Born and raised near Cleveland, Diane Evans began her musical journey on the piano at age 3. When she took up piano and art studies at the National Music Camp at Interlochen, Michigan, she also signed up for a beginning harp class, having been fascinated by a harpist she’d seen on television. She fell in love with the instrument and began working with renowned Cleveland Orchestra harpist Alice Chalifoux, her mentor at Oberlin.

Evans served as Principal Harp of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra for more than 40 years, after tenures with the Toledo and Omaha symphonies. She has performed a wide range of repertoire and appeared many times as concerto soloist, chamber musician, and recitalist.

Harp study at Oberlin is individually tailored to ensure each student is prepared to meet the challenges of today’s constantly evolving musical landscape.

With attentive and supportive mentorship, students' mastery of solo, chamber and orchestral repertoire will be underpinned by comprehensive study of technique, interpretation, ensemble skills, theory, process and pedagogy. Beginning in a student's first semester, they have opportunities to perform in a variety of settings, including with the conservatory’s large ensembles, which emphasize a broad range of programming from the 18th century through today.

Students also have freedom, through conservatory courses, to explore areas such as World Musics, jazz, composition, collaboration, entrepreneurship, and performance psychology. Oberlin’s structure encourages access to classes through the College of Arts and Sciences. These academic disciplines offer breadth of knowledge and experience that will help students form their unique path and bring their artistic projects to fruition.

Oberlin maintains ten pedal harps for student use. Students may bring their own instrument, which will be kept secure.

Sample Courses:
Harp Majors Seminar
Internalizing Rhythms
Introduction to Music Research and Writing
Community Engagement in Schools
Arts Management I and II