One Harp World: Full Schedule

09:00 EDT

Susann McDonald: The Virtuoso Harpist

Wednesday July 29, 2026 09:00 - 09:45 EDT

Grand East

Perspectives on Susann McDonald's influential performing and recording career.

Moderators

Isabel Moreton

Editor, World Harp Congress Review

Isabel Moretón studied harp at the internationally renown Schools of Music of Hanover (Germany) and Bloomington (Indiana University, USA).. She works as a professional harpist in Hanover, Germany, giving regular solo and chamber concerts and concerts for harp and orchestra, nationwide... Read More →

Presenters

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 →

Cliona Doris

Tu Dublin Conservatoire

Clíona Doris is a Professor at TU Dublin Conservatoire where she lectures in harp, performance studies, and artistic research. She is a member of Ireland’s National Concert Hall Board and the WHC Board of Directors and Corporation. She was the Host Committee Chair when Ireland... Read More →

Elizabeth Hainen

Hailed by the Washington Post for her “unusual presence with silky transparency,” Elizabeth Hainen has thrilled audiences throughout the world as a virtuoso soloist and as Principal Harp of The Philadelphia Orchestra. Hainen is the Artistic Director for the USA International Harp... Read More →

Şirin Pancaroğlu

The Turkish Harp

Praised by the Washington Post as a “major talent of international caliber”, Şirin Pancaroğlu is equallyactive in traditional Turkish music, improvisation and contemporary music, as she is in mainstreamharp. With concerts in over 35 countries and 14 recording releases, she... Read More →

Isabelle Perrin

Isabelle Perrin, former co-principal harpist with the Orchestre National de France, has performed recitals and concertos worldwide and recorded numerous CDs. A devoted teacher, she conducts masterclasses globally. Currently, she is a Professor at the Norwegian Academy of Music and... Read More →

Dan Yu

Dan Yu received the USA International Harp Competition Gold Medal in 2001, and was hailed by New York critics as “in a class of her own” following her debut recital in Alice Tully Hall in 2002. She has performed on broadcast television and radio stations in the USA, China, and... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 09:00 - 09:45 EDT
Grand East

Lecture, Panel Discussion

09:00 EDT

The Musical World of Swedish Romantic Harp Vituoso and Composer Anton Edvard Pratté.

Wednesday July 29, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 EDT

Willow

A lecture-recital exploring the musical influences of newly-rediscovered bohemian/Swedish harp virtuoso and composer Anton Edvard Pratté (1796-1875), aka ”The Harp King of the North”.

Presenters

Delphine Constantin-Reznik

French harpist Delphine Constantin-Reznik’s discography as a soloist includes internationally acclaimed albums, notably the first historical recordings of A.E.Pratté’s music, and commissioned concertos. She regularly performs as a soloist with many European orchestras and plays... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre

Lecture, Lecture Recital, History & Practice

10:00 EDT

Melina van Leeuwen: Carlos Salzedo’s theory of “New Harpism" presented by Katia Mestrovic

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:00 - 10:40 EDT

St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church

Katia Mestrovic will deliver colleague Melina van Leeuwen's dissertation on Carlos Salzedo’s compositional theory of “New harpism.” The end result of his “complete renovation of the harp”, new harpism is the undiscovered key to understanding Salzedo’s entire oeuvre. The pre-concert lecture will include a discussion of Salzedo's works featured in Alice Giles' 11:00 solo recital.

Presenters

katia mestrovic

Katia hopes to show audiences the versatility and power of the harp - through performing modern classical repertoire, her own compositions, commissions and arrangements. She was mentored in Sydney (Australia) by virtuoso Alice Giles AM. Some accolades include, performing as a Semifinalist... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:00 - 10:40 EDT
St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church 73 Simcoe St, Toronto, ON M5J 1W9, Canada

Lecture, History & Practice

10:15 EDT

Resonanties: A Composer’s Accessible Approach to Writing for Harp 🍁

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:15 - 11:00 EDT

Birchwood Ballroom

A lecture-performance featuring Edward Top’s Resonanties and the Student Harp Ensemble of the Vancouver Academy of Music, showcasing accessible harp ensemble writing and collaborative composition. www.edwardtop.com/orchestra/six-pieces-for-harp-ensemble

Presenters

Edward Top

Dutch-Canadian composer Edward Top is Associate Professor & Division Chair of Composition at the Vancouver Academy of Music and Sessional Lecturer at the University of British Columbia. As its current mentor composer, Edward maintains a close relationship with the Vancouver Symphony... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:15 - 11:00 EDT
Birchwood Ballroom

Lecture, Harp Ensemble, Composition

10:15 EDT

The Growth of a Harp Centred Community of Practise 🍁

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:15 - 11:00 EDT

Willow East

How the Huron Harp School has built an inclusive and thriving community for harp learners of all levels through group practices and performances.

Presenters

Sharon Johnston

Huron Harp School

Sharon Johnston is a well-established musician in midwestern Ontario, performing frequently on harp and piano. She runs a busy studio in Goderich, where she directs the Huron Harp School, which has over 35 members. She is a composer, arranger, and recording artist, the most recent... Read More →

Elysha Vorstenbosch

Huron Harp School, AHS Young Composers Project

Elysha Vorstenbosch is a harp player, composer, and improviser living in Perth County, Ontario. She has a Bachelor of Music degree from Wilfrid Laurier University where she studied lever harp, composition, and improvisation. Elysha performs frequently as a soloist all around Southern... Read More →

Margot Sippel

Huron Harp School

Margot Sippel is a Jungian Psychotherapist in private practice and works with clients across the globe. She is a Professor Emeritus having taught for decades, and started harp lessons despite not being able to read music and wearing two hearing aids. Now, profoundly deaf and with... Read More →

Ensembles

Huron Harp School

Huron Harp School is based in Goderich, ON under the direction of Sharon Johnston. Established in 2006, the harp school offers private and group lessons and has nurtured a vibrant harp community in Huron County. All students regardless of musical experience gather to make music together... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:15 - 11:00 EDT
Willow East

Lecture, Lecture Recital, Pedagogy

10:30 EDT

Inspiring Inclusivity, Connectivity, and Creativity through International Organizations – a Presentation-Panel

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:30 - 11:30 EDT

Willow

Ann Yeung and Isabel Moretón Achsel (past and current Editors of the World Harp Congress Review) moderate a presentation-panel to highlight the histories and importance of international harp organizations in nurturing the international harp community, culminating in the 2026 One Harp World event in Toronto.

Moderators

Isabel Moreton

Editor, World Harp Congress Review

Ann Yeung

Ann Yeung has premiered numerous compositions and is the author of articles published worldwide, particularly on the works of Henriette Renié. She is a Past President of the American Harp Society and former Editor of the World Harp Congress Review. Ann is Professor of Harp and Chair of the Strings Area at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Her students are international and national competition prize winners, and leaders in secondary school music education, arts administration and entrepreneurial leadership, post sec... Read More →

Presenters

Mario Falcao

Portugal native Mario Falcao is Professor Emeritus of the State University of New York at Fredonia and Visiting Professor at the Escola Superior de Musica de Lisboa, Portugal. Mr. Falcao’s collaborations with composers over multiple decades has resulted in numerous solo, chamber... Read More →

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 →

Anabel Gutierrez Orraca

Cuban Harp Music Inc

Anabel Guitérrez Orraca founded the Asociación Latinoamericana del Arpa in 2021, to expand access to education for harpists across Latin America. She holds advanced degrees from McGill University in Montreal; the Bachelor of Music degree in Music Performance from the Indiana University... Read More →

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 →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 10:30 - 11:30 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre

Lecture, Panel Discussion

14:00 EDT

Fantasising Chromatically from J.S. Bach to New Music: A lecture-Recital by Anne-Marie O'Farrell with performance by Emmanuel Ceysson of O'Farrell's Murmuration

Wednesday July 29, 2026 14:00 - 14:45 EDT

Willow

The wide tonal and timbral range of both pedal and lever harps are showcased in two contrasting works, J.S. Bach's Chromatic Fantasy alongside O'Farrell's new composition, 'Murmuration' for pedal harp, composed especially for Emmanuel Ceysson. This lecture-recital illustrates methods of achieving the range of chromatic colour made available using two completely different mechanisms and compositional methods, including transcription approaches for chromaticism on lever harp.

Presenters

Anne-Marie O’Farrell

RNCM

Leading international harpist, Dr Anne-Marie O’Farrell is recognized for her innovations on lever harp, demonstrated in her substantial output of publications and recordings. She has been commissioned to compose several large-scale works featuring the harp. Her compositions... Read More →

Emmanuel Ceysson

Laphil

Emmanuel Ceysson is Principal Harp of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and former Principal Harp with the New York Metropolitan Opera and the Paris Opera. He is Associate Artistic Director of the USA International Harp Competition, where he was awarded the Gold Medal in 2004. He received... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 14:00 - 14:45 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre

Lecture, Lecture

14:00 EDT

Arranging, Adapting, and Transcribing: a masterful exploration

Wednesday July 29, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 EDT

Grand East

An interactive exploration of the nuances of adapting, arranging, and transcribing for the harp, through an analysis of contrasting approaches to the Recuerdos de la Alhambra by Francisco Tárrega.

Presenters

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 →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 EDT
Grand East

Lecture, Lecture Recital

14:00 EDT

Exploring the Wonders of Bill Marx's Concerto for Two Harps and Orchestra

Wednesday July 29, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 EDT

St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church

Bill Marx’s rediscovered double harp concerto, revived by Duo Shockoe, fuses jazz, Hollywood horror, and classical elements—bringing a lost masterpiece to life for modern global audiences.

Presenters

Colleen Thorburn

Dr. Colleen Potter Thorburn performs widely as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral harpist. She is establishing a harp studio at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, Arkansas, where she also teaches music theory. A past winner of the AHS Anne Adams awards, she previously... Read More →

Jaclyn Wappel

Jaclyn Wappel is a multifaceted harp performer, educator, and scholar recognized for her versatile performances and focus on South East and South Asian–inspired music. She holds the Doctor of Arts degree from Ball State University and serves on The American Harp Journal editorial... Read More →

Ensembles

Duo Shockoe

Duo Shockoe features harpists Dr. Colleen Thorburn and Dr. Jaclyn Wappel who share nearly a decade of musical camaraderie since forming in Richmond, Virginia. As Duo Shockoe they have performed extensively across the U.S. East Coast and, as soloists, across four continents, including... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 14:00 - 14:50 EDT
St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church 73 Simcoe St, Toronto, ON M5J 1W9, Canada

Lecture, Lecture Recital

15:00 EDT

Let the harp sing- the art of phrasing

Wednesday July 29, 2026 15:00 - 15:45 EDT

Grand East

Explore fresh ideas for creating a more singing harp line on the harp, including alternative fingerings, enharmonic substitutions and palette of options for articulation with master artist Silke Aichorn. You love to have a singing harp line? I have many ideas, how to change the sonority, to create a more legato line, to show a powerful and not only virtuos presentation- selected examples are shown for some spicification of your next pieces.

Presenters

Silke Aichhorn

"Certainly the most prominent, the most powerful, and also the most entertaining representative of her field..." Silke Aichhorn is known for her colorful sound, her moderated concerts as well as her unconditional desire to present something new and still unknown on the harp. She is... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 15:00 - 15:45 EDT
Grand East

Lecture, Lecture Recital

15:15 EDT

Beneath the Sea of Time, concerto for harp and orchestra by Alice Ping Yee Ho 🍁

Wednesday July 29, 2026 15:15 - 16:00 EDT

St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church

Explore the lyrical writing of Canadian composer Alice Ping Yee Ho's concerto for harp, exploring memory, loss, and renewal, where oceanic soundscapes mirror humanity’s fragile relationship with nature.

Presenters

Teresa Suen-Campbell

Lakehead University

Teresa Suen-Campbell released her concerto album, including concertos by Canadian composers Chan Ka Nin & James W. Campbell, with Sinfonia Toronto/Nurhan Arman, which received critical acclaim and international broadcasting. Teresa has commissioned 5 concertos, 3 solo works, and 2... Read More →

Jialiang Zhu

Piano

Chinese pianist Jialiang Zhu is an educator, performer, concert producer, and researcher. She is a Sessional Lecturer at the University of Toronto and a Chamber Music Faculty at the Royal Conservatory of Music. She has produced and performed in multiple concert series... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 15:15 - 16:00 EDT
St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church 73 Simcoe St, Toronto, ON M5J 1W9, Canada

Lecture, Lecture Recital

15:30 EDT

An Introduction to the Arpa Jarocha and Son Jarocho

Wednesday July 29, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 EDT

Willow

This session provides participants with a comprehensive introduction to the arpa jarocha (Veracruz harp) and its pivotal role in son jarocho, a dynamic Afro-Indigenous-Mestizo musical tradition from southern Veracruz, Mexico. The session will examine the historical evolution, cultural context, and performance methodologies related to the arpa jarocha, focusing on its significance in musical traditions, communal events (fandangos), and poetic improvisation. Participants will get practical experience with the instrument's musical lexicon, study its construction and performance techniques, and examine significant repertoire, including sones such as “La Bamba,” “El Cascabel,” and “La Bruja.” We will analyze the intersection of décima poetry and call-and-response singing with the harp's rhythmic and harmonic foundation in ensemble performance. This workshop is suitable for musicians, educators, folklorists, Latin American music students, and community members interested in decolonial musical practices, oral traditions, and the expressive potential of Mexican regional music. Educational Aims: Participants will comprehend the historical origins and cultural importance of son jarocho and the arpa jarocha. Determine the principal characteristics of son jarocho song structures, rhythmic patterns, and harmonic frameworks. Identify the composition of conventional verses and their function in collective improvisation. Listen, applaud, sing, and participate in instrumental practice to engage in the collaborative elements of Son Jarocho. Workshop Activities: Exhibition of the arpa jarocha method and its tuning Examine the social and political aspects of son jarocho as a dynamic tradition of resistance and cultural validation. The workshop will involve both live and recorded performance excerpts. Directed auditory engagement and lyrical examination of chosen songs Engagement in conventional coro–copla (chorus–verse) frameworks Lever harp, pedal harp, and synthetic rhythm instruments (quijada, pandero, or clapping) are welcome. Technical Specifications: Multiple arpa jarocha, lever, and pedal harp instruments Audio reproduction apparatus Projector for slides or video clips Area designated for collective vocalization or participatory engagements

Presenters

Jillian Risigari-Gai

Jillian Risigari-Gai is a Los Angeles freelance artist. She is currently Principal Harpist & Co-Founder of the Los Angeles Chamber Music Co., a non-profit providing audiences with exceptional and affordable chamber and collaborative arts concerts that inspire and promote our sense... Read More →

Ensembles

Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar

Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar is a recognized and dynamic contemporary Mexican traditional music group. Their work with pop star Camila Cabello during her performance on Tiny Desk of her original song “La Buena Vida" intertwines mariachi with pop and various Latin flavors... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 15:30 - 16:20 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre

Lecture, Lecture Recital

16:30 EDT

Exploring the Music Therapy profession for Harpists

Wednesday July 29, 2026 16:30 - 17:15 EDT

Willow East

Defining Music Therapy credentials and practice within the harp community as a profession, differentiating it from harp therapy training and other therapeutic music practices.

Presenters

Jessica Brizuela

Jessica Brizuela, MT-BC is a harpist, educator, and board-certified music therapist (MT-BC) with additional credentials in Neurological Music Therapy and Hospice & Palliative Care Music Therapy. Through her passions of music and medicine, Jessica linked her education studying: music... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 16:30 - 17:15 EDT
Willow East

Lecture, History & Practice

17:00 EDT

My Life with Jean-Jacques Rousseau: A Musical Love Story

Wednesday July 29, 2026 17:00 - 17:45 EDT

Willow

Speaking from the Harp: How Rousseau's "Minuet" transformed into "Baroque Flamenco", unlocking a world of solo harp works, concertos, chamber music and education.

Presenters

Deborah Henson-Conant

Deborah "DHC" Henson-Conant is a Grammy-nominated composer and electric harpist who performs solo or with symphony on her signature instrument, the CAMAC "DHC" electric lever harp, in performances inspired by jazz, blues, flamenco and storytelling. Her compositions, like the groundbreaking... Read More →

Evelyn Huber

Evelyn Huber earned her Master’s degree in Munich under Professor Helga Storck. Drawn to jazz, she studied in the U.S. with Carrol McLaughlin and Deborah Henson-Conant, earning recognition at the International Jazz Harp Competition in Arizona. She has taught at the University of... Read More →

Wednesday July 29, 2026 17:00 - 17:45 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre

Lecture, Lecture Recital

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

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

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 →

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 →

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

16:45 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

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

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →

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 →

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

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

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 →

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

09:00 EDT

Susann McDonald: Thoughts for Teachers and Students

Friday July 31, 2026 09:00 - 09:45 EDT

Grand East

Perspectives on Susann McDonald's inspirational teaching legacy through generations of harpists and harp teachers.

Moderators

Isabel Moreton

Editor, World Harp Congress Review

Presenters

Nancy Allen

Nancy Allen has enjoyed 50 years as a soloist, 25 years with The New York Philharmonic and over 40 years leading the harp department of The Juilliard School. Her students fill principal harp positions in major symphonies and conservatories across the globe, carrying forward the legacies... Read More →

Jaymee Haefner

International Harp Archives & UNT Harp Beats

Linda Wood Rollo

Linda Wood Rollo has taught on the faculties of Indiana University, San Francisco State University, Dominican College and the Ursuline School of Music and Drama. Her honors include the World Harp Congress Award of Recognition, American Harp Society Lifetime Achievement... Read More →

Elzbieta (Ela) Szmyt

Elzbieta Szmyt is Professor of Music and Chair of the Harp Department at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. A native of Poland, she has given master classes, judged competitions and performed recitals in Europe, Canada, Asia, and the United States. She has been a featured... Read More →

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 →

Naoko Yoshino

London-born Japanese harpist Naoko Yoshino started her solo career after winning First Prize at the Ninth International Harp Contest in Israel, in 1985. Her solo engagements with the world’s top orchestras have included the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, The Philadelphia Orchestra... Read More →

Friday July 31, 2026 09:00 - 09:45 EDT
Grand East

Lecture, Panel Discussion

09:00 EDT

Functional Movement and Instrumental Gesture

Friday July 31, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 EDT

Willow

AMTA- Analysis of instrumental gestures from the perspective of functional movement and biomechanics. Lecture; interactive practical demonstrations with and without harp with auxiliary tools.

Presenters

lisetta rossi

Lisetta Rossi has held lectures, seminars and masterclasses in Europe, China and California. A former Professor at the Milan Conservatory, she was principal harpist in prestigious symphony and opera orchestras. She has performed at international contemporary music festivals, including... Read More →

Friday July 31, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre

Lecture, Health & Wellbeing

10:15 EDT

An Overview of Modern Canadian Music for the Harp 🍁

Friday July 31, 2026 10:15 - 10:50 EDT

Willow

Explore modern Canadian harp music, chronologically delving into the repertoire and what it means to write Canadian music for harp.

Presenters

Kalen Smith

Friday July 31, 2026 10:15 - 10:50 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre

Lecture, Lecture Recital, Canadian Music & Musicians

10:45 EDT

Decoding Spohr: A Journey Through the Newly Published URTEXT Editions

Friday July 31, 2026 10:45 - 11:30 EDT

Grand East

This presentation explores the newly published URTEXT Bärenreiter edition of Spohr’s works, offering fresh insights into his musical language through the lens of historically informed performance. By examining period-specific phrasing, articulation, and expressive detail, we aim to illuminate interpretive possibilities that go beyond the written notes.

Presenters

Masumi Nagasawa

Masumi Nagasawa studied in the Netherlands with Phia Berghout. Masumi is a world-renowned harpist, celebrated for her expressiveness and stylistic mastery. She blends classical and contemporary repertoire with deep insight into 18th and 19th century performance practice. A PhD graduate... Read More →

Friday July 31, 2026 10:45 - 11:30 EDT
Grand East

Lecture, Lecture Recital

11:30 EDT

Everyday Harp Care: Strings and Tuning

Friday July 31, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 EDT

Osgoode West

Strings and Tuning: How to identify strings moving toward falseness and breakage. Mechanics of string movement, dynamics. Mechanics of optimal tuning.

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

Jo Baee

Gabriel Diaz

Peter Wiley

Harp Doctor Llc

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.

Friday July 31, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 EDT
Osgoode West

Lecture

16:30 EDT

Research into the Validity of Therapeutic Harp Music and Opportunities in the Field

Friday July 31, 2026 16:30 - 17:15 EDT

Willow East

In this workshop we will cover the science and research why live therapeutic music is effective and explore training and job opportunities in the field.

Presenters

Barbara Lepke-Sims

USAIHC

Barbara Lepke-Sims is a professional harpist in Denver, CO, after graduating in 1978 from The Juilliard School with her MM under Susann McDonald. Also interested in arts management, Barb earned her MBA in 1986. In 2017 Barbara was awarded the AHS Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2019... Read More →

Friday July 31, 2026 16:30 - 17:15 EDT
Willow East

Lecture, Health & Wellbeing

16:30 EDT

International Transformations 🍁

Friday July 31, 2026 16:30 - 17:30 EDT

Birchwood Ballroom

Italy in Edinburgh (Julia Seager Scott & Alison Melville): In the mid-1600's, Italy was all the rage. Other countries adopted their artistic tastes and this led to some interesting developments, especially in music. We explore this topic with our instruments: harp and wooden flutes and recorders. Listen for some Vivaldi appearing in a Scottish folk tune!

Obras latinoamericanas para arpa (Latin American works for Harp) (Juan Riveros): A showcase program of diverse works highlighting the aesthetics of Alba Quintanilla, Arturo Márquez, Mario Ruiz Armengol, and María Suárez.

Presenters

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 →

Alison Melville

Flute, recorder

Alison Melville’s career as a performer on historical flutes and recorders has taken her across North America, Scandinavia, Europe, Asia and New Zealand. She performs with the Tafelmusik Baroque Orchestra, is a former member of Toronto Consort and Ensemble Polaris, and was Artistic... Read More →

Juan Riveros

Michigan State University

Friday July 31, 2026 16:30 - 17:30 EDT
Birchwood Ballroom

Lecture, Lecture Recital

17:00 EDT

Concept to Concert: Composing for Harp Quartet

Friday July 31, 2026 17:00 - 17:45 EDT

Grand East

Chicago Harp Quartet alongside composers Alfredo Rolando Ortiz and Tristan Coelho demonstrate and discuss the collaborative process of composing, workshopping, and performing new works for harp quartet.

Presenters

Emily Granger

Chicago Harp Quartet

Praised for her “impressive virtuosity and eye-opening versatility" by Limelight Magazine, harpist Emily Granger is Principal Harp with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, on the faculty at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music and a member of Ensemble Q. She has performed as guest Principal Harp with orchestras in Australia and the U.S. She is a graduate of Indiana University's Jacobs School... Read More →

Catherine Litaker

Chicago Harp Quartet

Catherine Yom Litaker is a versatile solo, chamber, and orchestral harpist, serving as Principal Harpist of the San Luis Obispo Symphony. She has performed internationally across Europe, Asia, and the Americas, and with ensembles including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and... Read More →

Alfredo Rolando Ortiz

Alfredo Rolando Ortiz was born in Cuba. His family immigrated to Venezuela,when Alfredo was 11. He studied the Venezuelan folk harp with his Fernando Guerrero, adding studies in the Paraguayan harp with Alberto Romero. Mr. Ortiz performs folk, classical, and popular music from many... Read More →

Ensembles

Chicago Harp Quartet

The Chicago Harp Quartet, described by Harp Column Magazine as “the quartet that put harp quartets on the map,” is the leading harp ensemble in the United States. Founded in 2012, CHQ has performed at major venues including Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, Ravinia Festival... Read More →

Friday July 31, 2026 17:00 - 17:45 EDT
Grand East

Lecture, Composition

09:00 EDT

Echoes of the Çeng: A Postmigrant Dialogue

Saturday August 1, 2026 09:00 - 09:45 EDT

Birchwood Ballroom

Echoes of the Çeng reimagines an ancient West Asian angular harp as a symbol of displacement, weaving voice, field recordings, and tradition into a soundscape of postmigrant identity and belonging.

Presenters

Samira Memarzadeh

Samira Memarzadeh is a harpist, educator, and dramaturg of Persian-German heritage whose work moves fluidly between cultures, generations, and musical worlds. Drawing on traditions from Mongolia, Southwest Asia, and Senegal, she weaves improvisation, microtones, and traditional sounds on concert har... Read More →

Saturday August 1, 2026 09:00 - 09:45 EDT
Birchwood Ballroom

Lecture, Lecture Recital

09:00 EDT

From Concept to Composition - Unlocking New Soundscapes

Saturday August 1, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 EDT

Grand East

How can a harp ensemble be effectively staged musically and what steps are necessary for this? This lecture shows the necessary methodological steps.

Presenters

Willi Maerz

The Munich Harp Quartet sets innovative accents in the field of harp ensembles. It breaks new ground both in its choice of repertoire and in the way it presents it. Thanks to its close collaboration with composer Willi Maerz, one of the few specialists in music for harp ensembles... Read More →

Lara Faria Fonseca

Lara Faria Fonseca began her musical training in 2009, ih her hometown Espinho. She completed her studies with top marks in Freiburg and Munich.
The harpist is very active in the German orchestra scene and has already had the opportunity to play with various orchestras and reknown artists. As a soloist, she is interested in blending different musical styles to demonstrate the diverse possibilities of her ins... Read More →

Alice Proffit

Munich Harp Quartet

Alice Proffit, a French harpist (born 2005), studies at the Munich Musik Hochschule with Prof. Cristina Bianchi since 2023. Prior to that, she studied with Vassilia Briano, Letizia Belmondo, Christophe Truant in Lyon, where she earned her “Diplôme de fin de conservatoire... Read More →

Lauren Schrempp

Lauren Schrempp, born in Livingston, New Jersey, began harp lessons at the age of eight with Karen Lindquist. Since moving to Germany in 2017, she has studied harp performance and music education at the Nuremberg University of Music with Professor Lilo Kraus and Susanne... Read More →

Maria Gamboz

SIH4rps

Slovenian native Maria Gamboz grew up in Tokyo, Japan, where she studied with Sumire Kuwashima. Maria has won several scholarships and international competitions including the Victor Salvi Competition and the TIM, Salon de Provence, France, competition. She released the CD R... Read More →

Tea Plesničar

SIH4rps

Tea Plesničar is a graduate of the Academy of Music in Ljubljana studying with Ruda Ravnik Kosi, and the Royal Conservatory of Brussels studying with Jana Bouškova. Tea is an avid chamber musician and has performed at festivals in Belgium, Portugal, Italy, the Netherlands, and... Read More →

Sofia Ristic

SIH4rps

Since 1996 Sofia Ristic* has been the Principal Harpist of the RTV Slovenia Symphony Orchestra. Her recordings of Handel, Mozart, and Gliere performed with the RTV Slovenia Symphony orchestra are frequently broadcast throughout most major european national radios. Sofia graduated... Read More →

Urška Križnik Zupan

SIH4rps

Urška Križnik Zupan graduated from the Academy of Music of the University of Ljubljana in 2003 and is currently the solo harpist in the Slovenian Philharmonic Orchestra. She performs as a soloist and in various chamber groups including for the Festival Ljubljana, Piran Music... Read More →

Ensembles

Munich Harp Quartet

The Munich Harp Quartet- Lara Faria Fonseca, Veronika Seiler, Alice Proffit, and Lauren Schrempp- first performed in Japan, at the German Pavilion at EXPO in Osaka and at the Ginza Jujiya Hall. All members of the ensemble study at renowned universities in Munich, Nuremberg, and Salzburg... Read More →

SIH4rps, Slovenian Harp Quartet

SIH4rps is a Slovenian harp quartet of concert artists—Urška Križnik Zupan, Maria Gamboz, Sofia Ristic, and Tea
Plesničar—active in major orchestras and conservatories. They have commissioned works from Bec and Naumovski Potisk, a Škerjanc arrangement by Maerz, and pieces by Maria and Tea. Their concerts, many recorded by RTV Slovenia, are heard across Slovenia and Croatia, and they will... Read More →

Saturday August 1, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 EDT
Grand East

Lecture, Composition

09:00 EDT

Young Composers Project: Q & A with Rachel Brandwein, Kevin Lau and Amy Nam

Saturday August 1, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 EDT

Willow

Moderators

Rachel Brandwein

Rachel Brandwein has toured the United States and Asia as a soloist, chamber musician, and concerto soloist. She is on the faculty of St. Olaf College, Northfield, Minnesota, and is the recipient of multiple first prizes in performance competitions as well as receiving grants and... Read More →

Kevin Lau

Composer, AHS Young Composers Project

One of Canada's most sought-after composers, and recipient of the prestigious 2025 Johanna Metcalf Performing Arts Prize, Kevin Lau’s music has been described as “brilliantly idiomatic” (New York Times) and “masterful” (Classical Music Sentinel). He has been commissioned... Read More →

Amy Nam

American harpist and composer Amy Nam uses music to ignite curiosity and express wonder. 2nd Prize Winner of the 2024 Dutch Harp Festival World Harp Competition, she was also named 2025 Guest Composer at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory. Her award-winning music has been featured... Read More →

Presenters

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 →

Aoibheann Galvin

AHS Young Composers Project

Aoibheann Galvin completed a Bachelor of Music Education at Trinity College Dublin in 2023, studying harp with Clíona Doris at TU Dublin Conservatoire. She performs regularly as a harpist, including with the TU Dublin Harp Ensemble. Aoibheann has experience teaching music, including... Read More →

Divya Jayam

AHS Young Composers Project

Divya is an 11th grader from Long Island, New York. She has been playing the harp for the last 4 years. She enjoys composing music just as much as playing the harp. She takes pleasure in performing with Orchestra Long Island (OLI) and is the harpist of her school. Her passion for... Read More →

Ella Lamb

United States, AHS Young Composers Project

Ella Lamb is eight years old, and she began playing harp when she was two years old. She also plays piano and flute. Ella wants to be a professional ballerina and has studied ballet since she was 17 months old. Along with music and ballet, she enjoys building with Legos, playing with... Read More →

Jay Lamb

AHS Young Composers Project

Jay Lamb is eleven years old, and he has been playing music since he was two years old. He plays both harp and piano, and enjoys composing pieces for both instruments. Aside from music, Jay loves building with Legos, reading encyclopedias and other long books, hiking, gardening, and cooking... Read More →

Ellie Lau

AHS Young Composers Project

Ellie is 15 and began playing the harp at age 8 in Hong Kong. After moving to Vancouver,Canada, she now studies with Rosanna Chiu at the Vancouver Academy of Music. Ellie performed as harpist for United Players’“Christmas in Wales” in 2023. She won first place with scholarships... Read More →

Paul Nicolaou

AHS Young Composers Project

“Rapidly emerging as one of Australia’s most exciting young artists” (ABC Classic), Paul Nicolaou is a harpist-composer based in Sydney, Australia. An Honours graduate from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, Paul studied under internationally celebrated harpist Alice Giles... Read More →

Renée Qin

AHS Young Composers Project

Renée Qin is a harpist-composer bridging classical tradition and emerging technologies. She holds a B.A. in Music and Economics from Stanford, an Artist Diploma from OAcademy, and is pursuing a Master’s in Computer Science from Stanford. A 2025 Orchestra of the Americas fellow... Read More →

Elysha Vorstenbosch

Huron Harp School, AHS Young Composers Project

Saturday August 1, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre

Lecture, Panel Discussion

11:30 EDT

Everyday Harp Care: Levers

Saturday August 1, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 EDT

Osgoode West

Levers: Exlploring different types of levers, and the basis of identifying noises. What are the most common fixes?

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

Jo Baee

Gabriel Diaz

Peter Wiley

Harp Doctor Llc

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.

Saturday August 1, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 EDT
Osgoode West

Lecture

09:00 EDT

Forging Your Own Way In Music; Finding the Freedom

Sunday August 2, 2026 09:00 - 09:45 EDT

Willow

Delve into taking risks, sharing vulnerability, expectations, mindset and creative process to unpick what you really want from your journey with music and the harp.

Presenters

Emily Sanzaro

Emily Sanzaro is a Tasmanian harpist, vocalist, violinist and electronic loop artist known for her innovative, genre blending approach. She creates original compositions, bold arrangements and experimental improvisations. Her annual six week solo residencies at MONA—Australia’s... Read More →

Sunday August 2, 2026 09:00 - 09:45 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre

Lecture, Health & Wellbeing

09:00 EDT

Highlights from The Turkish Harp

Sunday August 2, 2026 09:00 - 09:45 EDT

Grand East

Şirin Pancaroğlu performs and lectures on selections from The Turkish Harp Music Collection, featuring six instrumental genres, six makams, seven rhythmic patterns, microtonal tuning, ornamentation, and improvisation.

Presenters

Şirin Pancaroğlu

The Turkish Harp

Sunday August 2, 2026 09:00 - 09:45 EDT
Grand East

Lecture, Lecture Recital

09:00 EDT

In Search of Clarity: a Discussion on Effective Strategies for Harp Notation.

Sunday August 2, 2026 09:00 - 09:45 EDT

Osgoode West

This panel explores conflicting practices and challenges in harp notation, offering strategies from harpist-composers and an expert engraver to improve clarity and communication.

Presenters

Matthew Karas

Matthew Karas is a Toronto-based music engraver and editor specializing in new music and re-engravings of classic works. He has prepared materials for hundreds of composers and organizations, including Boosey & Hawkes, Dunvagen Music Publishers, the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, the... Read More →

Danielle Kuntz

Danielle Kuntz is a harpist and educator whose work centers on contemporary music and harp notation practices. She has mentored numerous composers through workshops, residencies, and individual instruction, and her educational YouTube channel on harp writing is widely used by composers... Read More →

Amy Nam

Elisabeth Plank

The internationally sought-after harpist Elisabeth Plank performs as a soloist & chamber musician in renowned concert halls and festivals around the world and has released four critically acclaimed solo albums. She was "Great Talent" of Wiener Konzerthaus, is a „Next Generation... Read More →

Joseph Rebman

Harpist and composer Joseph Rebman is based in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he directs the harp program for students in grades 4 through 12, at the magnet k-12 School for the Creative and Performing Arts. Rebman is also professor of harp at Northern Kentucky University, principal harpist... Read More →

Sunday August 2, 2026 09:00 - 09:45 EDT
Osgoode West

Lecture, Composition

09:30 EDT

Beyond the Strings: Managing Burnout, Anxiety, and Pressure as a Harpist

Sunday August 2, 2026 09:30 - 10:15 EDT

Willow East

Where brain science and cognitive psychology meet to explain performance pressure and burnout — plus realistic, research-backed practices for sustainable artistry.

Presenters

Kiernan O'Mara

Kiernan O’Mara is a harpist, psychiatry researcher, certified medical assistant, and mental health advocate. She is the founder of Musician Mental Health, offering personalized, one-on-one performance psychology coaching for musicians. Drawing on her background in neuroscience and... Read More →

Sunday August 2, 2026 09:30 - 10:15 EDT
Willow East

Lecture, Health & Wellbeing

10:15 EDT

Harp in Video Games: The Infinite Expansion of the Harp's Canonical Repertoire

Sunday August 2, 2026 10:15 - 10:50 EDT

Willow

Exploring the prominence of harp in video game scores, and potential for game music to contribute to the expansion of the instrument’s core repertoire.

Presenters

Paul Nicolaou

AHS Young Composers Project

Sunday August 2, 2026 10:15 - 10:50 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre

Lecture, Contemporary Styles

11:30 EDT

Everyday Harp Care: Exploding a Harp

Sunday August 2, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 EDT

Osgoode West

Exploding a Harp: Taking one apart to identify parts and materials.

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

Jo Baee

Gabriel Diaz

Peter Wiley

Harp Doctor Llc

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.

Sunday August 2, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 EDT
Osgoode West

Lecture

11:45 EDT

Become a Better Sight reader, Part 2: Jazz Styles, & Beyond

Sunday August 2, 2026 11:45 - 12:30 EDT

Willow

Felice Pomeranz shares resources and processes that support building confident and reliable improvisation skills. Session II includes a brief review of the materials presented in Session 1, Classical and Popular styles.

Presenters

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 →

Sunday August 2, 2026 11:45 - 12:30 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre

Lecture, History & Practice

11:45 EDT

Susann McDonald: The World of the Harp

Sunday August 2, 2026 11:45 - 12:30 EDT

Grand East

Perspectives on Susann McDonald's singular achievements to create community and excellence connecting harpists and audiences through the harp.

Moderators

Isabel Moreton

Editor, World Harp Congress Review

Presenters

Jana Boušková

Jana Boušková is one of the world’s leading harpists, acclaimed for her extraordinary technique, musical depth, and individuality. She is Professor of Harp at the Royal College of Music and the Academy of Performing Arts in Prague, and Principal Harpist of the Czech Philharmonic... Read More →

Kathy Kienzle

Kathy Kienzle studied with Marcel Grandjany at The Juilliard School, and with Susann McDonald. She placed third in the Sixth International Harp Competition in Israel. Kathy was principal harp of the Minnesota Orchestra from 1993-2020, gave the world premiere of Einojuhani Rautavaara’s... Read More →

Mieko Inoue

World Harp Congress

Kaori Ogawa

Harpist Kaori Ogawa graduated from Indiana University, The Juilliard School and The Curtis Institute of Music. She is aboard member of the USAIHC and has served as an adjudicator at several International Harp Competitions. Kaori has won numerous competitions and has given many recitals... Read More →

Alfredo Rolando Ortiz

Ann Yeung

Sunday August 2, 2026 11:45 - 12:30 EDT
Grand East

Lecture, Panel Discussion

14:30 EDT

African American Spirituals for Harp Ensemble

Sunday August 2, 2026 14:30 - 15:00 EDT

Grand East

An exploration of ways to arrange folk music for harp ensembles of all skill levels utilizing a collection of African American spirituals for harp ensemble.

Presenters

Maurice Draughn

Sunday August 2, 2026 14:30 - 15:00 EDT
Grand East

Lecture, Lecture Recital

15:15 EDT

Singing Strings: The Aesthetic and Dramatic Role of the Harp in Rossini

Sunday August 2, 2026 15:15 - 15:45 EDT

Grand East

Why does Rossini entrust the harp with some of the most emotionally charged and poignant moments in his operas?nThis lecture explores the aesthetic, timbral, and dramaturgical functions of the instrument within the Rossinian operatic tradition.

Presenters

Alba Brundo

Fine Arts Academy Of Naples

Alba Brundo is an Italian harpist and PhD candidate in Performing Arts at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Napoli. Her work brings together performance and research, with a focus on the harp’s history, repertoire, and contemporary development. She has premiered new works and collaborates... Read More →

Sunday August 2, 2026 15:15 - 15:45 EDT
Grand East

Lecture, History & Practice

15:15 EDT

Teach to the Top: Pedagogical Insights of Elzbieta Szmyt

Sunday August 2, 2026 15:15 - 16:00 EDT

Willow East

Elzbieta will explore selected pieces and discuss challenges of choosing the right repertoire to enhance learning and help one become a better harpist and musician.

Presenters

Elzbieta (Ela) Szmyt

Sunday August 2, 2026 15:15 - 16:00 EDT
Willow East

Lecture, Lecture Recital, Pedagogy

09:00 EDT

Composing for Harp and Electronics: Creating Symbiosis 🍁

Monday August 3, 2026 09:00 - 09:40 EDT

Willow

Breakdown of original composition by Kalen Smith, Shadow Dances, for harp and electronics, examining its magical symbiosis and performance practice.

Presenters

Kalen Smith

Monday August 3, 2026 09:00 - 09:40 EDT
Willow Willow West + Willow Centre

Lecture, Composition

09:00 EDT

From Naples to Buenos Aires: The Influence of the Italian Harp School in the Development of the Harp in Argentina

Monday August 3, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 EDT

Grand East

This lecture examines how Italian harpists shaped Argentina’s harp tradition (1850–1950), blending Italian operatic aesthetics with Argentine identity through teaching, performance, and composition.

Presenters

MARCELA NORMA MENDEZ

Marcela Méndez is an accomplished Argentinian harpist, pedagogue, and writer. Her career spans performance, education, research, and social initiatives, with a focus on promoting Argentine harp music. She has performed internationally, recorded five albums, and served as Principal... Read More →

Monday August 3, 2026 09:00 - 09:50 EDT
Grand East

Lecture, Lecture

11:30 EDT

Teaching to Empower Music Students with Mental Health Challenges

Monday August 3, 2026 11:30 - 12:15 EDT

Willow East

This session presents four research-based pedagogical and relational approaches for music teachers to support students living with mental health challenges, with specific suggestions for application.

Presenters

Heather Cornelius

Monday August 3, 2026 11:30 - 12:15 EDT
Willow East

Lecture, Health & Wellbeing

11:30 EDT

Everyday Harp Care: Pre-owned Harps, and DIY Fixes

Monday August 3, 2026 11:30 - 12:20 EDT

Osgoode West

Pre-owned Harps, and DIY Fixes: What to look for besides sound? What are the safe actions a harpist can take to fix common problems?

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

Lecture

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