AHS 2024 National Conference: Full Schedule

Stop by Longboat 1 to embark on a journey back in time to meet the early pioneers of jazz and pop on the harp.
Watch a video montage and listen to some of their arrangements. Browse the artifacts there, including LP covers.
(You might even find some LP’s to take home with you amongst the free materials from the Archives in the
Exhibit Hall!) The Conference hallway is lined with posters sharing the stories of these special artists. You will
find similar information in the app, along with links to a collection of related American Harp Journal articles, and
links to more videos and recordings. Everything is also available to view at www.harpsociety.org/jazzharp. This
project was originally conceived for the 2020-2021 Conference and its “That’s Entertainment!” theme by Laura
Sherman and Cheryl Cunningham. Special thanks to both of them, and to Linda-Rose Hembreiker for creating
these beautiful posters, and for bringing these harpists to life for us!

Sunday June 16, 2024 11:30am - 5:00pm EDT
Longboat 1

Exhibits

11:30am EDT

Exhibit Hall Open

Sunday June 16, 2024 11:30am - 6:00pm EDT
Peninsula Ballroom

Exhibits

1:00pm EDT

Concert Artist Recital: Kaitlin Miller

From historic to modern compositions, this is a recital inspired by "storytelling".

Artist/Presenter

Kaitlin Miller

Kaitlin is currently an active musician in the Los Angeles area performing in orchestral, chamber, and solo settings. Her favorite music to perform ranges from romantic French music to the innovative compositions of contemporary artists. In her orchestral pursuits, Kaitlin has performed... Read More →

AHS Concert Artist Program pdf

Sunday June 16, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm EDT
Canaveral Recital Hall

Concert

3:30pm EDT

Welcome Reception

Central Florida Chapter Ensemble performance will feature music from movies and Broadway musicals as well as a medley the Chapter commissioned by Stephanie Curcio, "Break a Leg."
Ensemble members:

Joelle Bell
Carys Brumbaugh
Linda Franklin
Vicki Garcia
Stephen Hill
Jan Jennings
Julian Jones
Kyle Krekeler*
Bailey McLean
Sasha O’Kane
Jackie Ricafort
Elizabeth Seabrooks
Simone Webb
Grace E. Wieckowski
Kaiya Miller Lee

Artist/Presenter

Jan Jennings

Jan Jennings was first prize winner of the Lyon & Healy International Pop & Jazz Harp competition in 1988. She has written two instructional books, The Harpist’s Complete Wedding Guidebook, and Effortless Glissing and has been Music Review Editor for Harp Column since 1993. She... Read More →

Central Florida Chapter Harp Ensemble

The Central Florida Chapter was founded in 1987 by Jan Jennings along with a small group of founding members. Since that time we have presented more than 100 harp events including concerts, workshops, and master classes to benefit harpists and the public. The members are professional... Read More →

Sunday June 16, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm EDT
Peninsula Foyer

Social event

6:00pm EDT

Buses Leave for Dr. Phillips High School

Buses depart at 6:00 pm from the North lot entrance (just beyond Starbucks) of the Renaissance hotel. Buses will leave the concert venue 15 minutes after the concert ends.

Sunday June 16, 2024 6:00pm - 6:15pm EDT
Renaissance Hotel North Lot Entrance

Administration - Operations

7:00pm EDT

Jazz Concert

Fabulous jazz originals and improvisations with three jazz harpists and friends.

Artist/Presenter

Charles Overton

Originally from Richmond, VA, Charles Overton is a Boston-based harpist and improviser.Charles enjoys a career in classical music that includes frequent performances with the Boston Symphony, as well as regular chamber music performances with such organizations as the Orpheus Chamber... Read More →

César Secundino

Harpist, Arranger and Composer

Cesar Secundino was born in Mexico, he has played in important concert halls around the world, and has been winning first prizes at some international harp competitions in: Mexico, Spain, France, Wales, Germany and Netherlands. Noting that he was awarded with the first place and the... Read More →

Scott Marischen

Scott Marischen has been performing professionally in the South Florida area for over 30 years and has written, produced and played his entire career. He manages a full-time event music business, working with professional musicians all over the state of Florida.

Manny Patiño

Manny Patiño, bassist, author, composer and arranger, studied music at Miami-Dade Community College, Universityof Miami, and Florida International University where he received a Bachelors Degree in Music. He has participated as a studio musician in over 40 CD/LP recordings and has... Read More →

Tony Verdejo

A native of Puerto Rico, percussionist Tony Verdejo has performed internationally and had his own Latin group in Miami for many years. He has worked with Tito Puente, recorded with Mongo Santamaria, New Generation Menudo 2023, and many others. He is retired from Broward County Public... Read More →

Mark Rose

Mark Rose was born and raised in front of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and learned piano with his mother. Mark’s band director at Watson High School convinced Mark to learn to play saxophone, starting in the sixth grade. Mark attended the University of Northern... Read More →

An Evening of Jazz Program pdf

Sunday June 16, 2024 7:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Dr. Phillips High School Auditorium

Concert

9:30pm EDT

Post Concert Reception

Classic rock standards by Christine MacPhail and Disney, popular, Broadway, and anime music by Elizabeth Louise.

Artist/Presenter

Elizabeth Louise

Elizabeth Louise began studying music at age six. At nine, she began taking harp lessons with Elizabeth Motter, former harpist with the Cincinnati Symphony. Elizabeth attended Benslow harp camp in England, studied with Alice Spero Keene at the University Of Illinois, and attended... Read More →

Christine MacPhail

Christine first saw a harp at the age of 5 while attending a museum in western Canada. When her father ran his fingers along the strings, it was love at first sound. She began harp lessons with Carrol McLaughlin in Calgary, Alberta.In the late 1980s, Christine moved to Florida and... Read More →

Sunday June 16, 2024 9:30pm - 10:30pm EDT
Peninsula Foyer

Social event

7:00am EDT

Yoga

Begin your day with a dynamic, heart-opening and breath-inspiring flow class. This yoga class will stretch and unwind the body. Leave feeling refreshed, clear, and ready for the day. All levels welcome.

Artist/Presenter

Alix Raspé Gray

Alix Raspé Gray is an award-winning harpist, music educator and a 500-hr Yoga-Alliance certified yoga instructor. Alix teaches harp for Phillips Academy Andover, Boston Youth Symphony Orchestras, and The Groton School. Alix is an Associate Harpist for the Columbus Symphony, former... Read More →

Monday June 17, 2024 7:00am - 7:50am EDT
Peninsula 1

Workshop, Participatory Workshop

7:00am EDT

Harp Pen

Monday June 17, 2024 7:00am - 11:00pm EDT
Longboat 2

Administration - Operations

7:30am EDT

Registration

Monday June 17, 2024 7:30am - 7:00pm EDT
Peninsula Registration Desk

Administration - Operations

8:30am EDT

Approaches to Playing Bach on Lever and Pedal Harps

All Bach all the time! These career devotees address choices, transcriptions, interpretations, and performances of the music of J.S. Bach, on both the lever and pedal harp.

Artist/Presenter

Dr. Anne-Marie O'Farrell

Leading harpist of her generation, Dr Anne-Marie O’Farrell has performed worldwide at international festivals, including several World Harp Congresses. She is particularly recognized for her levering innovations and ground-breaking expansion of harp repertoire. These are documented... Read More →

Dr. Laura Sherman

Harpist, teacher, writer, editor, publisher

Dr. Laura Sherman is a harpist and harp teacher in Miami who also performs with five orchestras in south Florida. Previously a longtime harpist in New York City, she performed in diverse ensembles, toured internationally, and recorded extensively. She specializes in transcribing and... Read More →

Monday June 17, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
Biscayne 1

Workshop

8:30am EDT

Jazz Harmony for the Classically Trained

Have a “love/hate” relationship with Harmony and Etudes? Let’s discover how etudes and harmony shape a delightful portion of our artistic diet.

Artist/Presenter

Felice Pomeranz

Felice Pomeranz is a performer, teacher, entrepreneur, and recording artist. Trained in both classical and jazz harp, she has been Professor of Harp at Berklee College of Music since 2002. Felice is a clinician and performer at festivals worldwide. Herarrangements for harp are widely... Read More →

Monday June 17, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
Biscayne 3

Workshop

8:30am EDT

Performing Venezuelan Music

Explore Venezuelan sounds and rhythms you can use in your own playing, revealed through Venezuelan cuatro, harp, and maracas.

Artist/Presenter

Leonard Jácome

Venezuelan harpist Leonard Jacome is a champion of the South American harp. Mr. Jacome partnered with Camac Harps, France, to create the Venezuelan electric harp, adding a fresh and contemporary identity to the traditions of the South American harp. Mr. Jacome has won numerous awards... Read More →

Monday June 17, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
Biscayne 2

Workshop

8:30am EDT

Master Class: Harp Quartet Arranging

Taking a systematic approach: from first analysis and shortlist to finalizing choices, towards the perfect arrangement.

Artist/Presenter

Willi Maerz

The artistic range of Willi Maerz' works encompasses both quality light music and sophisticated art music. lt includes numerous compositions for smaller ensembles, music for big bands and wind orchestra and up to full symphony orchestra.Willi Maerz began his career in musicatage five... Read More →

HarpBeats

The UNT HarpBeats, directed by Jaymee Haefner, has attracted national attention for its innovative and diverse compositions and arrangements by its members since established in 2006. The ensemble has performed their own arrangements and compositions worldwide, in Hong Kong (Center... Read More →

Jaymee Haefner

Jaymee Haefner, Associate Professor of Harp and Director of Graduate Studies at the UNT College of Music, has performed in Hong Kong, Moscow, Prague, New York City, New Orleans, Atlanta, Mexico, and has adjudicated competitions in Hong Kong, Italy and the US. Oxford University Press... Read More →

Monday June 17, 2024 8:30am - 10:20am EDT
Merritt 1 & 2

Workshop, Participatory Workshop

8:30am EDT

Legacy Exhibit

Monday June 17, 2024 8:30am - 4:00pm EDT
Longboat 1

Exhibits

9:00am EDT

Mock Orchestra Audition

Esteemed orchestral harpists provide feedback to mock audition participants.

Artist/Presenter

Ann Hobson Pilot

After 40 years with the Boston Symphony, harpist Ann Hobson Pilot retired at the end of the 2009 season, returning to the stage as soloist with the BSO both at Symphony Hall and at Carnegie Hall with the premiere of “On Willows and Birches”, concerto for harp, written for her... Read More →

Abigail Kent

Principal Harp Fellow, New World Symphony

Abigail Kent communicates emotions and stories through music, using the harp as a passport to the human heart. As a player of two worlds and genres, they incorporate music and influences from both classical and traditional Celtic music. Additionally, Abigail puts a focus on women... Read More →

Monday June 17, 2024 9:00am - 10:50am EDT
Peninsula 1

Workshop, Participatory Workshop

9:30am EDT

Looping

Get loopy with the experts and leave Orlando with new knowledge and skills for incorporating this electronic skill into your own performance.

This presentation by Ben Creighton Griffiths is made possible thanks to a grant from Wales Arts International and The Arts Council of Wales

Artist/Presenter

Nikolaz Cadoret

Born in Brittany, Nikolaz Cadoret is a multifaceted musician : he started studying the Celtic Harp with Dominig Bouchaud but is also graduated in Classical Harp from the Zürich Musik Hochschule. Prize winner of prestigious international competitions, he worked as solo harpist over... Read More →

Ben Creighton Griffiths

Ben Creighton Griffiths is a touring Jazz and Classical musician based in Wales. He made his international debut at the 2004 1er Concours International de Harpe in France coming second in the under 18 division aged 7. In 2008 he won the Junior Lily Laskine competition in Paris, winning... Read More →

Leonard Jácome

Monday June 17, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
Biscayne 2

Workshop

9:30am EDT

New Lever Harp Notation

Discover new options to enhance fluid lever technique, and see Anne-Marie’s newest approaches to music notation!

Artist/Presenter

Dr. Anne-Marie O'Farrell

Monday June 17, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
Biscayne 1

Workshop

9:30am EDT

Exhibit Hall Open

Monday June 17, 2024 9:30am - 6:00pm EDT
Peninsula Ballroom

Exhibits

11:00am EDT

Concert: Harpists of the Sunshine State

A showcase for the talent and expertise across the great state of Florida!

Artist/Presenter

Kontra Duo

Kontra Duo, the powerhouse ensemble featuring saxophonist Dannel Espinoza and harpist Kristina Finch. This dynamic duo has been captivating audiences with their energetic and colorful performances for years. Their unique combination of instruments creates a sound that is both vibrant... Read More →

Kristina Finch

Versatile and flexible in all settings Dr. Kristina Finch, harpist (Hattiesburg, MS) is constantly striving to connect with new anddiverse audiences using classical training and a passion for popular music to defy expectations and expand perceptions of the harp. Kristina performs... Read More →

Dannel Espinoza

Dannel Espinoza is currently the Assistant Professor of Saxophone at the University of Southern Mississippi. Besides regular performing with Kristina Finch in the Kontra Duo, he is also extremely active with the Project Fusion Saxophone Quartet.

Haley Rhodeside

Harpist Haley Rhodeside is currently the Principal Harp the Orlando Philharmonic, and other ensembles she has performed with include the Royal Philharmonic, Baltimore Symphony, Florida Orchestra, Sarasota Orchestra, and theCharleston Symphony. As a soloist, she was a first-prize winner... Read More →

Dr. Laura Sherman

Harpist, teacher, writer, editor, publisher

Harpists of the Sunshine State Program pdf

Monday June 17, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Canaveral Recital Hall

Concert

12:00pm EDT

Executive Luncheon (by reservation only)

Chapter and national officers and board members network and learn about AHS programs available to chapter memberships.

Monday June 17, 2024 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT
Biscayne 3

Social event

1:30pm EDT

Harp Care & Safety

Experts in the building and maintenance of the harp talk about best practices for caring for your harp.

Moderator

David Kolacny

Harps Nouveau publications include works by Kathy Bundock Moore and many others. Titles include the bestselling "Thumbs Up" , "Music Theory at the Harp", Vivaldi Concertos in C and D, "Elegy", "25 Easy Studies", "Nutcracker Ballet Parts 1&2 Combined", "Themes from Pirates of the Caribbean... Read More →

Artist/Presenter

Jason Azem

Jason Azem, harp technician, began his career at Lyon & Healy Harps, where he studied under Peter Wiley and later was appointed Production Manager of the Assembly Department. In 2012, he chose to leave Lyon & Healy to become an independent technician.Jason’s clientele includes many... Read More →

Peter Anderson

Peter Anderson, owner and founder of Anderson Group, has a deep and abiding relationship with the world of musicians. Performing since the age of four, Peter now mixes his love of music with his exceptional knowledge of the insurance business. Peter has degrees in music and business... Read More →

Dr. Steve Guerra

Steve Guerra is a composer, arranger, saxophonist, and educator who is the Director of the Studio Jazz Writing program and an Assistant Professor in the department of Studio Music and Jazz at the Frost School of Music. In high demand as a composer and arranger, Steve has been commissioned... Read More →

Monday June 17, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm EDT
Biscayne 1

Workshop, Q & A, Panel Discussion

1:30pm EDT

Secrets of Pedagogy

Ela Szmyt’s takes on teaching harp techniques, musicianship and artistry from ground zero, with ease and with long-lasting results.

Artist/Presenter

Elzbieta Szmyt

Elzbieta Szmyt, is a Professor of Music and the Chair of the Harp Department at Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. She has appeared on Polish radio and television and performed numerous solo and chamber recitals in Europe, Canada, Japan, Vietnam, and the United States. Elzbieta... Read More →

Monday June 17, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm EDT
Biscayne 2

Workshop

1:30pm EDT

Venezuelan music, fusion music & arranging

Take a leaf from the book of this Latin fusion artist and infuse YOUR playing with the dynamic rhythms and sounds of Latin music.

Artist/Presenter

Eduardo Betancourt

Considered “one of the iconic harpists of this new age,” Eduardo Betancourt is a Grammy-award winning Venezuelan musician, producer, arranger, composer, instructor, and multi-instrumentalist with 30 years of experience in traditional and fusion Venezuelan music.

Monday June 17, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm EDT
Peninsula 1

Workshop

1:30pm EDT

Celtic Harp Circle with Nikolaz Cadoret

Learn a traditional tune from Brittany and get people to dance with your harp.

Artist/Presenter

Nikolaz Cadoret

Monday June 17, 2024 1:30pm - 3:20pm EDT
Merritt 1 & 2

Workshop, Participatory Ensemble

2:30pm EDT

Ann Hobson Pilot & the Music of John Williams

Ann Hobson Pilot discusses her experience of performing with the legendary "Star Wars" composer for 30 years and working with him on his harp concerto.

Moderator

Michael Maganuco

Michael Maganuco is a harpist, teacher, arranger, and composer living in Southwest Michigan. He is principal harpist of Dubuque Symphony and has performed with Lyric Opera of Chicago and the Milwaukee and South Bend Symphonies.As a composer, Michael is known for his 2009 piece, Awakening... Read More →

Artist/Presenter

Ann Hobson Pilot

Monday June 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm EDT
Biscayne 2

Workshop

2:30pm EDT

Six Steps to Basic Arranging

This class provides a hands-on opportunity to learn six steps that will make your arrangements more interesting.

Artist/Presenter

Jan Jennings

Monday June 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm EDT
Biscayne 3

Workshop, Participatory Workshop

2:30pm EDT

The Harp Ensemble in Education

Using harp ensemble for building collaboration skills, and community

Artist/Presenter

Lydia Cleaver

Lydia Cleaver began her harp studies at Cass Technical High School in Detroit and received undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Michigan. She is an active performer, faculty member of the Michigan State University Community Music School, and a member of Detroit... Read More →

Maurice Draughn

Maurice Draughn is a freelance harpist performing in orchestras throughout Southeastern Michigan and Western Ontario. From the concert stage to the commercial studio, Maurice regularly performs various genres of music including jazz, neo-soul and gospel and has recorded with notable... Read More →

Jaymee Haefner

Charles W. Lynch

Dr. Charles W. Lynch III is the Harp Specialist for Mesa Public Schools (Mesa, AZ), directing a program which includes over 240 harp students at sixteen MPS junior and senior high schools. He is also Faculty Associate in Harp at Arizona State University and faculty for the Midwest... Read More →

Joseph Rebman

Joseph Rebman is a harpist and composer based in Cincinnati, Ohio. He directs the harp program at Cincinnati’s School for the Creative and Performing Arts, a magnet school for grades k-12 within City of Cincinnati public schools. This program has four levels of harp ensemble for... Read More →

John Wickey

John Wickey started the harp at Cass Technical High School. His degrees are from Boston University and the University of Michigan.Mr. Wickey is principal harpist of the Greenville (SC) Symphony Orchestra and the South Carolina Philharmonic and is on faculty at Converse and Anderson... Read More →

Monday June 17, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm EDT
Biscayne 1

Workshop, Panel Discussion

4:00pm EDT

Concert: New World Symphony Alumni

New World Symphony Alumni showcase.
The New World Symphony, America’s Orchestral Academy (NWS) in Miami Beach, prepares graduates of music programs for leadership roles in professional orchestras and ensembles.

Artist/Presenter

Abigail Kent

Principal Harp Fellow, New World Symphony

Janet Harriman

Janet Harriman began her harp studies with her mother, Jean Harriman. She continued her studies with Alice Chalifoux while she attended the College of Wooster, the Cleveland Institute of Music and the Salzedo Harp Colony. Harriman has performed as a soloist, chamber player, and opera... Read More →

Christine Van Arsdale

Christine Van Arsdale is a college instructor at CPCC in Charlotte, NC, where she teaches full time in the music department. She continues to perform as a substitute harpist for the Charlotte Symphony, as well as with other orchestras in the Southeast. She also maintains a harp studio... Read More →

New World Symphony Alumni Program pdf

Monday June 17, 2024 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Canaveral Recital Hall

Concert, Chamber Concert

7:30pm EDT

Concert: Noël Wan Recital

Recital by Noël Wan, Gold Medal and the Mario Falcao Prize winner in the 12th USA International Harp Competition, including a multimedia performance of music for solo acoustic and amplified harp inspired by Alfred Hitchcock's iconic 1963 horror film The Birds.

Artist/Presenter

Noël Wan

Lauded as “a huge talent [with] hidden power and amazing maturity” (Bart van Oort), Taiwanese-American harpist Noël Wan (1994) made her international debut with the Utrecht Symphony Orchestra in 2010. An acclaimed soloist, she has performed across North America, Europe, and Asia... Read More →

Monday June 17, 2024 7:30pm - 9:30pm EDT
Canaveral Recital Hall

Concert

9:30pm EDT

Post Concert Reception

Be transported by VIoelectric on an interactive auditory and visual journey with wireless, lighted instruments and original arrangements of their favorite songs!

Artist/Presenter

Violectric®

Violectric® is a string ensemble with live percussion that plays exclusive arrangements of classic and modern rock music on their exclusive Violuminescence LED electric instruments. Violectric has appeared, recorded and toured around the world with most every major name act in the... Read More →

Madison Harding

Madison “Mad Harpist” Harding performs at the Walt Disney World® Resort as part of the Walt Disney World® Orchestra, including recordings and live performances. She is currently principal harpist with the House Band for the City of Orlando, Violectric®, and is an active freelance... Read More →

Michelle Jones

Michelle Jones, “Vinylinist®” is a producer, instrumentalist, composer, recording artist, and educator/speaker. She serves as Chair of the Education Committee and as a Governor for the Recording Academy/GRAMMYs®, and band leader of Violectric®: Classic Musicians Who Rock... Read More →

Yamilet Trujillo

Yamilet Trujillo is a native of Orlando, FL. In addition to performing as a freelance cellist, Yamilet also teaches orchestra classes to beginner 4th and 5th grade students at various Elementary schools in Orange County. Her favorite music includes the Beatles, Classic 80s hits and... Read More →

Monday June 17, 2024 9:30pm - 10:30pm EDT
Peninsula Foyer

Social event

7:00am EDT

Yoga

Begin your day with a dynamic, heart-opening and breath-inspiring 45-min flow class. This yoga class will stretch and unwind the body. Leave feeling refreshed, clear, and ready for the day. All levels welcome.

Artist/Presenter

Alix Raspé Gray

Tuesday June 18, 2024 7:00am - 7:50am EDT
Peninsula 1

Workshop, Participatory Workshop

7:00am EDT

Harp Pen

Tuesday June 18, 2024 7:00am - 11:00pm EDT
Longboat 2

Administration - Operations

7:30am EDT

Registration

Tuesday June 18, 2024 7:30am - 7:00pm EDT
Peninsula Registration Desk

Administration - Operations

8:30am EDT

Harmony in Marketing: Tuning Up Your Brand for Success

Discover the essential marketing and business management best practices for success as a self-employed artist.

Artist/Presenter

Nichole Rohrbach-McKenzie

Nichole's exceptional journey juxtaposes her roles as a seasoned harpist and corporate professional, providing a truly uniqueperspective on the nexus of art and business. With over a decade of experience in both realms, she juggles her role as Manager of Client Strategy with running... Read More →

Tuesday June 18, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
Biscayne 1

Workshop

8:30am EDT

Om is Where the Harp Is

Tools and performance benefits of yoga for harpists of all levels. Workshop will focus on mindful movement and pedagogical tools for musicians.

Artist/Presenter

Alix Raspé Gray

Tuesday June 18, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
Peninsula 1

Workshop

8:30am EDT

The Legacy of Dorothy Ashby & Alice Coltrane

In a musical landscape of the 1950s where few women were able to make a mark and the harp wasn’t considered a jazz instrument, Dorothy Ashby blazed a trail as both a female musician and jazz harpist. In the late 60’s, Alice Coltrane began her solo recording career incorporating harp into her original compositions and spiritual practices. Join Brandee and Alison to learn about Ashby and Coltrane’s incredible journey, inspiring careers, and lasting legacies.

Moderator

Alison Reese

editor, Harp Column

Best known among harpists for her work as editor of Harp Column magazine, harpist Alison Reese teaches and performs withorchestras and ensembles throughout West Michigan. In addition to editing Harp Column, the harp world’s leading publication for over 30 years, she and Harp Column... Read More →

Artist/Presenter

Brandee Younger

A leading voice of the harp today, performer, composer, educator and concert curator Brandee Younger defies genres and labels. She has performed and recorded with jazz leaders and popular artists including Pharoah Sanders, Ravi Coltrane, Jack Dejohnette, Common, John Legend, The Roots... Read More →

Tuesday June 18, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
Biscayne 2

Workshop

8:30am EDT

William Marx's Concerto For Two Harps and Orchestra

Lecture-recital describing the recent journey of preparing William Marx's Double Harp Concerto (composed 1987) for performance, with live demonstration and performance of the harp parts.

Artist/Presenter

Dr. Jaclyn Wappel

Currently based in South Korea, harpist and scholar Dr. Jaclyn Wappel, earned her Doctor of Arts degree under the tutelage of Elizabeth Richter at Ball State University in 2016. Her teaching journey includes positions at James Madison University, Southern Virginia University, and... Read More →

Dr. Colleen Potter Thorburn

Instructor of Harp, University of Central Arkansas

Dr. Colleen Potter Thorburn recently performed William Marx’s Double Harp Concerto with the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra, with whom she also played as Principal Harp for 11 years. Colleen currently teaches private harp lessons and performs in central Arkansas, where she... Read More →

Tuesday June 18, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
Biscayne 3

Workshop, Lecture Recital

8:30am EDT

Legacy Exhibit

Tuesday June 18, 2024 8:30am - 4:00pm EDT
Longboat 1

Exhibits

9:00am EDT

Rehearsal: 2024 Conference Ensemble, Sunshine Harps😎

All registered harpists are welcome to join the 2024 AHS National Conference Ensemble, Sunshine Harps, led by Jan Jennings and assisted by Ela Szmyt, Willi Maerz, Laura Brandenburg, and Jaymee Haefner with members of the UNT HarpBeats.

Artist/Presenter

Jan Jennings

Laura Brandenburg

Laura Logan Brandenburg, DMA, served as Harp Instructor on the Texas Christian University School of Music faculty from 2001-2020. In addition, she maintained an active pre-college studio through the TCU Music Prep Department. A highly regarded freelance harpist, Laura enjoys a wide... Read More →

Willi Maerz

Elzbieta Szmyt

Jaymee Haefner

HarpBeats

Tuesday June 18, 2024 9:00am - 10:50am EDT
Merritt 1 & 2

Rehearsal, Participatory Workshop

9:00am EDT

Rehearsal: 2024 Conference Ensemble, Sunshine Harps😎

Artist/Presenter

Laura Brandenburg

Jaymee Haefner

HarpBeats

Jan Jennings

Willi Maerz

Elzbieta Szmyt

Tuesday June 18, 2024 9:00am - 10:50am EDT
Merritt 1 & 2

Rehearsal, Participatory Workshop

9:30am EDT

IDEA Round Table

A discussion about cultivating a more inclusive landscape for harpists by actively supporting minority composers to bridge cultural divides and foster mutual understanding.

Artist/Presenter

IDEA Committee

The Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (IDEA) Committee promotes representation for the varied demographics of the membership by encouraging diverse and accessible programming for the Society. The committee researches and provides resources that support the interests and identities... Read More →

Johanny Navarro

Composer Johanny Navarro, celebrated for Afro-Caribbean-inspired creations, has enriched diverse musical entities, such as the Multicultural Music Group and Boston Opera Collaborative. Notably, she earned Opera America's Discovery Grant in 2020 for "¿Y los Pasteles?," premiered in... Read More →

Tuesday June 18, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
Peninsula 1

Workshop, Interactive

9:30am EDT

Music of Latin America

Learn about the historical and cultural influences that shape Latin American music.

Artist/Presenter

Eduardo Betancourt

Leonard Jácome

Mónica Gallego

A native from Manizales, Colombia, Mónica Gallego holds a Master of Music degree from the New York University, Steinhardt School of Music, and the PhD summa cum laude from Burgos University, Spain where her dissertation work included a focus on the work of the of harpist Nicanor... Read More →

Tuesday June 18, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
Biscayne 2

Workshop, Q & A, Panel Discussion

9:30am EDT

Tech Aids: Apps, Social Media & Software for Harpists

Experts share their favorite apps, online marketing tools, and hardware & software to make your musical life smooth sailing!

Artist/Presenter

Kristina Finch

Kristen Elizabeth Hoyos

With over a decade of professional experience, Kristen Hoyos is a versatile harpist acclaimed for her exquisite performances at weddings, galas, and corporate events. As an esteemed featured author and music advisor for Harp Column Magazine, she shares her expertise with fellow harpists... Read More →

Tuesday June 18, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
Biscayne 1

Workshop

9:30am EDT

Think it, do it, finish it!

Find out how to manage your creativity to turn your next big idea (concert, website, social media, whatever!) into a finished project.

Artist/Presenter

Kimberly Rowe

Kimberly Rowe is a professional harpist and website designer. She founded Harp Column magazine in 1993, serving as its editor until 2013, and now oversees the company’s three websites including Harp Column, Harp Column Academy, and Harp Column Music. As a harpist she has performed... Read More →

Alison Reese

editor, Harp Column

Tuesday June 18, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
Biscayne 3

Workshop

9:30am EDT

Exhibit Hall Open

Tuesday June 18, 2024 9:30am - 6:00pm EDT
Peninsula Ballroom

Exhibits

11:00am EDT

Concert: From Bach to Beyond on lever and pedal harps

Drs. Anne-Marie O’Farrell and Laura Sherman (lever and pedal harps) present music by J.S. Bach, and original lever harp compositions by Dr. O’Farrell.

Artist/Presenter

Dr. Anne-Marie O'Farrell

Dr. Laura Sherman

Harpist, teacher, writer, editor, publisher

From Bach to Beyond Program pdf

Tuesday June 18, 2024 11:00am - 12:00pm EDT
Canaveral Recital Hall

Concert

12:00pm EDT

IDEA Soundboard

The IDEA Committee will host an informal meet and greet to get to know members and hear their ideas to support a more inclusive membership. All are invited to this event.

Artist/Presenter

IDEA Committee

Tuesday June 18, 2024 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT
Event Hub

Meet & Greet

1:30pm EDT

Business for Harpists Q & A Session

A powerhouse panel answers your questions about navigating the often confusing world of self employed business management.

Moderator

Kimberly Rowe

Artist/Presenter

Kristina Finch

Kristen Elizabeth Hoyos

Alison Reese

editor, Harp Column

Nichole Rohrbach-McKenzie

Tuesday June 18, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm EDT
Biscayne 2

Workshop, Q & A, Panel Discussion

1:30pm EDT

Harpists in Women's Orchestras and All-Girl Bands

Before women's inclusion in professional orchestras, top female instrumentalists found opportunities in all-women orchestras and dance bands. Harpists were important members of these ensembles.

Artist/Presenter

Emily Laurance

Editor, American Harp Journal

Emily Laurance is editor of the American Harp Journal and musicology faculty at Oberlin Conservatory of Music. As harpist she performs frequently with many Northeast Ohio ensembles. In addition to degrees from Oberlin and the New England Conservatories, Dr. Laurance received her PhD... Read More →

Tuesday June 18, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm EDT
Biscayne 3

Workshop

1:30pm EDT

Improvisation

Tips and tricks to take away any fear when it comes to improvising in different contexts.

Artist/Presenter

Nikolaz Cadoret

Tuesday June 18, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm EDT
Peninsula 1

Workshop, Participatory Workshop

1:30pm EDT

New World Symphony Panel

The New World Symphony in Miami Beach trains & mentors musicians to pursue professional performance careers. The fellowship program offers in-depth exposure to traditional and modern repertoire, professional development training and personalized experiences working with leading guest conductors, soloists and visiting faculty. Harp alumni make significant contributions to ensembles in the US and abroad.

Moderator

Dr. Laura Sherman

Harpist, teacher, writer, editor, publisher

Artist/Presenter

Abigail Kent

Principal Harp Fellow, New World Symphony

Christine Van Arsdale

Janet Harriman

Tuesday June 18, 2024 1:30pm - 2:20pm EDT
Biscayne 1

Workshop, Q & A, Panel Discussion

2:00pm EDT

Rehearsal: 2024 Conference Ensemble, Sunshine Harps😎

Artist/Presenter

Laura Brandenburg

Jan Jennings

Willi Maerz

Jaymee Haefner

HarpBeats

Tuesday June 18, 2024 2:00pm - 3:50pm EDT
Merritt 1 & 2

Rehearsal, Participatory Workshop

2:30pm EDT

Memories of Camden & The Teaching of Alice Chalifoux

Several former students of the legendary Alice Chalifoux explore her teaching style and experiences studying with her, especially at the legendary Salzedo Harp Colony in Camden, Maine, which is being celebrated this summer.

Artist/Presenter

Ann Hobson Pilot

Janet Harriman

Tuesday June 18, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm EDT
Peninsula 1

Workshop

2:30pm EDT

Notation Software

Get professional insights into using Dorico, Finale, LilyPond, MuseScore, and Sibelius music notation software, to help you build better scores for the harp.

Artist/Presenter

Christopher Green

Christopher Green is a digital designer and software architect based out of Tucson Arizona.

Rachel Green

Happystring Music

A teacher, author and performer, Rachel Green strives to help harpists share the joy of music with their friends, families, and communities. Holding a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Arizona, Rachel has studied pedagogy with pianists Stephen Pierce and Lisa... Read More →

Dr. Steve Guerra

Tuesday June 18, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm EDT
Biscayne 2

Workshop

2:30pm EDT

Playing Pain Free: A Guide to Early Identification & Prevention of Injury at the Harp.

Our interactive presentation/workshop removes the stigma surrounding pain at the harp by providing information and strategies for early identification and prevention of injury.

Artist/Presenter

Kai Rasmussen

Kai Rasmussen is a registered Physiotherapist with the College of Physiotherapy of Ontario, and a member of the CanadianPhysiotherapy Association. She is a graduate of the University of Western Ontario. Her post graduate studies include Orthopaedic manual therapy and acupuncture... Read More →

Angela Schwarzkopf

JUNO award winning harpist Angela Schwarzkopf concertizes throughout North America as a soloist, chamber musician, andorchestral musician. She is principal harp of London Symphonia and frequently performs as guest principal harp with the National Arts Centre Orchestra. The first harpist... Read More →

Tuesday June 18, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm EDT
Biscayne 3

Workshop, Interactive

2:30pm EDT

Working with Composers

Learn the resources, tools, and best practices for working with composers to effect great outcomes with new music!

Moderator

Sara Cutler

Sara Cutler has appeared around the world as soloist with orchestra, performing concertos at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, and at the Edinburgh Festival. She has been the featured soloist with ensembles such as the Orchestra of St Luke’s and the American Symphony... Read More →

Artist/Presenter

Dr. Laura Sherman

Harpist, teacher, writer, editor, publisher

Charles Norman Mason

Chair, Dept of Composition, Frost School of Music

Mason has received many awards including the Rome Prize and the 2023 MTNA Distinguished Composer Award, the Ernst Bacon Memorial Award American Prize, Premi Internacional de Composició Musical Ciutat de Tarragona Orchestra Music prize, NEA Individual Artist Award, and Dale Warland... Read More →

Elisa Torres

Elisa Torres is the first Puerto Rican to become principal harpist with the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra. Native of Old San Juan, Torres began studying harp at the age of seven at the Puerto Rico Conservatory of Music. She studied at Indiana University under the tutelage of Susann... Read More →

Johanny Navarro

Dr. Stella Sung

Director- UCF-CREATE, University of Central FL

Stella Sung is an award-winning composer with works performed throughout the United States and abroad. She was the first Composer-in-Residence for the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra (2008-2011) and was also Composer-In-Residence for the Dayton Performing Arts Alliance (2013-16). She... Read More →

Kristina Finch

Dannel Espinoza

Tuesday June 18, 2024 2:30pm - 3:20pm EDT
Biscayne 1

Workshop, Q & A, Panel Discussion

4:00pm EDT

Concert: Music of Latin America

Original and avant-garde Venezuelan repertoire with influences from Jazz and world folklore, in the unique style of Eduardo Betancourt.
Leonard Jacome and Humberly Maldonado in a unique and Colorful performance, which shows the majesty of the Venezuelan cultural dance accompanied by the Venezuelan Electric Harp. Venezuelan merengue, Joropo, Afro-Venezuelan Rhythms.

Artist/Presenter

Eduardo Betancourt

Leonard Jácome

Humberly Maldonado

Humberly Maldonado is a proponent of Venezuelan Nationalist dance, a cultural expression that has its roots in the regional folk traditions of Venezuela. She is a graduate of the University of Tachira, San Cristobal, Tachira, Venezuela, studying Agro Industrial Engineering, where... Read More →

Music of Latin America Program pdf

Tuesday June 18, 2024 4:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Canaveral Recital Hall

Concert

7:30pm EDT

Concert: International Flavors with Descofar & The Transatlantic Hot Club

Descofar is a power trio from Brest, FR, between Breton music and psychedelic post-rock. Two electric harps and drums that may knock all your prejudices over...

An exciting show of Swing classics, Django standards, and Latin Bossa Nova by the Transatlantic Hot Club.

This presentation by Ben Creighton Griffiths and the Transatlantic Hot Club is made possible thanks to a grant from Wales Arts International,The Arts Council of Wales, and the Government of Wales.

Artist/Presenter

Descofar

Descofar began as a collaboration between two Breton harpists, Nikolaz Cadoret and his wife Alice Soria-Cadoret. Percussionist Yvon Molard rounds out the trio, adding an incentive to explore dance music and rhythm.

Nikolaz Cadoret

Alice Soria-Cadoret

Adventurous musician, Alice Soria-Cadoret goes from the classical (Ensemble 8611, Verbier Festival Orchestra, Berliner Philharmoniker, Orchestre National de Bretagne...) to the contemporary (Sillages...) while enjoying transversal creations in France and Europe (Finis Terrae, Zwei... Read More →

Yvon Molard

Yvon Molard, Drums and live electronics: Iconic drummer and percussionist of the new generation of Bretonmusic, Yvon Molard has built his rhythmic vision far from traditional schools, in close contact with dancers and audiences, immersed in the reality of nights in Brittany and beyond... Read More →

The Transatlantic Hot Club

The Transatlantic Hot Club was formed by Ben Creighton Griffiths (Harp) and Adrien Chevalier (Violin) in 2013 when they met while both performing at ‘Journées de la Harpe’ - a harp festival on the French Caribbean islands of Martinique, Guyane, Guadeloupe, St Anne, and St Lucia... Read More →

Ben Creighton Griffiths

Adrien Chevalier

Born in Provence, South of France, into a family of violinists, Adrien Chevalier began his musical education at the Avignon Classical Conservatory, where he studied for 12 years before moving to Paris: there he developed his passion for Gypsy jazz and Eastern European music. He created... Read More →

Philip Ambuel

Internatonal Flavors Concert Program pdf

Tuesday June 18, 2024 7:30pm - 9:30pm EDT
Canaveral Recital Hall

Concert, Evening Concert

10:00pm EDT

Post Concert Reception

Original compositions as well as Celtic, Broadway, and Standards featuring Victoria Schultz on harp and Craig Thomas on viola da gamba, guitar, recorders, and violin.

Artist/Presenter

Stringfyre

Stringfyre offers a unique Contemporary sound with acoustic instruments performing original music, haunting melodies of Scandinavia, the Orient, and music of the Celts. Members of Stringfyre have been featured entertainers for Theme parks in Central Florida, Celtic, Scottish, Irish... Read More →

Victoria Lynn Schultz

Victoria Schultz has performed for President Jimmy Carter, performed with the Mantovani Orchestra tour of China, and toured with Celtic Woman, Josh Groban, Johnny Matthis, Connie Francis and as featured soloist with the Irish Band “The Chieftains”. Her recordings and music publications... Read More →

Craig Thomas

Craig Thomas (viola da gamba, guitar, flute, recorders, and vocals) has performed for with groups at Walt Disney World, Discovery Cove, Silver Springs, and Cypress Gardens. He was featured with the Key West Gazebo show at SeaWorld, and the Irish Duo/Trio at Finnegan’s Bar & Grill... Read More →

Tuesday June 18, 2024 10:00pm - 11:00pm EDT
Peninsula Foyer

Social event

7:00am EDT

Yoga

Artist/Presenter

Alix Raspé Gray

Wednesday June 19, 2024 7:00am - 7:50am EDT
Peninsula 1

Workshop, Participatory Workshop

7:00am EDT

Harp Pen

Wednesday June 19, 2024 7:00am - 3:00pm EDT
Longboat 2

Administration - Operations

7:30am EDT

Registration

Wednesday June 19, 2024 7:30am - 3:00pm EDT
Peninsula Registration Desk

Administration - Operations

8:30am EDT

AHS Grants

Get the grant! Discover tips and insights to make your next AHS grant application a success.

Artist/Presenter

Kela Walton

AHS Chairman & TCU Harp Instructor, American Harp Society & Texas Christian University

Kela Walton enjoys a varied career as a freelance performer and serves on the faculty at Texas Christian University. She co-directed the youth harp ensemble for the 2016 AHS national conference, and frequently works with harp students in ensembles and adjudicating throughout the United... Read More →

Karen Lindquist

KAREN LINDQUIST, harp has enjoyed a busy career as a chamber music player. She has appeared at the Marlboro Music Festival, with the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, The White Mountains Festival, Music from Angel Fire, at the Bravo! Colorado Festival in Vail and the Manchester... Read More →

Wednesday June 19, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
Peninsula 1

Workshop

8:30am EDT

Chapter Ambassador Projects

The Chapter Ambassadors Program promotes student engagement at the chapter and national levels, creating service and community building opportunities for students, and fostering future leadership potential for the Society.
Chapter Ambassadors showcase their community engagement projects through a poster session.

Artist/Presenter

Chapter Ambassadors

Wednesday June 19, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
Biscayne 3

Workshop

8:30am EDT

The "Exotic" in the Music of Marcel Tournier

Drawing together influential elements from Tournier’s world, social circle, compositional technique and live musical illustrations, Alex Rider explores the man and the music.

Artist/Presenter

Alexander Rider

With interests encompassing period performance to the newest music, Alexander freelances with major ensembles throughout the United Kingdom. These include the BBC Concert, Philharmonic and Scottish Symphony Orchestras, City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra, the London Sinfonietta... Read More →

Wednesday June 19, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
Biscayne 2

Workshop

8:30am EDT

Zabaleta in Columbia

Explore the legacy of distinguished 20th Century Spanish harpist Nicanor Zabaleta and his musical connections to Colombia, South America.

Artist/Presenter

Mónica Gallego

Wednesday June 19, 2024 8:30am - 9:20am EDT
Biscayne 1

Workshop

8:30am EDT

Legacy Exhibit

Wednesday June 19, 2024 8:30am - 11:00am EDT
Longboat 1

Exhibits

9:00am EDT

Rehearsal: 2024 Conference Ensemble, Sunshine Harps😎

Artist/Presenter

Jan Jennings

Laura Brandenburg

Willi Maerz

Jaymee Haefner

HarpBeats

Wednesday June 19, 2024 9:00am - 10:45am EDT
Canaveral Recital Hall

Rehearsal, Participatory Workshop

9:30am EDT

Elements of Puerto Rican Bomba Rhythms for Harp and Cello

Puerto Rican composer Johanny Navarro explains the bomba rhythms used to create her piece "Suite Bombástica", and how the cello and harp represents them.

Artist/Presenter

Johanny Navarro

Elisa Torres

Luis Miguel Rojas

Luis Miguel Rojas is a product of the program for youth symphony orchestras of Venezuela, also known as “El Sistema”.He began his career as a trumpet player and member of the “Simón Bolívar Symphony Orchestra”. Nevertheless, due to lung disease, he had to stop his trumpet... Read More →

Wednesday June 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
Biscayne 1

Workshop, Lecture Recital

9:30am EDT

Introduction to Jazz

A fun first look at jazz improvisation on the harp covering a variety of styles!

This presentation is made possible thanks to a grant from Wales Arts International and The Arts Council of Wales.

Artist/Presenter

Ben Creighton Griffiths

Wednesday June 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
Merritt 1 & 2

Workshop, Participatory Workshop

9:30am EDT

Strategies for Practicing Sight Reading

Your heart seizes with dread at the idea of SIGHT READING??? Come discover resources for meeting the printed page as a friend, not a foe.

Artist/Presenter

Phala Tracy

Phala Tracy teaches Suzuki harp and music theory at Studio Fidicina in Minneapolis, MN and she is adjunct professor of harp at Gustavus Adolphus College. She teaches at summer Suzuki Institutes across the country and she is a Suzuki harp teacher trainer. Phala plays and sings... Read More →

Wednesday June 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:20am EDT
Biscayne 2

Workshop

9:30am EDT

Exhibit Hall Open

Wednesday June 19, 2024 9:30am - 11:30am EDT
Peninsula Ballroom

Exhibits

11:00am EDT

Ensemble Concert: Sunshine Harps😎 & HarpBeats

The 2024 conference Sunshine Harps ensemble performs, along with the University of North Texas HarpBeats ensemble!

Artist/Presenter

Concert