Harp players, also known as harpists, are musicians who specialize in playing the harp, a string instrument with a distinctive sound and rich history. Harpists are admired for their skillful manipulation of the instrument’s strings, creating melodies and harmonies that range from ethereal and delicate to powerful and resonant.
In orchestral settings, harpists often provide a foundation of lush chords and arpeggios, adding depth and texture to symphonic compositions. They are also featured prominently in chamber music ensembles, where their contributions enhance the ensemble’s sonic palette and harmonic richness.
Beyond classical music, harpists explore a diverse range of genres, including Celtic, folk, jazz, and contemporary music. They employ techniques such as glissando (sliding between notes), arpeggiation, and harmonic effects to evoke different moods and atmospheres in their performances.
Harp players frequently collaborate with composers to expand the repertoire for their instrument, commissioning new works and arrangements that showcase the harp’s expressive capabilities. They also engage in solo performances, demonstrating their virtuosity and artistry through recitals and recordings that highlight the instrument’s versatility and charm.
Overall, harp players contribute to the musical landscape with their technical proficiency, musical sensitivity, and the enchanting sound of the harp, making them integral to both traditional and contemporary music genres.
1. Nicanor Zabaleta
Nicanor Zabaleta was a legendary Spanish harpist known for revolutionizing the perception and repertoire of the harp in classical music. Born on January 7, 1907, in San Sebastián, Spain, Zabaleta’s career spanned much of the 20th century, during which he elevated the harp to prominence as a solo instrument through his virtuosity and innovative approach.
Zabaleta’s playing was characterized by its technical brilliance, expressive depth, and lyrical phrasing, captivating audiences and critics alike. He expanded the harp repertoire by commissioning new works from prominent composers and arranging existing pieces to showcase the harp’s versatility and expressive range.
As a soloist, Zabaleta performed with major orchestras worldwide and gained recognition for his ability to blend virtuosic technique with sensitive musical interpretation. His performances of classical masterpieces and Spanish music, in particular, were celebrated for their authenticity and emotional impact.
Beyond his solo career, Zabaleta was a dedicated educator, mentoring young harpists and advocating for the advancement of harp technique and repertoire. His contributions to harp pedagogy and his influence on subsequent generations of harpists have left an enduring legacy in the classical music community.
Nicanor Zabaleta’s recordings, which include solo albums and collaborations with orchestras and chamber ensembles, continue to inspire harpists and music enthusiasts worldwide. His commitment to artistic excellence, coupled with his passion for the harp, solidifies his reputation as one of the greatest harpists of the 20th century.
2. Susann McDonald
Susann McDonald is a distinguished American harpist celebrated for her virtuosity, profound musicality, and contributions to both the classical and harp music communities. Born in Missouri, McDonald has achieved international acclaim as a soloist, chamber musician, educator, and advocate for the harp.
McDonald’s career highlights include performances with major orchestras worldwide, such as the London Symphony Orchestra and the New York Philharmonic. Her playing is characterized by its technical precision, expressive depth, and ability to convey a wide range of emotions through the harp’s rich sound palette.
As a chamber musician, McDonald has collaborated with renowned ensembles and musicians, exploring diverse repertoire and enhancing the harp’s role in chamber music settings. Her chamber music performances highlight her versatility and ability to blend seamlessly with other instruments while showcasing the harp’s unique voice.
In addition to her performing career, Susann McDonald is a dedicated educator, serving as professor of harp at Indiana University’s Jacobs School of Music. She has mentored countless harpists through her teaching and masterclasses, shaping the next generation of musicians with her expertise and commitment to artistic excellence.
McDonald’s influence extends beyond performance and education; she has commissioned and premiered numerous works for the harp, expanding its repertoire and contributing to its evolution as a solo and chamber music instrument. Her advocacy for the harp’s advancement and her contributions to harp pedagogy have made a lasting impact on the classical music community.
Through her recordings, which encompass solo albums, chamber music collaborations, and educational materials, Susann McDonald continues to inspire harpists and music lovers worldwide. Her artistic legacy and dedication to the harp ensure that her influence will be felt for generations to come.
3. Yolanda Kondonassis
Yolanda Kondonassis is an acclaimed American classical harpist known for her virtuosity, versatility, and profound interpretations. Born in Norman, Oklahoma, Kondonassis began studying the harp at an early age and quickly distinguished herself as a prodigious talent.
Her career spans a wide range of musical achievements, including numerous solo performances with major orchestras worldwide and collaborations with renowned conductors. Kondonassis is celebrated for her technical brilliance, expressive playing style, and ability to captivate audiences with her rich, lyrical sound.
In addition to her performances, Kondonassis is a dedicated advocate for contemporary music and has commissioned and premiered numerous works by prominent composers. Her commitment to expanding the harp repertoire has made a significant impact on the classical music community.
Kondonassis has released over 20 albums, showcasing her versatility and mastery across various musical genres and styles. She is also an accomplished author and educator, sharing her expertise through masterclasses, workshops, and educational initiatives.
Yolanda Kondonassis’s contributions to the harp and classical music have earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards throughout her career. She continues to inspire audiences and fellow musicians with her artistry, innovation, and dedication to advancing the harp as a solo instrument.
4. Catrin Finch
Catrin Finch is a prominent Welsh harpist known for her exceptional talent, versatility, and contributions to both classical and traditional Welsh music. Born in Llanon, Wales, Finch began playing the harp at the age of five and quickly gained recognition for her prodigious skill.
Her career has been marked by a diverse range of achievements, including performances as a soloist with major orchestras worldwide and collaborations with renowned musicians and composers. Finch is celebrated for her virtuosic technique, expressive interpretations, and ability to seamlessly blend classical repertoire with traditional Welsh music.
As a champion of Welsh culture, Finch has played a significant role in promoting Welsh music both nationally and internationally. She has collaborated with Welsh composers to expand the harp repertoire and has showcased the beauty and richness of Welsh folk traditions through her performances and recordings.
In addition to her performing career, Catrin Finch is a dedicated educator and mentor, sharing her passion for the harp through teaching, masterclasses, and educational outreach programs. She continues to inspire new generations of harpists and musicians with her artistry and commitment to preserving and promoting Welsh musical heritage.
Catrin Finch’s recordings and performances have earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards, solidifying her reputation as one of the leading harpists of her generation. Her artistic achievements and cultural contributions have made a lasting impact on the world of classical and Welsh music.
5. Alice Giles
Alice Giles is an acclaimed Australian harpist known for her virtuosity, versatility, and significant contributions to the classical music world. Born in Sydney, Giles has established herself as a leading figure in the harp community through her dynamic performances, innovative programming, and dedication to expanding the harp repertoire.
Giles’ career spans solo performances with major orchestras globally, including the London Symphony Orchestra and the Philadelphia Orchestra. Her playing is characterized by its technical brilliance, expressive depth, and ability to explore a wide range of musical styles, from Baroque and classical to contemporary and experimental.
As a champion of new music, Giles has commissioned and premiered numerous works by contemporary composers, enriching the harp’s repertoire and pushing artistic boundaries. Her collaborations with composers and dedication to exploring innovative techniques have expanded the possibilities of harp performance and composition.
In addition to her solo career, Giles is an active chamber musician, collaborating with esteemed ensembles and musicians worldwide. Her chamber music performances highlight her versatility and collaborative spirit, contributing to diverse and engaging musical experiences.
Alice Giles is also committed to harp education and outreach, teaching masterclasses and workshops internationally. She serves as a mentor to young harpists, sharing her expertise and passion for the instrument while nurturing the next generation of harp performers and enthusiasts.
Through her recordings, which encompass solo albums, chamber music collaborations, and compositions for the harp, Alice Giles continues to inspire audiences and fellow musicians worldwide. Her artistic achievements and contributions to harp music solidify her reputation as a leading harpist and advocate for the instrument’s prominence in classical music.
6. Marie-Pierre Langlamet
Marie-Pierre Langlamet is a highly regarded French harpist known for her exceptional artistry, versatility, and extensive contributions to classical music. Born in Mulhouse, France, Langlamet began studying the harp at a young age and quickly distinguished herself as a prodigious talent.
Her career has been marked by prestigious appointments and performances on the international stage. Since 1985, she has served as the principal harpist of the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra, a position that highlights her technical mastery and musical sensitivity. Langlamet’s role in one of the world’s leading orchestras has allowed her to collaborate with renowned conductors and perform a diverse repertoire spanning from classical to contemporary music.
As a soloist, Marie-Pierre Langlamet has performed with major orchestras and in prominent concert venues worldwide, captivating audiences with her expressive interpretations and virtuosic playing. She is recognized for her ability to bring out the harp’s full range of colors and dynamics, showcasing its potential as a solo instrument.
In addition to her orchestral and solo career, Langlamet is passionate about chamber music and has collaborated with esteemed musicians in various ensembles. Her chamber music performances demonstrate her versatility and ability to adapt to different musical styles and contexts.
Marie-Pierre Langlamet’s recordings and performances have earned her critical acclaim and numerous accolades throughout her career. She continues to inspire audiences and fellow musicians with her artistry, technical prowess, and dedication to advancing the harp repertoire and performance standards globally.
7. Nancy Allen
Nancy Allen is a highly esteemed American harpist recognized for her exceptional talent, versatility, and influential contributions to the world of classical music. Born in New York City, Allen has garnered acclaim both as a soloist and chamber musician, captivating audiences with her virtuosity and musical sensitivity.
Allen’s illustrious career includes serving as the principal harpist of the New York Philharmonic, a position she has held since 1999. Her performances with the orchestra are marked by their lyrical phrasing, technical brilliance, and ability to seamlessly integrate within the orchestral texture, enhancing symphonic compositions with the harp’s distinctive sound.
As a soloist, Nancy Allen has appeared with major orchestras worldwide, performing a diverse repertoire that spans from classical masterpieces to contemporary works and new compositions. Her interpretations are celebrated for their depth of expression and exquisite artistry, showcasing the harp’s versatility and expressive capabilities.
In addition to her orchestral engagements, Allen is an avid chamber musician, collaborating with renowned ensembles and artists to explore a wide range of chamber music repertoire. Her chamber music performances highlight her versatility and collaborative spirit, enriching the musical landscape with innovative interpretations and artistic insights.
Nancy Allen is also dedicated to harp education and mentorship, serving as a faculty member at The Juilliard School and the Aspen Music Festival and School. She has inspired and mentored numerous young harpists through her teaching, masterclasses, and educational initiatives, shaping the future of harp performance and pedagogy.
Through her recordings, which include solo albums, chamber music collaborations, and orchestral performances, Nancy Allen continues to inspire audiences worldwide with her exceptional artistry and dedication to musical excellence. Her contributions to the harp repertoire and her influence on the classical music community affirm her status as one of the leading harpists of her generation.
8. Xavier de Maistre
Xavier de Maistre is a highly acclaimed French harpist known for his virtuosity, innovative approach, and extensive contributions to classical music. Born in Toulon, France, de Maistre began studying the harp at an early age and quickly established himself as a leading figure in the harp world.
His career is distinguished by his versatility and artistry across a wide range of musical genres and styles. As a soloist, de Maistre has performed with major orchestras around the world, including the Vienna Philharmonic, the London Symphony Orchestra, and the New York Philharmonic. He is celebrated for his technical precision, expressive phrasing, and ability to showcase the harp’s dynamic range and expressive capabilities.
In addition to his orchestral engagements, Xavier de Maistre is a passionate advocate for expanding the harp repertoire. He has commissioned and premiered numerous works by contemporary composers, pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the instrument and exploring new musical horizons.
De Maistre’s recordings have garnered critical acclaim and earned him a dedicated following of admirers. He is also known for his collaborations with leading musicians and conductors, as well as his innovative transcriptions and arrangements that highlight the harp’s versatility in both classical and crossover contexts.
Xavier de Maistre’s commitment to artistic excellence, coupled with his profound musicality and technical mastery, has solidified his reputation as one of the preeminent harpists of his generation. He continues to inspire audiences and fellow musicians alike with his passion for music and his dedication to advancing the harp as a solo instrument on the global stage.
9. Isabelle Moretti
Isabelle Moretti is a highly regarded French harpist known for her virtuosity, expressive playing, and contributions to both classical and contemporary harp repertoire. Born in Paris, Moretti has established herself as a prominent figure in the international harp community through her dynamic performances and innovative approach to music.
Moretti’s career encompasses solo performances with major orchestras worldwide, including the Orchestre de Paris and the London Symphony Orchestra. Her playing is distinguished by its lyrical phrasing, technical precision, and ability to convey a wide range of emotions through the harp’s rich timbre.
As a champion of contemporary music, Isabelle Moretti has commissioned and premiered numerous works by prominent composers, expanding the harp’s repertoire and exploring new possibilities for the instrument. Her collaborations with composers and dedication to innovative programming have pushed artistic boundaries and enriched the harp’s role in modern music.
In addition to her solo career, Moretti is an active chamber musician, collaborating with esteemed ensembles and artists across different genres. Her chamber music performances showcase her versatility and collaborative spirit, contributing to diverse and engaging musical experiences.
Isabelle Moretti is also committed to harp education and mentorship, serving as a professor at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris (CNSMDP). She shares her expertise with aspiring harpists through masterclasses, workshops, and educational initiatives, nurturing the next generation of harp performers and educators.
Through her recordings, which range from solo albums to chamber music collaborations and orchestral performances, Isabelle Moretti continues to inspire audiences and fellow musicians worldwide. Her artistic achievements and contributions to harp music affirm her reputation as a leading harpist and advocate for the instrument’s prominence in classical and contemporary music.
10. Naoko Yoshino
Naoko Yoshino is a celebrated Japanese harpist renowned for her exceptional artistry, versatility, and contributions to classical music. Born in Tokyo, Yoshino began studying the harp at a young age and quickly emerged as a prodigious talent in the international harp community.
Her career spans several decades and encompasses a diverse range of achievements. Naoko Yoshino has performed as a soloist with prestigious orchestras worldwide, including the Berlin Philharmonic, the London Symphony Orchestra, and the New York Philharmonic. She is acclaimed for her exquisite technique, lyrical interpretations, and ability to convey deep emotional expression through her playing.
In addition to her solo performances, Yoshino is an avid chamber musician and collaborates with renowned musicians and ensembles. She is known for her versatility in exploring a wide repertoire, from Baroque to contemporary music, and for her contributions to expanding the harp’s role in chamber music settings.
Naoko Yoshino’s recordings have received widespread acclaim and showcase her artistry and mastery of the harp. She has also been actively involved in promoting cultural exchange and education through her performances, workshops, and masterclasses worldwide.
Throughout her career, Naoko Yoshino’s dedication to artistic excellence and her passion for the harp have made her a respected figure in the classical music world. She continues to inspire audiences and fellow musicians with her profound musicality, technical brilliance, and commitment to advancing the harp repertoire and performance standards globally.
11. Anneleen Lenaerts
Anneleen Lenaerts is a prominent Belgian harpist celebrated for her exceptional artistry, versatility, and contributions to the classical music world. Born in Sint-Truiden, Belgium, Lenaerts has garnered international acclaim for her captivating performances and innovative approach to harp music.
Lenaerts’ career highlights include serving as the principal harpist of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and the Vienna State Opera, positions she has held since 2010. Her performances with these prestigious ensembles showcase her technical mastery, expressive depth, and ability to interpret a diverse range of repertoire with finesse and sensitivity.
As a soloist, Anneleen Lenaerts has appeared with major orchestras worldwide, performing concertos by composers such as Mozart, Debussy, and Glière. Her interpretations are praised for their lyrical phrasing, virtuosic technique, and ability to convey emotional nuance through the harp’s resonant sound.
In addition to her orchestral engagements, Lenaerts is an avid chamber musician, collaborating with esteemed ensembles and musicians to explore a wide array of chamber music repertoire. Her chamber music performances highlight her versatility and ability to blend seamlessly within ensemble settings, enriching musical interpretations with her nuanced artistry.
Anneleen Lenaerts is also committed to harp education and outreach, mentoring young musicians through masterclasses, workshops, and educational initiatives worldwide. She shares her passion for the harp and her insights into music interpretation, inspiring aspiring harpists to pursue excellence and creativity in their musical endeavors.
Through her recordings, which encompass solo albums, chamber music collaborations, and orchestral performances, Anneleen Lenaerts continues to captivate audiences with her remarkable talent and dedication to musical excellence. Her contributions to the harp repertoire and her influence on the classical music community affirm her status as a leading harpist of her generation.
12. Sivan Magen
Sivan Magen is a distinguished Israeli harpist recognized for his exceptional talent, versatility, and contributions to classical music. Born in Jerusalem, Magen began playing the harp at a young age and quickly established himself as a prominent figure in the international harp community.
His career has been marked by numerous accolades and achievements. Sivan Magen has performed as a soloist with leading orchestras worldwide, including the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Orchestre National de France. He is celebrated for his technical prowess, expressive playing, and ability to interpret a diverse range of repertoire with sensitivity and virtuosity.
In addition to his solo career, Magen is an avid chamber musician and collaborates with esteemed musicians and ensembles. He is known for his innovative programming and for expanding the harp repertoire through commissions and premieres of new works by contemporary composers.
Sivan Magen’s recordings have garnered critical acclaim and demonstrate his versatility across various musical genres and styles. He is also committed to music education and shares his expertise through teaching, masterclasses, and educational outreach activities around the world.
As a harpist, Sivan Magen continues to captivate audiences and inspire fellow musicians with his artistry, technical excellence, and dedication to advancing the harp as a solo and chamber music instrument on the global stage.
13. Florence Sitruk
Florence Sitruk is a distinguished French-Swiss harpist renowned for her technical mastery, expressive playing, and significant contributions to the classical music world. Born in 1974, Sitruk has established herself as one of the leading harpists of her generation, captivating audiences with her virtuosity and artistic depth.
Sitruk’s career includes performances as a soloist with prestigious orchestras such as the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra, the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra. Her interpretations are praised for their lyrical beauty, precision, and emotional intensity, showcasing the harp’s full range of expressive capabilities.
In addition to her orchestral engagements, Florence Sitruk is an avid chamber musician, collaborating with esteemed ensembles and artists to explore a diverse repertoire. Her chamber music performances highlight her versatility and ability to create rich, textured soundscapes, enhancing the overall musical experience.
Sitruk is also dedicated to expanding the harp’s repertoire, working with contemporary composers to commission new works and bring fresh perspectives to the instrument. Her commitment to innovation and artistic exploration has significantly enriched the harp’s presence in modern classical music.
Beyond her performing career, Florence Sitruk is a passionate educator and mentor. She has taught at renowned institutions such as the Haute École de Musique de Genève and the Hochschule für Musik in Detmold, Germany. Through her teaching, masterclasses, and workshops, she has inspired and guided numerous young harpists, fostering the next generation of musicians.
Sitruk’s recordings, which include solo albums and collaborative projects, have been widely acclaimed for their artistic excellence and technical brilliance. Her contributions to the world of harp music and her influence as a performer and educator have left a lasting impact on the classical music community, cementing her legacy as a leading figure in the field.
14. Lavinia Meijer
Lavinia Meijer is a highly acclaimed Dutch harpist known for her virtuosity, versatility, and innovative approach to music. Born in South Korea and raised in the Netherlands, Meijer began studying the harp at a young age and quickly rose to prominence in the classical music world.
Her career spans a wide range of musical genres and styles, from classical repertoire to contemporary and experimental music. Lavinia Meijer has performed as a soloist with major orchestras and in prestigious venues worldwide, captivating audiences with her expressive playing and technical skill.
Meijer is particularly celebrated for her collaborations with contemporary composers and artists, pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the harp. She has premiered numerous works and transcriptions that highlight the harp’s versatility and its potential in modern music contexts.
In addition to her performing career, Lavinia Meijer is committed to music education and outreach. She is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of musicians through workshops, masterclasses, and educational initiatives.
Lavinia Meijer’s recordings have received critical acclaim and have earned her a dedicated following of admirers. Her artistic vision, technical proficiency, and adventurous spirit continue to shape and redefine the role of the harp in classical and contemporary music landscapes.
15. Emmanuel Ceysson
Emmanuel Ceysson is a renowned French harpist acclaimed for his exceptional talent, virtuosity, and contributions to the classical music world. Born in France, Ceysson has garnered international recognition for his captivating performances and profound musicality.
Ceysson’s career includes prestigious positions such as Principal Harpist of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra in New York, a position he held from 2015 to 2019. His performances with the Met Opera Orchestra showcased his technical prowess, expressive depth, and ability to interpret a diverse repertoire with finesse and sensitivity.
As a soloist, Emmanuel Ceysson has performed with leading orchestras worldwide, including the Vienna Philharmonic, the Berlin Philharmonic, and the London Symphony Orchestra. His interpretations are marked by their lyrical phrasing, dynamic range, and mastery of the harp’s rich tonal palette, captivating audiences and critics alike.
In addition to his orchestral engagements, Ceysson is an avid chamber musician, collaborating with esteemed ensembles and artists to explore a wide range of chamber music repertoire. His chamber music performances highlight his versatility and ability to blend seamlessly within ensemble settings, enriching musical interpretations with his nuanced artistry.
Emmanuel Ceysson is also committed to harp education and outreach, serving as a professor at the Paris Conservatoire (Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris). He shares his expertise with aspiring harpists through masterclasses, workshops, and educational initiatives, inspiring the next generation of musicians with his passion for the harp and dedication to artistic excellence.
Through his recordings, which encompass solo albums, chamber music collaborations, and orchestral performances, Emmanuel Ceysson continues to showcase his remarkable talent and contribute to the harp’s prominence in classical music. His artistic achievements and influential presence in the music world affirm his status as one of the leading harpists of his generation.