinales Correa): Compositions selected from different backgrounds in the Mexican academic music landscape. Bernardo Feldman, Onirican; Arturo Márquez, Son a Tamayo; Leticia Cuen Suite de los Olvidos

Canadian music for harp and percussion (Angela Schwarzkopf): Original award winning compositions for vibraphone and harp written by Canadian composers Cecilia Livingston and Elisha Denburg.
Presenters
avatar for Juan Martínez Cortés

Juan Martínez Cortés

Percussion
Juan Martínez Cortés completed his Master ́s Degree at the Royal Conservatoire (The Hague, Netherlands) and his Bachelor ́s Degree at the Universidad Veracruzana Music Faculty (Mexico). Juan has performed in 25 countries around Europe, Asia, Africa and America, working with different... Read More →
avatar for Eugenia Espinales Correa

Eugenia Espinales Correa

Graduated with honors from the Faculty of Music at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and the École Normale de Musique de Paris “Alfred Cortot” under the guidance of Isabelle Perrin. Eugenia has performed as a soloist with orchestras in Mexico, given recitals... Read More →
avatar for Angela Schwarzkopf

Angela Schwarzkopf

Angela Schwarzkopf concertizes throughout North America as soloist, chamber, and orchestral musician. She is the guest principal harpist of the National Arts Centre Orchestra, Ottawa, and principal harpist with the London, Ontario, Symphonia. Angela is the first harpist to earn the... Read More →
avatar for Etienne Levesque

Etienne Levesque

Percussion
Étienne Levesque (MMus UofT) is known for his versatility as a percussionist. He has been sought after to perform in orchestras, opera companies, and musicals throughout Eastern Canada, such as Esprit Orchestra, Kingston Symphony, Symphony New-Brunswick, and Toronto Symphony Orchestra... Read More →
avatar for Sanya Eng

Sanya Eng

PhoeNX Ensemble
Sanya Eng is one of Canada’s most sought-after harpists, equally celebrated as a soloist, chamber, and orchestral musician. She has been described as “an outstanding musical talent” by the Jerusalem Post; “remarkably polished” by the Globe and Mail, Toronto, and “dazzling... Read More →
avatar for Ryan Scott

Ryan Scott

Percussion, PhoeNX Ensemble
Canadian percussionist Dr. Ryan Scott has been hailed as “Fierce and delicate…a chameleon-like virtuoso who triumphs over the varied colouristic demands and technical challenges” (Gramophone). Ryan has performed in over 400 world premieres, appears regularly as a guest artist... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 14:00 - 15:30 EDT
Grand Ballroom Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel
  Performance, Chamber Music

15:00 EDT

Alexander Rider: Divertissement à la roumaine
Thursday July 30, 2026 15:00 - 15:50 EDT
Willow East
A lecture performance that documents the contribution of Romanian harpists to the French repertoire of the 20th century.
Presenters
avatar for Alexander Rider

Alexander Rider

Alexander Rider freelances with major UK ensembles including the BBC Symphony, the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, the Royal Opera and Ballet Orchestra; the City of Birmingham Symphony, Brighton Philharmonic, Gabrieli Consort, and the Academy of Ancient Music. Passionate about French... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 15:00 - 15:50 EDT
Willow East
  Lecture, Lecture Recital, History & Practice

15:10 EDT

From Italy to Hollywood: a 20th Century Harp Legacy Part I
Thursday July 30, 2026 15:10 - 15:50 EDT
Willow
Part 1: Origins of Repertoire: Clelia Gatti Aldrovandi, one of the leading virtuosi of the harp
Presenters
avatar for Patrizia Tassini

Patrizia Tassini

Patrizia Tassini studied harp in Trieste. Italy, in France, and in the USA at the Eastman School of Music. She received the 2nd Prize at the 8th International Harp Contest in Israel and the USA Concerto Competition. She has been a member of the jury for numerous international harp... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 15:10 - 15:50 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre
  Lecture, History & Practice

15:15 EDT

Two by Two: Harp Duos Chiaroscuro & Arc de Temps
Thursday July 30, 2026 15:15 - 16:15 EDT
Birchwood Ballroom

Chiaroscuro: A Dialogue of Contrasts. Exploring contrast through Schubert’s lyrical Romanticism and the vibrant rhythms of contemporary music, blending tradition and innovation in expressive synergy.

Harpduo Arc du temps:  Erik Groenestein-Hendriks & Viktor Hartobanu. César Franck's mind crossed borders from Baroque to Belle Époque, from organ to orchestra. This program transfers his search for beauty onto two harps.
Presenters
avatar for Isabella Cambini

Isabella Cambini

Isabella Cambini began her harp studies with Simona Marchesi. Isabella is the recipient of multiple awards in International competitions and a scholarship recipient from the Bracco and Brusoni foundations, providing performance opportunities on an international stage.
Isabelle graduated from the Civic School of Music Claudio Abbado in Milan, under the guidance of Irina Zingg. Isabelle is currently performing with the Oslo Philharmonic orchestra and the Oslo Opera while continuing her master’s degree at the Norwegian Academy of Music, Oslo... Read More →
avatar for Zoja Đorđević

Zoja Đorđević

Chiaroscuro Duo
Zoja Đorđević began playing the harp at the age of nine in her native Belgrade. She completed the Bachelor of Music degree in Music Performance at the Norwegian Academy of Music, studying with Professor Isabelle Perrin. Zoja has been deeply engaged in collaborative projects and... Read More →
avatar for Erik Groenestein-Hendriks

Erik Groenestein-Hendriks

Arc de temps
Erik Groenestein-Hendriks has been principal harpist of the Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra since 2013 and was previously solo harpist of the Orquesta Filarmónica de Santiago (2007–2010). He has performed with renowned conductors including Haitink, Dudamel, Blomstedt, and Gardiner... Read More →
avatar for Viktor Hartobanu

Viktor Hartobanu

Viktor first studied the piano and harp with his mother, and completed his Master’s studies in harp with Florence Sitruk and Jana Boušková. Viktor was a member of the Orchestra Academy of the Staatskapelle Berlin. He began teaching in 2017 as harp professor at the Stella Vorarlberg... Read More →
Ensembles
avatar for Arc de Temps

Arc de Temps

Arc de Temps is a harp duo born from a shared passion for historical harps. Viktor Hartobanu & Erik Groenestein-Hendriks met during a Ring project with their Erard instruments. Their Toronto program explores César Franck's boundless musical mind—bridging Baroque grace and Belle... Read More →
avatar for Chiaroscuro Duo

Chiaroscuro Duo

Chiaroscuro is a harp duo formed in 2022 by Isabella Cambini and Zoja Đorđević at the Norwegian Academy of Music. Their playing spans from classical to contemporary repertoire, with a shared musical sensitivity and a strong chamber connection. Mentored by Isabelle Perrin, they’ve... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 15:15 - 16:15 EDT
Birchwood Ballroom
  Performance, Harp Duos

15:30 EDT

Strings and Beyond: a Celebration of Young Harpists-Artists
Thursday July 30, 2026 15:30 - 16:30 EDT
Grand East
In a world where tradition meets innovation, a new generation of performers: creators, dreamers, and storytellers, is quietly reweaving the fabric of classical music. Their time to be heard is now. Rosie Murphy, Paidir chiúin a rá (2024) (Ireland), Maximilian Treller, suite for harp nr1 (Germany), Nadja Floder, Longing for Eternity, opus 22 (2022) (Austria), Charisma Chow (Canada), Eileen C.K. Shafer, Fly Trap & MicroBiome (USA), Almos Tallos, Sonate for harp, opus 6 (Hungary) (his participation is still pending)
Presenters
avatar for Ernestine Stoop

Ernestine Stoop

Ernestine Stoop studied with Edward Witsenburg in Amsterdam. She then studied for two years with the legendary harpist Pierre Jamet. She is harp-professor at the Royal College of Music in the Hague. She initiated the 3rd and 5th European Harp Symposia (1995 and 2001) in Amsterdam... Read More →
avatar for Veronika Lemishenko

Veronika Lemishenko

Veronika Lemishenko is a distinguished Ukrainian harpist with an international career as principal harpist of the Croatian National Theater in Osijek, visiting artist at the Royal Birmingham Conservatory, artistic director of the “Glowing Harp" competition and festival.nnVeronika... Read More →
avatar for Natasha Burns

Natasha Burns

Natasha Burns is an award-winning composer and musician based in Scotland. Her work ranges from classical repertoire to contemporary multidisciplinary approaches. She studies with Eleanor Turner, and is an alumna of Sound and Music and the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. Recognition... Read More →
avatar for Rosie Murphy

Rosie Murphy

Rosie Murphy is a harpist and composer, graduating from The Royal Conservatoire The Hague, under Ernestine Stoop and Live Electronic Music at the Institute of Sonology. She is the BBC-ACNI Young Musician Platform Awardee and a Britten-Pears Young Artist for Composition and Performance. Establishin... Read More →
avatar for Eileen C.K. Shafer

Eileen C.K. Shafer

Eileen C.K. Shafer (b. 2002) is an internationally recognized harpist composer from the United States of America with a passion for writing gratifying and accessible pieces for all harpists. From stage to screen, she regularly promotes the harp’s acoustic versatility which is reflected in her growing... Read More →
avatar for Maximilian Robin Treller

Maximilian Robin Treller

Maximilian Robin Treller (*2003, Germany) is a harpist, composer, and improviser working at the intersection of contemporary music and improvisation. He studies harp at the Lübeck University of Music with Gesine Dreyer. Since 2020, Treller has been composing original works and developing... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 15:30 - 16:30 EDT
Grand East
  Performance, Solo Harp

16:00 EDT

The Érard Family
Thursday July 30, 2026 16:00 - 16:45 EDT
Willow East
A new edition of the first published research on the Érard harp production (including Pleyel and L&H harps) based on original documents and instruments
Presenters
avatar for Giuliano Marco Mattioli

Giuliano Marco Mattioli

After two Harp Diplomas in just six years of study in 2005 and 2007, Giuliano Marco Mattioli delved into historical performance practice with Mara Galassi. He won several competitions and collaborated with various orchestras, including LaVerdi, Concerto Köln, Dresdner Festspielorchester... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 16:00 - 16:45 EDT
Willow East
  Lecture, Lecture Recital, History & Practice

16:10 EDT

From Italy to Hollywood: a 20th Century Harp Legacy Part 2
Thursday July 30, 2026 16:10 - 16:30 EDT
Willow
Between Two Worlds: Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco’s Works for Harp. Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco's artistic journey presented through the lens of his harp compositions, including the 1937 Concertino commissioned by Gatti-Aldrovandi and other collaborations with leading harpists
Presenters
avatar for Diana Castelnuovo-Tedesco

Diana Castelnuovo-Tedesco

Diana oversees the musical legacy of her grandfather, composer Mario Castelnuovo-Tedesco. Diana studied Art History and Italian at Smith College before settling in New York, where she worked in international communications. Since 2017 she has focused on making her grandfather’s... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 16:10 - 16:30 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre
  Lecture, History & Practice

16:30 EDT

Resonating Within: Awakening the Psyche and Spirit Through the Harp
Thursday July 30, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 EDT
Birchwood Ballroom
Using the principles of Helen Bonny’s Guided Imagery in Music, this workshop explores how harpists can shape performance programs to deepen listening, enhance narrative flow, and connect to meaningful human experiences.
Presenters
avatar for Jeremy Chesman

Jeremy Chesman

Jeremy Chesman is Professor of Music at Missouri State University, where he teaches harp and maintains a small Suzuki pre-college studio. He studied with Lynne Aspnes and Alice Chalifoux and performs regularly with the Springfield Symphony and Ozarks Lyric Opera. Also a Speech-Language... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 16:30 - 17:20 EDT
Birchwood Ballroom
  Lecture, Lecture Recital

16:30 EDT

A Susann McDonald Soirée
Thursday July 30, 2026 16:30 - 18:00 EDT
Osgoode West
An informal celebration and gathering for friends and students of Susann McDonald. Open to all, to share music and memories. 

Thursday July 30, 2026 16:30 - 18:00 EDT
Osgoode West
  Participatory Workshop, Solo Harp

16:45 EDT

Building the Next Generation: Harp Ensembles as Training Grounds for Musicianship, Leadership, and Community
Thursday July 30, 2026 16:45 - 17:45 EDT
Grand East
This panel brings together leading directors of youth and pre-college harp ensembles from around the world with diverse perspectives on institutional models, to explore how how the ensemble experience influences learning, mentorship, and artistic aspiration, and the essential role the ensemble experience plays in shaping not only musicianship, but confidence, leadership, creativity, and belonging.

Moderators
avatar for Kristal Schwartz

Kristal Schwartz

Kristal Schwartz is a San Francisco Bay Area harpist with a Master’s Degree in Performance with honors from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Kristal is the founder of the Bay Area Harp Academy and the Bay Area Harp Foundation, and director of its youth ensemble, which has... Read More →
Presenters
avatar for Jennifer Betzer

Jennifer Betzer

Jennifer Betzer is Instructor for the Urban Youth (Atlanta, GA) Harp Ensemble, and on the faculty of Oglethorpe University. She holds the Doctor of Musical Arts degree in harp from the University of North Texas, where her dissertation was on 20th Century harpist Dorothy Ashby. Jennifer... Read More →
avatar for Rosanna Chiu

Rosanna Chiu

American Harp Society
Rosanna Chiu is a performer and teacher based in Vancouver, Canada. She is harp faculty and ensemble director at the Vancouver Academy of Music and leads student harp ensembles at different ages and levels. She enjoys writing harp arrangements, and her ensembles often play works by... Read More →
avatar for Maurice Draughn

Maurice Draughn

Maurice Draughn is currently a freelance harpist performing with several orchestras throughout Southeastern Michigan and Western Ontario. As an arranger and composer specializing in music for harp and chorus, Maurice regularly receives commissions further expanding the harp canon... Read More →
avatar for Gustavo Jimenez Pereira

Gustavo Jimenez Pereira

Gustavo Jimenez Pereira is a Brazilian harp teacher and researcher who recently completed his PhD in Music Education at Western University. His work focuses on harp pedagogy, social justice in music education, and expanding access to harp instruction. He has taught at universities... Read More →
avatar for Vincent Pierce

Vincent Pierce

Dr. Vincent Pierce is a co-owner and founder of California Harp Center, a premier harp showroom in Hayward, California. He previously taught in the Ector County and Round Rock ISD public school harp programs and at The University of Texas of the Permian Basin and Odessa College... Read More →
avatar for Katryna Tan

Katryna Tan

Katryna Tan is an award-winning harpist, educator, and arts leader based in Singapore and Malaysia. Recipient of Singapore’s Young Artist Award (2005) and Malaysia’s STM title, she holds a Master of Music in Harp Performance from the University of Michigan. Founder... Read More →
avatar for Guan Wang

Guan Wang

Mrs. Guan Wang is a professor and doctoral supervisor of harp at the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing China, as well as the deputy director of the Teaching and Research Office for Percussion, Harp,and Guitar. She is a member of the Board of the World Harp Congress. Her outstanding... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 16:45 - 17:45 EDT
Grand East
  Lecture, Panel Discussion

17:10 EDT

Syzygy: My Journey as a Percussive Harpist
Thursday July 30, 2026 17:10 - 18:00 EDT
Willow East
A story about Amy’s journey, exploring the harp's potential as a modern percussive instrument through pop covers and original compositions.
Presenters
avatar for Amy Turk

Amy Turk

Amy Turk is a multi-genre harpist, arranger, composer, educator and session artist from the UK. With special interests in percussion, video game music, film music and popular music of all styles, Amy has created a unique career path through her presence online, pioneering compositions... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 17:10 - 18:00 EDT
Willow East
  Lecture, Lecture Recital

17:15 EDT

Maud and Music: A Lecture Recital on Lucy Maud Montgomery and the Sound of Anne 🍁
Thursday July 30, 2026 17:15 - 18:00 EDT
Willow
An illuminating refection on L.M. Montgomery’s musical legacy, featuring the world premiere of the only authorized harp arrangement of Hagood Hardy’s “Anne’s Theme.”
Presenters
avatar for Anastasia Pike

Anastasia Pike

Anastasia Pike is a harpist, educator, and arts leader whose work spans performance, scholarship, and administration. She teaches at Teachers College, Columbia University, and is Founder/Director of the Hampton Roads Harp Festival and HRHF Summer Institute. An active performer and... Read More →
avatar for Grace Chesnut-Pike

Grace Chesnut-Pike

Grace Chesnut-Pike is an American multi-instrumentalist on violin, piano, and harp. Her performance credits include the White House; the World Harp Congress in Cardiff; the In and Out Club in London; public television; and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. She has also... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 17:15 - 18:00 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre
  Lecture, Lecture Recital

19:15 EDT

China FAEF Harp Committee harp ensemble
Thursday July 30, 2026 19:15 - 19:45 EDT
Grand Ballroom Lobby
Founded as China's first and only provincial-level academic harp organization, the FAEF Harp Committee combines artistic and educational missions to promote harp knowledge and culture in China. The vision of the FAEF Harp Committee is to share the harp culture of China with the world, to
unite a new generation of Chinese harpists, foster cultural exchange with students globally and, through this dialogue, contribute to a richer and more diverse understanding of the harp for all.

Program
  • The Dance of Zhang 
  • Jasmine Flower
  • Pastoral Song 
  • Alamuhan
Presenters
avatar for Gao Lanyan

Gao Lanyan

Ms. Gao Lanyan currently serves as the Secretary-General and Executive Vice Chairperson of the Harp Professional Committee of the Fujian Vocational Education Society for Arts. She is also the Artistic Director of the Cross-Strait Harp Competition (National Caiyi Cup) and the Chief... Read More →
Ensembles
avatar for China FAEF Harp Committee

China FAEF Harp Committee

Phil Young (Yang Zhihua) is a Chinese-American composer and educator, celebrated for his unique fusion of Eastern musical heritage with Western compositional techniques. A graduate of the Central Conservatory of Music, his extensive catalog spans symphonic works, chamber music, and... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 19:15 - 19:45 EDT
Grand Ballroom Lobby
  Performance, Harp Ensemble

20:00 EDT

Something Special This Way Comes
Thursday July 30, 2026 20:00 - 21:00 EDT
Willow

Music by R. Murray Shafer and Claude Debussy
Presenters
avatar for Phoebe Powell

Phoebe Powell

Canadian harpist Phoebe Powell has been Principal Harpist of the Sarasota Orchestra since 2023, previously holding the same position with the New World Symphony (2020–2023). She has performed with the Chicago, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Atlanta, and Toronto Symphony Orchestras, and appears regularly at the Sun V... Read More →
avatar for Kaili Maimets

Kaili Maimets

Flute, Topaz Duo
Canadian flutist Kaili Maimets is in demand as an orchestral performer, chamber musician, and soloist. She regularly performs with the National Arts Centre Orchestra of Canada (NACO) and has held positions as Second Flute & Piccolo of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony (2016-2018), and... Read More →
avatar for Angela Schwarzkopf

Angela Schwarzkopf

Angela Schwarzkopf concertizes throughout North America as soloist, chamber, and orchestral musician. She is the guest principal harpist of the National Arts Centre Orchestra, Ottawa, and principal harpist with the London, Ontario, Symphonia. Angela is the first harpist to earn the... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 20:00 - 21:00 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre

20:00 EDT

Something Special This Way Comes 🍁
Thursday July 30, 2026 20:00 - 22:00 EDT
Grand Ballroom
Watch this space for an evening celebration of extraordinary musicianship, and a lifetime of dedicated partnerships that changed the landscape of contemporary music for the harp!
Moderators
avatar for Tom Allen
Presenters
avatar for Julia Seager-Scott

Julia Seager-Scott

Born and raised in Toronto, Julia Seager-Scott has had the privilege of leading a multi-harp, multi-genre freelance career. Starting at age 8 on the lever harp, Julia switched to concert grand pedal harp at age 12, studying with Judy Loman. Now in her 50s Julia also plays baroque... Read More →
avatar for Alanna Ellison

Alanna Ellison

Ontario Harp Society
Alanna Ellison is a versatile harpist recognized for expressive, sensitive performances across Canada. She studied with Judy Loman at the University of Toronto and Jennifer Swartz at McGill University, following early mentorship from Sharlene Wallace and Marie Lorcini... Read More →
avatar for Lori Gemmell

Lori Gemmell

Lori Gemmel is principal harpist with the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony and teaches at Wilfrid Laurier University and the National Youth Orchestra of Canada. She tours Canada with her husband Tom Allen, presenting Chamber Musicals they create together combining music, history and storytelling... Read More →
avatar for Heidi Krutzen

Heidi Krutzen

Heidi Krutzen is Principal Harp of the Philharmonia Orchestra, performing and touring internationally. She serves as guest principal harp with the Academy of St Martin in the Fields and the Chamber Orchestra of Europe. With COULOIR and Trio Verlaine, she tours widely, records extensively... Read More →
avatar for Amahl Arulanandam

Amahl Arulanandam

Cello, Venuti String Quartet

Amahl Arulanandam is a versatile cellist equally at home in baroque and metal. Performs with Soundstreams, Esprit Orchestra, and New Music Concerts, and is a founding member of VC2 Cello Duo.  Amahl is a specialist in extended technique and new music.
avatar for Drew Jurecka

Drew Jurecka

Violin, Venuti String Quartet
Originally trained as a classical violinist, Drew Jurecka earned his degree at the Cleveland Institute of Music before returning to Toronto to play with the legendary guitarist Jeff Healey.  A musician of extraordinary range, Drew Jurecka has won a Grammy award as a producer, records... Read More →
avatar for Rebekah Wolkstein

Rebekah Wolkstein

Violin, Venuti String Quartet
Rebekah Wolkstein is a passionate chamber musician and a multi-award winning creative force in the Canadian music scene — a violinist, vocalist, songwriter, and composer. She serves as first violinist of the Venuti String Quartet, and has performed with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra... Read More →
avatar for Phoebe Powell

Phoebe Powell

Canadian harpist Phoebe Powell has been Principal Harpist of the Sarasota Orchestra since 2023, previously holding the same position with the New World Symphony (2020–2023). She has performed with the Chicago, Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Atlanta, and Toronto Symphony Orchestras, and appears regularly at the Sun V... Read More →
avatar for Angela Schwarzkopf

Angela Schwarzkopf

Angela Schwarzkopf concertizes throughout North America as soloist, chamber, and orchestral musician. She is the guest principal harpist of the National Arts Centre Orchestra, Ottawa, and principal harpist with the London, Ontario, Symphonia. Angela is the first harpist to earn the... Read More →
avatar for Kaili Maimets

Kaili Maimets

Flute, Topaz Duo
Canadian flutist Kaili Maimets is in demand as an orchestral performer, chamber musician, and soloist. She regularly performs with the National Arts Centre Orchestra of Canada (NACO) and has held positions as Second Flute & Piccolo of the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony (2016-2018), and... Read More →
avatar for Julie Umbrico

Julie Umbrico

Julie Umbrico
Julie Umbrico began lessons with her mother, harpist Judy Loman‚ and continued with Alice Chalifoux at the Salzedo Harp School, and Marilyn Costello at the Curtis Institute of Music. Julie has performed as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player in ensembles across Canada including the O... Read More →
avatar for Sharlene Wallace

Sharlene Wallace

Sharlene Wallace is a Canadian lever and pedal harpist, composer, educator and visual explorer. Winner of two international lever harp competitions, she has given concerts and workshops across Canada, the United States and Europe. Sharlene has released nine albums, including two electronic... Read More →
avatar for Hope Wilk

Hope Wilk

Originally from New York; Hope Wilk has performed with The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the Syracuse Symphony, and the Chautauqua Symphony. She participated in the Rockport Chamber Music Festival, the Bowdoin International Music Festival... Read More →
avatar for Charlene Chin

Charlene Chin

Seattle native, Charlene Chin currently serves as the Principal Harpist for the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra. She began her Canadian journey studying at the Glenn Gould School of Music with acclaimed harpist, Judy Loman and Heidi Bearcroft. Her studies continued at the Indiana University... Read More →
avatar for Clara Wang

Clara Wang

Praised as a "beautiful artist with unlimited potential" (Yolanda Kondonassis), Clara Wang serves as the Principal Harp of the National Ballet of Canada. Clara can also be seen performing with numerous groups around Toronto, including the Canadian Opera Company and Toronto Symphony... Read More →
Ensembles
avatar for Topaz Duo

Topaz Duo

Angela Schwarkopf and Kaili Maimets first performed together in 2008. They officially formed their duo in 2010 and have been performing throughout Ontario ever since. Kaili and Angela bring a commitment to a high, professional level of musical interpretation, and a varied repertoire... Read More →
avatar for Venuti String Quartet

Venuti String Quartet

“Captivating… Breathtaking tour de force… plays with joie de vivre!” raves The WholeNote. The Venuti String Quartet brings together four of Toronto’s most sought-after musicians, performing regularly with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, Canadian Opera Company, National... Read More →
Thursday July 30, 2026 20:00 - 22:00 EDT
Grand Ballroom Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel
  Concert
 

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