The harp, with its ethereal sound and graceful design, has captivated audiences for centuries. From the haunting melodies of ancient traditions to modern interpretations that blend genres, the harp’s versatility shines through its illustrious history. In this article, we celebrate the top 15 harp players who have not only mastered this enchanting instrument but have also left an indelible mark on the world of music.
These artists, hailing from diverse backgrounds and eras, have pushed the boundaries of harp playing, showcasing its potential beyond classical realms into jazz, pop, and folk. Each player brings a unique style and perspective, transforming the harp into a vehicle for emotional expression and storytelling.
Join us as we explore the lives and legacies of these extraordinary musicians. From virtuosos who have graced concert halls to innovators who have redefined the instrument’s role, this list highlights the best of the best. Get ready to be inspired by the artistry and passion of these remarkable harpists, whose contributions have not only shaped the sound of the harp but also enriched the tapestry of global music.
1. Carlos Salzedo
Carlos Salzedo was a revolutionary harpist, composer, and educator who fundamentally changed the way the harp is played and understood. Born in France in 1885, Salzedo displayed prodigious talent from a young age, graduating from the Paris Conservatoire with top honors in both harp and piano. But it wasn’t just his technical ability that set him apart—it was his vision. Salzedo believed the harp was capable of far more than gentle arpeggios and background textures; he pushed its boundaries through groundbreaking techniques like percussive tapping, glissando harmonics, and rhythmic complexity. His compositions—highly expressive and often avant-garde—highlighted the instrument’s full sonic range. Beyond his artistry as a performer and composer, Salzedo was a devoted teacher who founded the Salzedo Harp Colony and the Salzedo School in the U.S., where he mentored a generation of students who would carry his innovations into the future. His method books and teaching legacy are still studied today. Salzedo’s contributions forever changed the harp’s role, both in solo and ensemble contexts. His bold approach, blending tradition with innovation, cemented his place as a true giant in the world of harp music and a guiding light for modern harpists.
2. Dorothy Ashby
Dorothy Ashby was a true pioneer—a jazz harpist who reimagined what the instrument could do and where it could belong. Born in 1932 in Detroit, Michigan, Ashby was classically trained but deeply influenced by the jazz world around her. At a time when the harp was rarely heard outside classical music, she boldly brought it into jazz clubs and recording studios, crafting a sound that was entirely her own. Blending bebop, soul, and world music influences, her music was both graceful and rhythmically rich. Albums like Afro-Harping and The Rubáiyát of Dorothy Ashby showcased her as an innovator, weaving the harp into grooves, improvisations, and layered compositions that were ahead of their time. Her pioneering spirit opened doors for future generations of musicians who saw the harp as an expressive, genre-crossing instrument. In addition to her solo work, Ashby collaborated with icons like Stevie Wonder and Bill Withers. Though underappreciated during her lifetime, she has since been embraced as a trailblazer, with her recordings sampled by hip-hop and R&B artists decades later. Dorothy Ashby’s music continues to resonate, a testament to her daring artistry and timeless influence on jazz and harp music alike.
3. Harpo Marx
Harpo Marx was more than a silent film icon—he was a remarkably talented harpist whose music added an unexpected layer of depth to his comedic persona. Born Adolph Marx in 1888, Harpo rose to fame as the silent, mischievous member of the legendary Marx Brothers comedy troupe. While his brothers delivered punchlines, Harpo communicated through wide-eyed expressions, slapstick antics, and, most famously, beautiful harp solos that provided moments of poetic calm amid the chaos. What many don’t realize is that Harpo was self-taught. After acquiring a harp with no formal training, he taught himself to play by instinct, developing a style that was lyrical, warm, and uniquely his. His performances in films like A Night at the Opera and Duck Soup introduced countless viewers to the harp in a new light—not as a stiff classical instrument, but as a source of joy, whimsy, and emotional resonance. Beyond the screen, Harpo was a serious and dedicated musician who respected the instrument deeply. He played for private audiences, including presidents and royalty, and his influence helped popularize the harp in mainstream entertainment. Harpo Marx’s blend of humor and heartfelt musicianship left a lasting mark that still charms audiences today.
4. Nicanor Zabaleta
Nicanor Zabaleta was a masterful Spanish harpist whose virtuosic playing and artistic vision helped elevate the harp to solo concert status in the classical world. Born in 1907 in San Sebastián, Spain, Zabaleta began his musical studies early and soon distinguished himself as a rare talent. He studied in Paris and Milan before launching an international career that would span over five decades. Zabaleta’s playing was marked by extraordinary clarity, precision, and expressiveness. He was equally comfortable performing Baroque masterpieces, Romantic showpieces, and contemporary works. In fact, many composers, including Joaquín Rodrigo and Darius Milhaud, wrote new music specifically for him—expanding the harp’s repertoire in exciting ways. Zabaleta’s global tours and extensive discography introduced countless audiences to the harp’s power and nuance. His interpretations of works by Bach and Handel remain benchmarks for harpists today. Not only a gifted performer, Zabaleta was also a passionate teacher, dedicating his later years to education and masterclasses. His artistry helped break the stereotype of the harp as merely an ethereal background instrument and reestablished it as a commanding solo voice in classical music. Nicanor Zabaleta’s legacy endures through his recordings, students, and the groundbreaking path he forged.
5. Mildred Dilling
Mildred Dilling was a true trailblazer—a woman who brought the harp to the world stage in a time when both the instrument and female soloists faced significant barriers. Born in 1895, Dilling enjoyed a career that spanned nearly seven decades, during which she performed for presidents, royalty, and captivated audiences across the globe. Known for her warmth, elegance, and formidable technique, she made the harp accessible and appealing to a broad audience. Dilling was not only a gifted performer but also a dedicated educator and passionate promoter of the harp. She gave thousands of concerts—often traveling with her own custom-built portable harp—and introduced the instrument to listeners who had never encountered it before. Through her popular radio programs, recordings, and extensive touring, she made the harp a household name in America. Dilling also taught many prominent harpists and compiled a widely used anthology of harp music, helping to preserve and expand the instrument’s repertoire. Her pioneering spirit and tireless advocacy broke gender and genre boundaries. Today, Mildred Dilling is remembered not only for her artistry but also for her role in shaping the harp’s place in 20th-century music and inspiring future generations of musicians.
6. Loreena McKennitt
Loreena McKennitt is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and harpist renowned for her mystical blend of Celtic, folk, and world music. Born in 1957, McKennitt has captivated listeners for decades with her haunting vocals and the ethereal beauty of her harp playing. Her music often draws inspiration from literature, history, and global cultures, transporting audiences to distant lands and ancient times. Albums like The Visit, The Mask and Mirror, and The Book of Secrets have become essential listening for fans of atmospheric, narrative-rich music. McKennitt plays a variety of instruments, but the harp holds a special place in her arrangements, providing a lush and shimmering backdrop to her poetic storytelling. Her work is marked by an uncommon depth, blending classical sophistication with a folk musician’s heart. She often performs with a range of traditional and global instruments, but it’s the harp that gives her sound its signature elegance. Beyond her music, McKennitt is also a philanthropist and cultural ambassador, deeply involved in supporting arts education and intercultural understanding. Her artistry has earned her a loyal global following, and her ability to make ancient traditions feel intimate and relevant today makes her one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary harp music.
7. Alice Coltrane
Alice Coltrane was a visionary musician who forever changed the landscape of jazz, spirituality, and harp music. Born in 1937, she was not only an accomplished pianist and organist but also a pioneering harpist who brought the instrument into realms it had rarely ventured before. After the death of her husband, legendary saxophonist John Coltrane, Alice embarked on a deeply spiritual musical path, blending Eastern mysticism, classical traditions, and free jazz. Her harp playing became a central voice in this journey. Albums like Journey in Satchidananda and Universal Consciousness showcase her unique harp style—serene, improvisational, and transcendent. Unlike traditional classical harpists, Coltrane used the harp as a vehicle for meditation and cosmic exploration, creating soundscapes that were as emotionally stirring as they were sonically adventurous. She also founded an ashram and recorded devotional music under the name Swamini Turiyasangitananda, further extending her musical reach. Her spiritual and sonic influence continues to ripple through generations of artists, from jazz improvisers to ambient and experimental musicians. Alice Coltrane proved that the harp could be more than delicate and ornamental—it could be a bold, spiritual instrument of healing and transformation.
8. Peter Roberts
Peter Roberts is a dynamic contemporary harpist celebrated for his versatility, engaging performances, and dedication to education. Known for his ability to seamlessly bridge classical, modern, and popular genres, Roberts has become a beloved figure in the harp world. Whether performing in concert halls, intimate venues, or academic settings, his passion for the harp shines through with every note. He has built a reputation for making the harp accessible and exciting to new audiences, often reimagining familiar melodies with a fresh approach or introducing listeners to lesser-known repertoire with enthusiasm and insight. As a teacher and mentor, Roberts is equally committed to nurturing the next generation of harpists. He frequently conducts masterclasses and workshops, encouraging students to explore the full potential of the instrument. His approachable demeanor, technical skill, and genuine love for music make him a favorite among both audiences and aspiring musicians. Beyond his teaching, Roberts continues to perform internationally, showcasing the harp’s versatility and expressive power. His work serves as a reminder that the harp is not just a historical instrument—it’s a living, evolving voice capable of telling new stories in every era.
9. Catrin Finch
Catrin Finch is one of the most celebrated harpists of her generation, known for her extraordinary technique, innovative spirit, and wide-ranging musical interests. Born in Wales in 1980, Finch was appointed Official Harpist to the Prince of Wales at just 20 years old, a role that helped elevate her international profile. But she didn’t stop at tradition—Finch has boldly explored a variety of genres, from classical and folk to world music and electronic collaborations. Her performances are deeply expressive, often pushing the boundaries of what audiences expect from the harp. Projects like her duo work with Senegalese kora player Seckou Keita have garnered critical acclaim, blending Welsh and West African traditions into something uniquely beautiful. Finch is also a respected composer and arranger, contributing fresh material to the harp repertoire and championing new music. Her concerts are known for their warmth, emotional depth, and the joy she brings to every stage. Whether playing a Bach concerto or an original composition, Catrin Finch reaffirms the harp’s power to inspire, connect, and evolve. Her fearless creativity and technical brilliance make her a standout figure not just in harp circles, but in the broader world of contemporary music.
10. Andreas Vollenweider
Andreas Vollenweider is a Swiss harpist and composer whose genre-defying music has captivated audiences worldwide for decades. Born in 1953 in Zurich, Vollenweider developed a passion for sound experimentation early on. Rather than follow the classical harp tradition, he carved out a distinctive path, electrifying the harp and blending it with world music, ambient, jazz, and new age influences. His breakthrough came in the 1980s with the album Down to the Moon, which earned him a Grammy Award and solidified his status as a pioneering voice in instrumental music. Vollenweider’s sound is immersive and atmospheric, often described as cinematic. He creates lush sonic landscapes that invite introspection and wonder, using the harp not just as a melody instrument, but as a tool for texture, rhythm, and emotion. His concerts are multisensory experiences that defy genre labels, appealing to classical music fans, ambient lovers, and beyond. Vollenweider’s willingness to innovate has brought the harp to entirely new audiences, expanding its possibilities far beyond traditional boundaries. In doing so, he’s not just made harp music more accessible—he’s made it essential listening for anyone seeking beauty, peace, and a sense of musical adventure.
11. Roslyn McClure
Roslyn McClure is a distinguished harpist known for her elegant touch, expressive interpretation, and dedication to both performance and pedagogy. Over the course of her career, she has developed a reputation for being a deeply musical artist—someone who brings both technical finesse and emotional clarity to everything she plays. Whether interpreting classical repertoire or performing contemporary pieces, McClure’s playing is marked by its warmth, precision, and lyrical quality. Her deep understanding of the harp’s sonic possibilities allows her to draw out rich colors and textures that resonate with audiences. As a teacher, McClure has mentored numerous students, helping them develop their craft and passion for music. Her calm, encouraging style of instruction has made her a beloved figure in harp education circles. In both studio and concert settings, she communicates a deep reverence for the harp’s tradition while remaining open to new and innovative works. McClure’s contribution to the harp community goes beyond performance—she has helped shape the next generation of harpists, ensuring the instrument continues to flourish. Her legacy is one of artistry, excellence, and a tireless commitment to sharing the joy of harp music with the world.
12. Kim Robertson
Kim Robertson is a cherished American harpist, composer, and arranger whose music bridges the gap between Celtic tradition and contemporary expression. Born in 1954, Robertson began her musical journey as a classical pianist before discovering the Celtic harp, an instrument that would become her lifelong passion. Known for her gentle touch and meditative playing style, she has created a vast body of work that soothes, uplifts, and transports listeners. Robertson’s arrangements of traditional Irish and Scottish melodies breathe new life into ancient tunes, and her original compositions carry a sense of timeless beauty. Her recordings—including albums like Tender Shepherd and Wind Shadows—are beloved for their serenity and elegance. In addition to performing and recording, she is a dedicated educator and has published numerous books and instructional materials that have helped make harp playing accessible to musicians of all levels. Robertson’s influence extends across generations and genres, as she continues to champion the harp as an instrument of both personal expression and cultural heritage. Her artistry is rooted in tradition but always open to innovation, making her one of the most respected and beloved figures in the modern harp world.
13. Janet Harbison
Janet Harbison is an Irish harpist, composer, and educator who has played a vital role in preserving and revitalizing the tradition of Irish harp music. Born in 1956, Harbison has dedicated her life to bringing the music of the ancient Gaelic harpers into the modern world, combining historical scholarship with passionate performance. A former All-Ireland Harp Champion, she has performed internationally and composed extensively for solo harp and ensembles. Her playing is deeply expressive, grounded in Irish cultural identity, and marked by rhythmic vitality and melodic grace. As a teacher, Harbison founded the Irish Harp Centre and the Harp Orchestra of Ireland, creating platforms for young harpists to flourish while engaging in a vibrant musical tradition. She has also published educational materials and arrangements, making traditional Irish music more accessible to learners around the globe. Harbison’s work as a composer and cultural ambassador has helped to redefine what it means to be an Irish harper in the 21st century. Through her performances, recordings, and teaching, she continues to inspire audiences and students alike, ensuring that the harp remains a central and celebrated voice in Ireland’s musical story.
14. Tanja Bechtler
Tanja Bechtler is a versatile and boundary-pushing harpist whose work spans classical, jazz, and world music genres. With a strong foundation in classical technique, she brings a creative and open-minded approach to her artistry, frequently collaborating with musicians from different backgrounds to explore new musical landscapes. Bechtler’s performances are marked by their elegance, warmth, and a fearless sense of experimentation. Her interest in blending genres has led her to reinterpret classical repertoire with a contemporary twist and to introduce jazz-influenced phrasing into her harp playing. This adventurous spirit has earned her acclaim from audiences who appreciate both tradition and innovation. In addition to performing, Bechtler is a dedicated music educator, sharing her passion through private instruction and community outreach. She emphasizes the importance of curiosity, adaptability, and emotional connection in her teaching philosophy. Whether she’s performing in a concert hall or a more intimate setting, Bechtler’s presence is both commanding and inviting. She continues to push the boundaries of what the harp can do while inspiring others to explore its vast potential. Her musical voice is uniquely her own—deeply expressive, richly textured, and always evolving.
15. Ann Hobson Pilot
Ann Hobson Pilot is a groundbreaking harpist whose career has broken barriers and inspired generations. Born in 1939, she became the first African-American principal harpist in a major American orchestra when she was appointed to the Boston Symphony Orchestra—a role she held with distinction for nearly three decades. Her journey to that prestigious position was marked by perseverance, excellence, and trailblazing artistry. Hobson Pilot’s playing is known for its radiant tone, emotional depth, and impeccable technique. She has performed as a soloist with major orchestras and appeared on international stages, earning acclaim for her interpretations of classical harp repertoire. In addition to her performing career, she is a passionate educator and advocate for diversity in classical music. Her legacy is not only in her recordings and performances but also in the doors she opened for future generations of harpists of color. Through masterclasses, mentoring, and outreach programs, Hobson Pilot continues to encourage young musicians to pursue their dreams. She remains a revered figure in the harp world—an artist of grace and substance whose contributions to music extend far beyond the stage.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
