Following the hire of Sergio Ruiz as director of the Glenn Korff School of Music, University of Nebraska–Lincoln has established a new harp program with Mary Bircher as harp faculty. “I am honored and thrilled to have the opportunity to build a harp department at the University of Nebraska,” says Bircher. “The Glenn Korff School of Music is an outstanding music school with a passionate, supportive, and nurturing faculty, and I am proud to be a part of this wonderful group of music educators.”
As principal harpist with the Omaha Symphony, Bircher is passionate about large ensembles repertoire, sharing that Nebraska’s ensemble program is “robust.” Harp students perform with several orchestras, wind ensemble, band, opera, and various vocal groups. “My vision for the harp program at Nebraska is to develop a welcoming harp studio, with a culture of dedication, integrity, leadership and passion, and to all have fun together. The ultimate goal is the development of musicians who are comfortable performing with poise and confidence in a myriad of situations, enriching the lives of themselves and others through effective musical communication.”
In the past year, the school has acquired two new Lyon & Healy pedal harps and has hosted master classes with Bridget Kibbey and Ann Hobson Pilot. Upcoming guest artists include Elizabeth Richter and Duo Scorpio. For more information, visit arts.unl.edu/music.
