Higher Ed Harp Directory 2023

Want to know more about pursuing harp in college? See the article extra College Teachers Answer Your College Questions in this issue.

The 2023 edition of our college harp directory is compiled from our online College Harp Program Directory. Check the online directory for contact info, updates, or to add your own program.

Appalachian State University

Boone, N.C.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Amber Joy Koeppen

Degrees offered: B.M., B.M.E., M.M., Perf. Dip. or Cert., Prof. Studies Cert., B.S. in Music Industry Studies, B.M. Therapy, M.M. Therapy

Harp students last year: 3

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Students are provided with performance opportunities as soloists, collaborators, recording artists, and more, providing them with the experience they need in any musical endeavor at a professional level. With numerous large ensembles, chamber music, opera productions, competitions, concert tours, jobs, and faculty with active and international performing experience, Appalachian State offers a spectrum of opportunities in which students can pursue the many facets of the musical arts.

Aquinas College

Grand Rapids, Mich.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Martha Waldvogel-Warren

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 0

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Aquinas College offers one-on-one instruction to majors and non-majors with performance opportunities in small chamber groups.

Arizona State University

Tempe, Ariz.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Charles W Lynch III

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.A., M.M.E., D.M.A., PhD

Harp students last year: 7

Number of school harps: 4

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The School of Music, Dance & Theatre at Arizona State University offers a music program designed to inspire creativity. A partnership with Mesa Public Schools Music Education offers graduate students intensive pedagogical and administrative experience working with the largest public school harp program in the country. A Southwest school to earn a degree in harp performance, music education or music therapy.

Augsburg College

Minneapolis, Minn.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Andrea Stern

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A.

Harp students last year: 0

Number of school harps: 0

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes orchestra and chamber music in a small, friendly, and individualized setting.

Augustana College

Rock Island, Ill.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Erin Freund

Degrees offered: B.A.

Harp students last year: 3

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes orchestra, symphonic band, concert band, chamber music, vocal ensemble accompanying, solo recitals, tours
with large ensembles (regional, national, and international), harp pedagogy, harp literature, and harp ensemble. This program offers a supportive atmosphere, strong academics, and a variety of ensemble opportunities.

Austin Peay State University

Clarksville, Tenn.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Claire Burney

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 0

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The harp department at APSU is a friendly, supportive, and encouraging environment where students will learn standard solo and orchestral repertoire to prepare them for any career in music. Students have many performance opportunities among the Symphony Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and chamber groups. Scholarships are available.

Baldwin Wallace University Conservatory of Music

Berea, Ohio

Type of school: Conservatory

Harp instructor: Jody Guinn

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 5

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Weekly lessons at Baldwin Wallace University’s Conservatory of Music offer a thorough examination and study of standard, practical harp repertoire throughout the four-year program. Studio classes include the study of orchestral repertoire, A Ceremony of Carols and the complete Nutcracker Ballet, as well as opportunities to perform for colleagues. Many orchestral and chamber music opportunities are also available.

Ball State University

Muncie, Ind.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Joanne King

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.A., Artist Dip. or Cert., Prof. Studies Cert.

Harp students last year: 5

Number of school harps: 7

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The harp program includes a weekly studio class, harp pedagogy, harp ensemble, orchestral repertoire, chamber music, symphony orchestra, opera orchestra, wind ensemble, symphony band, and new music ensemble. Scholarships are available.

Bard College Conservatory of Music

Annandale on Hudson, N.Y.

Type of school: Conservatory

Harp instructors: Sara Cutler, Bridget Kibbey

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., M.M., Perf. Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The mission of the Bard Conservatory is to provide the best possible preparation for a person dedicated to a life immersed in the creation and performance of music. The harp program, led by harpists Sara Cutler and Bridget Kibbey, offers students performance opportunities in the Conservatory Orchestra, chamber music, harp class, and orchestral harp class.

Berklee College of Music

Boston, Mass.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Felice Pomeranz (head of harp program)

Degrees offered: B.M., M.M., Artist Dip. or Cert., Perf. Dip. or Cert., Prof. Studies Cert.

Harp students last year: 8

Number of school harps: 6

Space provided for personal harps: No

Program details: Specific degrees include B.M. in Performance, Music Therapy, Music Production/Engineering, Electronic Production
and Design, Professional Music and M.M. in Jazz through the prestigious Berklee Global Jazz Institute. Program includes improvisation orchestra, symphony orchestra, Broadway orchestra, world string ensemble, video game orchestra, chamber music, jazz groups, Berklee Global Jazz Institute, jazz harp ensemble, and internships. Now offering improvisation instruction for guzheng players.

Biola University

La Mirada, Calif.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Mindy Ball

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 0

Number of school harps: 0

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes solo, orchestra, chamber music, harp ensemble, symphonic winds, and opera.

Bob Jones University

Greenville, S.C.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Emily Waggoner

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M.

Harp students last year: 5

Number of school harps: 6

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes chamber harp ensemble, orchestra, opera, band, harp pedagogy and literature classes, harp orchestral literature classes, performance classes, choral and harp performances, soloist with orchestra opportunities, competitions, music harmony, analysis and literature courses, and private lessons. The program is for students who desire to excel academically and musically and grow spiritually.

Brigham Young University

Provo, Utah

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Nicole Brubaker Brady

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 40

Number of school harps: 10

Space provided for personal harps: No

Program details: The BYU harp program aims to provide the opportunity to study with world-class musicians while participating in a wide range of performance opportunities. Ensembles include four orchestras, three bands, several choirs; jazz, contemporary, and chamber groups along with international concert tours. Harp courses include pedagogy, literature, orchestral excerpts, arranging, jazz, and harp ensemble (BYU Resonance). Around 40 harpists attend BYU and participate in the major and minor programs.

California Institute of the Arts

Santa Clarita, Calif.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Alison Bjorkedal

Degrees offered: M.F.A., D.M.A.

Harp students last year: 4

Number of school harps: 3

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The Herb Alpert School of Music at CalArts offers rigorous training in a variety of musical styles and cultures. The school offers the opportunity to expand students’ artistic and cultural horizons and develop an innovative creative vision, through a stylistically open approach to musical creativity. Although no harp minor is offered, students can take “minor” lessons each term to continue their journey or to explore a new instrument.

California State University Los Angeles

Los Angeles, Calif.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Linda-Rose Hembreiker

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.A.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Studying music at California State University, Los Angeles is in the midst of the Southern California music scene. Nearby are the world famous Walt Disney Concert Hall, the LA Music Center, recording studios, theme parks, and numerous other music performance venues where students and graduates frequently find opportunities for professional growth during their studies or employment after graduation. Scholarships available.

Carleton College

Northfield, Minn.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Elinor Niemisto

Degrees offered: B.A.

Harp students last year: 3 

Number of school harps: 3

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: This program is for students who plan to study a liberal arts curriculum that includes music. Includes orchestra, band, chamber music, folk instruments, private lessons on all orchestra instruments and Chinese instruments, and harp ensemble.

Centre College

Danville, Ky.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Elaine Humphreys Cook

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A.

Harp students last year: 5

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Opportunity for a variety of performance experiences including harp ensemble, orchestra, wind symphony, chamber music, African Drum Ensemble, Ky. Ensemble, jazz, pedagogy and other World Music ensembles. Repertoire used to support relaxed technique for 

facility and understanding music from aspects of meter and rhythm, form, harmony, melody, style, and historic perspective. All students have at least one semester in another country through the exchange program. 

Chapman University

Orange, Calif.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Mindy Ball

Degrees offered: B.M., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 1

Number of school harps: 0

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes solo, orchestra, chamber music, opera, ballet, harp ensemble, and touring.

Chicago College of Performing Arts, Roosevelt University

Chicago, Ill.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Lynn Williams

Degrees offered: B.M., M.M., Artist Dip. or Cert., Perf. Dip. or Cert., Prof. Studies Cert.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 4

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: At CCPA, Music Conservatory students are given the opportunity to work with faculty members who are members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Lyric Opera of Chicago. With an average studio size of two, students receive individual attention and opportunities to harbor professional connections and establish themselves in the heart of the Chicago arts scene. The Orchestral Studies program trains students to land jobs in the competitive world of auditions.

Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) 

Cincinnati, Ohio

Type of school: Conservatory

Harp instructors: Gillian Benet Sella, Jacquelyn Davis

Degrees offered: B.M., B.M.E., M.M., M.M.E., D.M.A., Artist Dip. or Cert., Perf. Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 8

Number of school harps: 5

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes weekly harp masterclass, weekly private lesson with Gillian Benet Sella, additional weekly lesson for undergrads with a Harp Grad Assistant, separate weekly pedagogy class during degree program. Many solo, orchestral, chamber music, and jazz performances, plus study of harp literature and orchestra repertoire. In addition to CCM’s orchestra, wind and chamber ensembles, CCM stages full productions of professional-level operas, ballets, and musicals. 

Cleveland Institute of Music

Cleveland, Ohio

Type of school: Conservatory

Harp instructor: Yolanda Kondonassis 

Degrees offered: B.M., M.M., D.M.A., Artist Dip. or Cert., Prof. Studies Cert.

Harp students last year: 7

Number of school harps: 6

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes weekly private lessons with Yolanda Kondonassis, orchestra, contemporary music ensemble, chamber music, pedagogy, harp classes, and orchestral classes. This program is for students who are very serious about a career in harp performance and are looking for an intense pre-professional training and experience.

College of Charleston

Charleston, S.C.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Abigail Kent

Degrees offered: B.A., Artist Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 1

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: College of Charleston has two unique pathways in harp—traditional Celtic lever harp and classical pedal harp. Located in the middle of historic downtown Charleston, South Carolina. The College of Charleston offers a liberal arts education with musical training in both music majors and minors, as well as an Artist Certificate in Performance.

College of Staten Island

Staten Island, N.Y.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Chelsea Lane

Degrees offered: B.A.

Harp students last year: 1

Number of school harps: 0

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The music major provides training in music theory, musicianship, and music history. Harp students receive weekly lessons and have the option of participating in recitals, chamber ensembles, and orchestra.

College of William and Mary

Williamsburg, Va.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Anastasia Jellison

Degrees offered: B.A.

Harp students last year: 13

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: No

Program details: College of William and Mary is located in historic Williamsburg, Virginia. Private lessons are given once a week for a total of 12 lessons per semester. Students can register for 25-minute or 50-minute lessons. Students can also register for orchestra and chamber music.

Colorado College 

Colorado Springs, Colo.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Jenna Hunt

Degrees offered: B.M.

Harp students last year: 3

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The Music Department at Colorado College strives to be an all-inclusive place where musicians of all interests and skills can come to participate in music activities. No audition is required to enter the department, and while it offers a course of study for both music majors and minors, all students at Colorado College are eligible to attend classes and sign-up for ensembles.

Colorado State University

Fort Collins, Colo.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Kathryn Harms

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.M.E.

Harp students last year: 1

Number of school harps:

Space provided for personal harps: 

Program details: The Colorado State University Harp Studio aims to foster a supportive environment with ample personalized attention for undergraduate and graduate students. Every harp student receives instruction and personalized support based on their degree plan and professional goals.

Performance opportunities include orchestra, opera, wind symphony, and chamber music. In addition to performance, composition, and education degrees, a music therapy program is also offered.

Columbus State University

Columbus, Ga.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Susan Bennett Brady

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.A., M.F.A., M.M.E., Artist Dip. or Cert., Perf. Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 3

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Harp at CSU’s Schwob School of Music provides many performance opportunities. Susan Brady teaches all aspects of harp playing to meet students’ needs and potential, creating their niche in the world as working professionals. Included are harp lessons, harp ensemble, orchestra excerpts, studio, pedagogy, literature classes, chamber coaching. orchestra, jazz, chamber music, contemporary music ensemble, wind ensemble, chorus, opera, and visiting artist masterclasses/lectures.

DePaul University 

Chicago, Ill.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Julia Coronelli

Degrees offered: B.M., M.M., Perf. Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 0

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: DePaul teaches what it takes to be in the next generation of modern harpists in today’s world, what it takes to make auditions and performances an enjoyable and rewarding experience, and how to land the orchestral job. Equal focus on solo, chamber music, and orchestral rep. There is a new music building with state-of-the-art concert and recital halls and two new harps.

Dickinson College

Carlisle, Penn.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Ruth Hunter

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 4

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program includes orchestra, band and chamber music opportunities, solo repertoire, theory, and private  lessons. This program is for students who would like to pursue another major but improve skills and further their musical education. Students have the ability to participate in any ensemble without being a music major or minor.

Duke University

Durham, N.C. 

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Laura Byrne

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A.

Harp students last year: 4

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Duke harp students can expect intensive study of harp repertoire, with special emphasis on strong technique with relaxation, musical interpretation and expression, and nurturing successful performance skills. Students are guided through a variety of music in harp literature with special attention to serious study and mastery of significant compositions in the harp repertoire. Duke Symphony Orchestra and Duke Wind Ensemble opportunities, Chamber music opportunities are available, as well as opportunities to perform in the Chinese Music Ensemble and in New Music Ensembles.

Eastman School of Music

Rochester, N.Y.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Kathleen Bride

Degrees offered: B.M., M.M., D.M.A.

Harp students last year: 12

Number of school harps: 7

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Eastman is a community of artists, performers, composers, and scholars whose stated commitment is preparing students for meaningful lives in music. Offerings Include: orchestra, wind ensemble, opera orchestra, contemporary ensembles, chamber music, harp pedagogy, harp technique, private lessons, jazz theory, and jazz arranging.

Emory University

Atlanta, Ga.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Elisabeth Remy Johnson

Degrees offered: B.A.

Harp students last year: 3

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: This program includes orchestra, symphonic band, and chamber music. Double majors are welcome participants in the studio.

Florida State University

Tallahassee, Fla.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: 

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.A., M.M.E., D.M.A., Ph.D.

Harp students last year: 5

Number of school harps: 9

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: FSU College of Music is one of the largest and most comprehensive collegiate music programs in the country. The school presents over 500 concerts and recitals per year and offers 40-plus ensembles. Performance opportunities include: orchestras, opera orchestra, wind orchestra, bands, chamber music, early music, new music, and world music. Degree programs include: performance, music education, music therapy, composition, commercial music, music theory.

Furman University

Greenville County, S.C. 

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Anita Burroughs-Price

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The harp program includes performance in harp ensemble, chamber music, orchestra, band, wind ensemble, and pit orchestra for musical theater and opera. Studio class includes training in major repertoire, pedagogy, arranging, freelancing, and an introduction to the use of the harp in therapeutic settings.

Georgia State University

Atlanta, Ga.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Elisabeth Remy Johnson

Degrees offered: B.A., M.M.

Harp students last year: 1

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: includes orchestra, symphonic band, opera, chamber music, pedagogy.

George Mason University

Fairfax, Va.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Adriana Horne

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.M.E., D.M.A., PhD

Harp students last year: 4

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Located close to the nation’s capital, George Mason University students study with music faculty and have the opportunity to pursue other academic interests, including a double major in another field.

Glenn Gould School

Toronto, Ont. (Canada)

Type of school: Conservatory

Harp instructor: Judy Loman, Angela Schwarzkopf, Heidi Bearcroft

Degrees offered: B.M., Perf. Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 3

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Weekly private lessons with Judy Loman (1.5 hours), Teaching Methodology for Harp and Harp Literature classes with Angela Schwarzkopf, Orchestral Repertoire for Harp with Toronto Symphony Orchestra principal harpist Heidi Bearcrof. Performance opportunities in orchestra, opera, and with various chamber ensembles. This program is designed for students who would like a performance career with the harp.

Guilford College

Greensboro, N.C.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Grace Ludtke

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Guilford College is a private liberal arts college in Greensboro, N.C., with a diverse artistic community. The college offers a four-year undergraduate degree program with a major/minor in music and private lessons for non-majors. High school students in the Early College at Guilford can take harp lessons and music classes for college credit in the 11th and 12th grade. A concert pedal harp is available for enrolled students to use for lessons, private practice, and ensembles.

Gustavus Adolphus College

St Peter, Minn.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Phala Tracy

Degrees offered: B.A.

Harp students last year: 1

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Harpists at Gustavus, have the opportunity to grow technically, musically and personally through the study of their instrument. The program  focuses on building the strong, relaxed technique required to play the harp effectively (facility, clarity, strength, control, endurance) as well as intensity of listening required to play the harp beautifully (phrasing, dynamics, tone, momentum, character). Through all of the pieces studied, students work toward a more comprehensive understanding of music as a language, exploring rhythm, pitch, melody harmony, and form. Gustavus harp students are encouraged to explore arranging music themselves, with plenty of guidance as needed.

Hope College

Holland, Mich.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Martha Waldvogel-Warren

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 0

Number of school harps: 3

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: includes pedal and lever harp instruction, orchestra, band, jazz ensemble, harp ensemble. Program is for students who seek involved and professional one-on-one study in many disciplines and styles of music.

Indiana University

Bloomington, Ind.

Type of school: University

Harp instructors: Elzbieta Szmyt, Sarah Bullen, Fan-Fen Tai

Degrees offered: B.M., B.M.E., M.M., M.M.E., D.M.A., Artist Dip. or Cert., Perf. Dip. or Cert., B.S. with an Outside Field

Harp students last year: 26

Number of school harps: 13

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The IU Jacobs School of Music Harp Department is one of the largest in the world. It welcomes harp majors, harp elective students, pre-college and adult harpists. The program prepares students for a career as a professional harpist by offering individual lessons, master classes, chamber music, orchestra classes, harp ensemble, pedagogy and harp literature classes. Harp students at Jacobs have the opportunity to work and collaborate with world class faculty members and visiting artists.

James Madison University

Harrisonburg, Va.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Anastasia Pike

Degrees offered: B.M., M.M., D.M.A.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Harpists studying at James Madison University receive a stellar education under the direction of world-class academic and performance faculty. JMU offers the Bachelor of Music, Master of Music, and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees.

Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw, Ga.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Elisabeth Remy Johnson

Degrees offered: B.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 1

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes orchestra, wind ensemble, chamber music. Music Education majors are welcome participants in the studio.

Lakehead University

Thunder Bay, Ont. (Canada)

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Teresa Suen-Campbell

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., Artist Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 1

Number of school harps: 0

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Located in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Lakehead University provides a comprehensive music program in a supportive learning environment. It has a long association with Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra, which provides outstanding mentorship opportunities for students. Harp studies include weekly lessons, studio classes, chamber ensembles and guest artist masterclasses. The program gives equal emphasis on solo, chamber, and orchestral repertoire. Lessons will be conducted both online and in person.

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, Penn.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Andrea Wittchen

Degrees offered: B.A.

Harp students last year: 0

Number of school harps: 0

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Lehigh University’s music program provides an opportunity for the college student who wants to pursue serious music study along with another major. The program offers private harp instruction, performance opportunities in orchestra, wind ensemble, small ensembles, accompanying choral groups, and on and off-campus solo performances. Ensembles perform advanced level repertoire as well as new music by Lehigh faculty and student composers in on-campus performance venues.

Liberty University

Lynchburg, Va.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Kristin Szandzik

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.M.E.

Harp students last year: 7

Number of school harps: 0

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Liberty University’s School of Music provides a blend of traditional and contemporary environments for harpists to grow and explore their musical giftings. Collaborative opportunities include the symphony orchestra, wind symphony, worship band groups, and more. Weekly lessons offered in 30-minute and 60-minute increments according to skill level and interest. Students participate in several studio classes throughout the semester in addition to weekly lessons.

Luther College

Decorah, Iowa

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Amy Nam

Degrees offered: B.A.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 3

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Music scholarships are available regardless of major. Harp students prepare for performances with choir, orchestra, chamber ensemble, harp ensemble, band, Christmas at Luther, as well as national and international tours. Every four years students have the opportunity to go on tour in Vienna with the Luther College Symphony Orchestra. Music theory, ear-training, an artistic focus in harp repertoire and history, as well as technique training are taught in lessons and in harp class.

Lynn Conservatory

Boca Raton, Fla.

Type of school: Conservatory

Harp instructor: Deborah Fleisher

Degrees offered: B.M., M.M., Artist Dip. or Cert., Perf. Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 1

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: A full-scholarship program focusing on orchestra and chamber music. A small student body that emphasizes  individual attention.

Duquesne University 

Pittsburgh, Penn.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Gretchen Van Hoesen

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., Artist Dip. or Cert., B.M. Therapy, B.M. Ministry, B.M. Technology, M.M. Therapy

Harp students last year: 0

Number of school harps: 3

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The Mary Pappert School of Music at Duquesne University if for students interested in Music Education, Performance, Music Technology, Music Therapy, Composition, Jazz, or Music Ministry. The school focuses on connecting historical practices with modern methods, blending traditional with current technology, and enabling each student to explore their own artist, creativity, and ingenuity. 

Mercer University

Macon, Ga.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Calista Anne Koch

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.A., B.M.E., M.M.

Harp students last year: 5

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The Townsend School of Music at Mercer University offers a variety of majors and minors for harp students, and includes pedagogy, chamber music, jazz ensemble, chorus, wind ensemble, harp ensemble, other many other ensembles.

Messiah University

Mechanicsburg, Penn.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Ruth Hunter

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 0

Number of school harps: 0

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: This program is for students who are looking for a Christian liberal arts environment. There are many performing opportunities. Program includes orchestra, band, chamber music, solo repertoire, theory, and private lessons.

Metropolitan State
University of Denver

Denver, Colo.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Jenna Hunt

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The Department of Music at MSU Denver seeks to elevate a student’s musicianship so they can turn their passion into a successful career. Whether a student chooses to pursue performance, composition, or music education, the school’s curriculum helps prepare the musician for a modern career in music.

Michigan State University

Lansing, Mich.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Cheryl Losey Feder

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.A., M.M.E., D.M.A., Perf. Dip. or Cert., Specialist Deg.

Harp students last year: 5

Number of school harps: 5

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The MSU Harp Department is designed to foster innovation and creativity while helping every student achieve professional excellence. With plentiful ensemble and performance experience in a brand-new facility, harpists will study solo repertoire, orchestra literature, education, and entrepreneurship.

Montclair State University

Montclair, N.J.

Type of school: University

Harp instructors: Kathryn Andrews, André Tarantiles

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.A., B.M.E., M.M., Artist Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 0

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The Montclair State University John J. Cali School of Music harp program offers private lessons and performance opportunities with the orchestra, opera, musical theater productions, wind symphony, chamber groups, and many other ensembles.

Moravian University

Bethlehem, Penn.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Andrea Wittchen

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A.

Harp students last year: 0

Number of school harps: 0

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Moravian College’s music program provides an opportunity for the college student who wants to pursue either a harp performance or a music education path. The program offers private harp instruction, performance opportunities in orchestra, wind ensemble, Celtic ensemble, accompanying choral groups, and on and off-campus solo performances. Ensembles perform in modern facilities, some of which are tucked into restored, historic Colonial-era buildings.

Nashville State Community College

Nashville, Tenn.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Phyllis Taylor Sparks

Degrees offered: Perf. Dip. or Cert., Prof. Studies Cert.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 0

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Applied harp private lesson instruction via classroom or ZOOM. Perfect program for the non-traditional student of any age.

New England Conservatory

Boston, Mass.

Type of school: Conservatory

Harp instructor: Jessica Zhou

Degrees offered: B.M., M.M., D.M.A., Artist Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 6

Number of school harps: 11

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes studio, orchestra, music theory, music history, harp repertoire, and chamber music.

Northern Illinois University

Dekalb, Ill.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Faye Seeman

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., M.M., Perf. Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: This program is for students who want a diverse and eclectic offering of styles of music. Program includes orchestra, wind ensemble, jazz ensemble, band, world music ensemble, new music ensemble, and small chamber ensembles.

Northern Kentucky University

Highland Heights, Ky.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Joseph Rebman

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 3

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Northern Kentucky University is located in the greater Cincinnati area. This is a small, undergraduate-only program, so students have opportunities without the competition of high-level graduate students. Harp faculty Joseph Rebman also directs the SCPA harp program, an arts magnet public school with 25-plus students enrolled in daily harp-ensemble classes, making harp pedagogy a major topic in Rebman’s teaching.

Northwestern University

Evanston, Ill.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Lynn Williams

Degrees offered: B.M., B.M.E., M.M., D.M.A., Ph.D.

Harp students last year: 7

Number of school harps: 6

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The Bienen School of Music at Northwestern touts their facility, faculty and training for the 21st century. Students participate in ensembles including Symphony Orchestra, Contemporary Music Ensemble, Opera, and Harp Ensemble. Harp-specific studies include weekly private lessons, studio class, pedagogy, advanced study of orchestral, opera and ballet literature, harp ensemble, and guest artist masterclasses. 

Oberlin College and Conservatory

Oberlin, Ohio

Type of school: Conservatory

Harp instructor: Diane Evans

Degrees offered: B.M.

Harp students last year: 4

Number of school harps: 10

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Oberlin’s completely undergraduate harp program features professional music training and liberal arts education. Through private instruction, harpists gain a thorough development of technique, style, musicianship, and pedagogy. Performing opportunities from day one include large ensembles and chamber music groups. Students are encouraged to develop entrepreneurial and leadership skills.

Occidental College

Los Angeles, Calif.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Alison Bjorkedal

Degrees offered: B.A.

Harp students last year: 3

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: As the only liberal arts college in the heart of Los Angeles, Oxy touts access to the city.’s vibrant music scene. With its liberal arts curriculum, majoring in music enables students to pursue music professionally or begin a career in a wide variety of other fields. Lessons and ensemble opportunities available for non-majors and music minors.

The Ohio State University 

Columbus, Ohio

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Jeanne Norton

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 4

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes orchestra, opera orchestra, freshman orchestra, community orchestra, chamber music, ensemble, wind symphony, and symphonic band.

Oklahoma City University

Oklahoma City, Okla.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Emily Duncan

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.M.E.

Harp students last year: 5

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Oklahoma City University’s harp program aims to foster a creative environment that encourages exploration and collaboration. Along with solo repertoire, harp students have opportunities to perform with various ensembles, including the university orchestra, wind ensembles, chamber ensembles, opera, and musical theatre, and harp ensemble. The close-knit studio is encouraged to create a community of harpists eager to learn from and support each other. Scholarships and financial aid available.

Pasadena City College

Pasadena, Calif.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Alison Bjorkedal

Degrees offered: A.A.

Harp students last year: 0

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: No

Program details: Pasadena City College is number one in awarding Associate Degrees for transfer in Southern California. The student body is supported by career and transfer centers, clubs, tutoring centers and more. Study on the school’s pedal harp with a Grammy Award-winning harp teacher in a new Performing Arts center loaded with amenities.

Peabody Conservatory at Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, Md.

Type of school: Conservatory

Harp instructor: June Han

Degrees offered: B.M., M.M., D.M.A., Artist Dip. or Cert., Perf. Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 0

Number of school harps: 12

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes Symphony Orchestra, Concert Orchestra, Conductor’s Repertory Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Opera Orchestra, Chamber Music, Harp Maintenance, Jazz, Early Music, Harp Pedagogy, HarpAdventures Outreach (Pedagogy Lab). There is a M.M. in Harp Performance/Harp Pedagogy option. There is performance seminar, masterclasses, an off-campus monthly department recital series, other area performance opportunities; and chamber music and cross-disciplinary projects encouraged. 

Point Loma Nazarene University

San Diego, Calif.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Julie Smith Phillips

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 0

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: PLNU offers musical training while supporting a student’s education in a wholesome, Christian setting. Includes opportunities to explore music performance, music education, composition, commercial music, or many other fields in Southern California. Ensembles include symphony orchestra, ensemble, choir, and more. Faculty instructor Julie Phillips serves as Principal Harp for the San Diego Symphony and teaches majors and minors in weekly private lessons.

Pomona College

Claremont, Calif.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Alison Bjorkedal

Degrees offered: B.A.

Harp students last year: 10

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Consistently ranked in the top 10 national liberal arts colleges by US News, Pomona College is part of the Claremont Consortium with a high faculty to student ratio and opportunities for students to explore and build their interests and talents.

Sacred Heart University

Fairfield, Conn.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Wendy Kerner

Degrees offered: B.A., B.M.A., M.A.

Harp students last year: 1

Number of school harps: 0

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: SHU aims to be a caring community and has a sister school in Ireland. SHU’s faculty customizes an educational and musical plan based on each student’s skill level and interests. Music majors may concentrate on music performance or production. You can earn a B.A. in music or a minor in music. Music majors interested in music education can earn a B.A. in music, a minor in music education, or pursue the Master of Arts in Teaching program which includes Connecticut teaching certification.

Sam Houston State University

Huntsville, Texas

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Susanna Wang

Degrees offered: B.M., B.M.E., M.M., Artist Dip. or Cert., Perf. Dip. or Cert., Specialist Deg.

Harp students last year: 3

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: In addition to lessons that seek to propel technical and musical progress through varied repertoire, the weekly interactive harp class delves into harp ensemble, history, and pedagogy. Performance opportunities include multiple large ensembles, harp ensemble, chamber music, and studio performances in both the university and the community. This program trains students to create entrepreneurial harp careers.

San Francisco Conservatory of Music

San Francisco, Calif.

Type of school: Conservatory

Harp instructors: Emmanuel Ceysson, Jennifer Ellis

Degrees offered: B.M., M.M., Prof. Studies Cert.

Harp students last year: 5

Number of school harps: 5

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The San Francisco Conservatory of Music’s Harp Department comprises fewer than five students under the instruction of Emmanuel Ceysson and Jennifer Ellis. At SFCM, students have opportunities to perform with resident ensembles, including the Conservatory Orchestra, the Historical Performance program, small and large chamber ensembles, and Technology and Applied Composition recording sessions, as well as enter into the biannual Harp Concerto Competition.

San Francisco State University

San Francisco, Calif.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Karen Gottlieb

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., M.M., M.A.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: This program focuses on a collaboration with the faculty to create a student’s own program within a standard music program. Opportunities include orchestra, choral, chamber music, jazz, world music, pedagogy, composition, electronic music, music for films, and music education. Of importance, the music department is focused on being highly collaborative and eager to work with talented and highly motivated students that bring a unique and interesting focus to being a harpist in today’s world.

Shenandoah Conservatory at Shenandoah University

Winchester, Va. 

Type of school: Conservatory

Harp instructor: Lynnelle Ediger

Degrees offered: B.M., B.M.E., M.M., M.M.E., D.M.A., Artist Dip. or Cert., Prof. Studies Cert.

Harp students last year: 3

Number of school harps: 4

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Offering bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral degrees, and artist diplomas, harpists have performance opportunities with the conservatory’s orchestra, opera, wind ensemble, and chamber music ensembles, as well as solo experiences. The program includes weekly lessons, studio, and pedagogy classes with faculty invested.

St. Mary’s College of Maryland

Saint Marys City, Md.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Rebecca Anstine Smith

Degrees offered: B.A.

Harp students last year: 0

Number of school harps: 0

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The Music Department at St. Mary’s offers preparation for continued music study. There are numerous opportunities for harp students whether they are majors, minors, or simply enrolled in private lessons. All of the ensembles, performance opportunities and courses in the music department are open to all.

St. Olaf College

Northfield, Minn.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Rachel Brandwein

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 5

Number of school harps: 4

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: St. Olaf’s music program includes two full orchestras, two concert bands, seven choirs, chamber music, harp ensemble, jazz, early music, theory, music history, pedagogy, and composition courses, and music education accreditation. Each ambassador ensemble tours annually in the U.S. and internationally every three years. Non-music majors are eligible to take private lessons, and audition for any ensemble and music scholarships. The nationally recognized Christmas Festival is broadcast annually.

State University of New York at Fredonia

Fredonia, N.Y.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Sonja Inglefield

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.M.E.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 4

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Music Performance, Music Education, and Music Composition degrees are available at Fredonia, while harpists may also choose to consider the programs in Music Therapy, Sound Recording Technology, or Jazz.

State University of New York at Potsdam 

Potsdam, N.Y.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Jessica Suchy-Pilalis

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.A., Perf. Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 8

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam provides both performance and pedagogy. Whether a student aspires to be an orchestral harpist, soloist, educator, researcher or all of these, the program believes learning how to teach will deepen a student’s own musicianship. Collegiate harpists work with young students of varying ages in the National String Project in order to study and practice pedagogy. Crane supports double majors, both within and outside of music, and encourages undergraduate research through the Honors and Presidential Scholars programs.

Susquehanna University

Selinsgrove, Penn.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Ruth Hunter

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: This program is for students who are looking for a more rural educational setting. There are many performing opportunities. Includes orchestra, band, chamber music opportunities, and theory.

Tennessee State University

Nashville, Tenn.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Phyllis Taylor Sparks

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., M.M.

Harp students last year: 5

Number of school harps: 5

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Individual Applied Harp lessons via classroom or ZOOM are available. The music program also features orchestra, band, and chamber music.

Texas Christian University

Fort Worth, Texas

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Kela Walton

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., D.M.A., Artist Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 4

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: TCU harp students enjoy many solo and collaborative performance opportunities within a supportive and small studio environment. TCU harpists study repertoire and technique, representative of major harp literature, with an emphasis on supple playing, tone production and clear articulation. The harp program at the undergraduate as well as graduate level includes studies in Harp Pedagogy, Harp Ensemble, orchestral excerpts, and masterclass opportunities with visiting international guest artists.

Texas Tech University

Lubbock, Texas

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Rachel Mazzucco

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.M.E., D.M.A., PhD

Harp students last year: 8

Number of school harps: 9

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes orchestra, chamber orchestra, chamber music, harp ensemble, pedagogy, wind ensemble, bands, Celtic ensemble, improvisation, Mariachi ensemble, and early music ensemble.

TU Dublin Conservatoire

Dublin (Ireland)

Type of school: Conservatory

Harp instructors: Cliona Doris, Rosanna Moore

Degrees offered: B.M., M.M., D.M.A., PhD

Harp students last year: 10

Number of school harps: 3

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: N/A

University of British Columbia

Vancouver, B.C. (Canada)

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Elizabeth Volpé Bligh

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.A., M.M.E., D.M.A., PhD, Artist Dip. or Cert., Perf. Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 1

Number of school harps: 5

Space provided for personal harps: No

Program details: Large and small ensembles include a symphony orchestra, two wind ensembles, and various chamber groups. Some large ensemble concerts at the Chan Centre are archived and available on the school website. Elizabeth Volpé Bligh gives weekly private lessons and also coaches 12 hours of studio classes (small group setting) in which the students receive instruction about various aspects of being professional harpists.

University of Chicago

Chicago, Ill.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Lillian Lau

Degrees offered: B.A., M.A., Ph.D.

Harp students last year: 3

Number of school harps: 3

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The UChicago Performance Program includes monthly orchestra concerts in Mandel Hall, bi-weekly sectionals, chamber music coachings, harp ensemble concerts, new music ensemble, and composition. Scholarship is available for the music lesson awards.

University of Colorado

Boulder, Colorado

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Janet Harriman

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.M.E.

Harp students last year: 4

Number of school harps: 4

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes orchestra, opera, chamber music, wind symphony, and symphonic band.

University of Denver

Denver, Colo.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Courtney Hershey Bress

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., Artist Dip. or Cert., Perf. Dip. or Cert., Prof. Studies Cert.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 3

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: At Lamont School of Music Courtney Hershey Bress, Principal Harpist of the Colorado Symphony, is involved in the instruction and coaching of everything from lessons to chamber music. The students perform in orchestra, wind ensemble, opera, chamber, and contemporary groups, along with learning the main solo repertoire for the harp. Harp majors have one-hour lessons and a one-hour studio class every week, along with chamber music coachings and pedagogy.

University of Evansville

Evansville, Ind.

Type of school: University 

Harp instructor: Erzsébet Gaál Rinne

Degrees offered: B.M.

Harp students last year: 1

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes symphony orchestra, wind ensemble, symphonic band, jazz band, chamber music, music therapy, music education, music management, and music performance.

University of Georgia 

Athens, Ga.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Monica Hargrave

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., M.M., M.A., D.M.A.

Harp students last year: 4

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The University of Georgia Hugh Hodgson School of Music is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music, the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education, and the American Music Therapy Association. The harp program gives students the opportunity to perform with orchestra, the harp ensemble, wind symphony, wind ensemble, chamber ensemble, contemporary music, and jazz ensembles. 

University of Houston 

Houston, Texas

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Hope Cowan

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.M.E., D.M.A., PhD, Perf. Dip. or Cert., Prof. Studies Cert., Specialist Deg.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The University of Houston Moores School of Music is located in one of the largest and most diverse cities in the U.S.. Harp students have the opportunity to play in orchestra, band, mariachi, chamber music ensembles, and new music ensembles. Students can also major in music education, non-profit arts leadership, music marketing, music therapy, sacred music, and interdisciplinary studies. 

University of Illinois—Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, Ill.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Ann Yeung

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.A., M.F.A., M.M.E., D.M.A., PhD, Artist Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: N/A

Number of school harps: 15

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Illinois encourages a student to become an artist-citizen for the 21st century and explore opportunities in orchestra, harp pedagogy/literature/technology, harp ensemble, wind ensemble, chamber music, contemporary music, composition, jazz, and more. 

University of Iowa

Iowa City, Iowa

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Erin Freund

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., M.A., D.M.A., Ph.D.

Harp students last year: 4

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Students in the School of Music have full access to a new state-of-the-art building that features a 700-seat concert hall, group and individual rehearsal spaces, classrooms, and more.

University of Kansas

Lawrence, Kan.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Erin Wood

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.M.E., Perf. Dip. or Cert., Specialist Deg.

Harp students last year: 4

Number of school harps: 4

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: KU offers a variety of classes as well as music therapy and music education programs. There are multiple ensembles and harpists get experience playing with orchestra and wind ensemble. KU has an endowed scholarship specifically for harp students. The Bachelor of Arts program is designed for students who want to double major.

University of Maryland

College Park, Md.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Sarah Fuller

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.M.E., D.M.A., Ph.D.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: UMD prepares harpists for all aspects of a career in music, including solo, chamber and orchestral performance, and teaching. With nearly 30 active ensembles and dozens of chamber groups, UMD harpists perform with at least one major ensemble every semester. Located in the Baltimore-Washington corridor, UMD harpists often take professional work while completing their degree. Scholarships and assistantships available.

University of Miami

Coral Gables, Fla.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Laura Sherman

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.A., M.M.E., D.M.A., PhD, Artist Dip. or Cert., Perf. Dip. or Cert., Specialist Deg.

Harp students last year: 6

Number of school harps: 4

Space provided for personal harps: No

Program details: Includes weekly harp lessons, studio, and forum classes where students explore, learn, and perform (solo, chamber, orchestra rep & harp ensemble). Performance opportunities: Symphony Orchestra, Symphonic Winds, Wind Ensemble, Henry Mancini Institute, Ibis New Music Ensemble, opera, chamber music, musical theatre, and jazz. Frost also offers harpists degrees in music therapy, music engineering, music business, and composition. Scholarships available, including a graduate TA in harp. 

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, Mich.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Joan Raeburn Holland

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.M.E., D.M.A., Specialist Deg.

Harp students last year: 8

Number of school harps: 8

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The University of Michigan is for harpists committed to excellence and seriousness of study who seek to grow in a musical environment of excellence, artistry, and personal attention.

University of Minnesota

Minneapolis, Minn.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Kathy Kienzle

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., D.M.A.

Harp students last year: 4

Number of school harps: 4

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes orchestra, band, wind ensemble, jazz ensembles, contemporary ensemble, chamber music, pedagogy, and two opera productions every year. Students participate in a weekly studio class with all harp students. Suzuki teacher training is also available.

University of North Carolina School of the Arts

Winston Salem, N.C.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Jacquelyn Bartlett

Degrees offered: B.M., M.M., Artist Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 4

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Weekly solo opportunities, professional-level orchestra concerts covering important repertoire, numerous opera and ballet performances, chamber music, harp ensemble, Chrysalis professional program, concert touring, job opportunities, and an international faculty.

University of Nevada-Reno

Reno, Nevada

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Marina Roznitovsky Oster

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., M.M., M.A., D.M.A.

Harp students last year: 7

Number of school harps: 5

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The area offers many professional opportunities for an aspiring harp student and has a touts a harp-loving community. Reno is often considered one of the top 10 US. cities to live in, because of its manageable size and proximity to Lake Tahoe and the Sierra Mountains.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, N.C.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Laura Byrne

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 3

Number of school harps: 3

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: UNC offers opportunities to study harp solo, chamber music, and participation in the UNC Harp Ensemble, UNC Symphony Orchestra, and UNC Wind Symphony.

University of North Texas 

Denton, Texas

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Jaymee Haefner

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., M.M., M.A., M.M.E., D.M.A., PhD, Artist Dip. or Cert., Perf. Dip. or Cert., Prof. Studies Cert., Specialist Deg., MBA (Music Business)

Harp students last year: 18

Number of school harps: 10

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The UNT harp program includes an array of performance facilities and opportunities for harp performance, including two orchestra;, three bands; chamber, choral, and jazz opportunities; contemporary and traditional ensembles; courses in harp pedagogy and literature; and harp ensemble (UNT HarpBeats). Professional topics include music business, arranging, recording, and networking. The program is ranked in the top 10 music programs in the U.S. and worldwide at a state-university tuition.

University of Oklahoma

Norman, Okla.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Gaye LeBlanc

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.F.A., M.M.E., D.M.A.

Harp students last year: 4

Number of school harps: 5

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The University of Oklahoma has a comprehensive program of lessons, studio classes, harp ensemble, harp orchestral literature, and harp pedagogy. Harp scholarships and graduate assistantships are offered, which cover stipend and health insurance. The School of Music has many ensembles including orchestra, several bands, choirs, early music ensemble, contemporary ensemble, operas, and musicals.

University of Oregon

Eugene, Ore.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Matthew Tutsky

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.M.E., D.M.A., PhD, Perf. Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 7

Number of school harps: 7

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The University of Oregon School of Music and Dance harp program includes Orchestra and Wind ensembles, chamber music, pedagogy, orchestral literature/repertoire, improvisation, historical harp, folk, and jazz. Lever harp tuition is also offered. The school has four pedal harps, two lever harps, a baroque triple harp, and 20 Derwent Adventurer 20 lap harps.

University of Ottawa

Ottawa, Ont. (Canada)

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Natalie Hoffmann

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., M.M., M.A., Prof. Studies Cert.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Closely tied to Canada’s major cultural institutions, the University of Ottawa is a place to prepare for a professional career in music. Harpists receive performance opportunities in orchestra, contemporary music and wind ensembles, and chamber groups, in addition to private lessons, orchestral excerpt classes, and masterclasses. The university also offers a program combining the Bachelor of Music with an Honors Bachelor of Science.

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, Penn.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Samantha Wittchen

Degrees offered: B.A., Ph.D.

Harp students last year: 3

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: No

Program details: The University of Pennsylvania’s music program offers an excellent opportunity for beginner through advanced students who want to pursue study of the harp through a music major or along with another major. The program offers private harp instruction, studio classes, solo performance opportunities through annual studio recitals, and ensemble performance opportunities in orchestra, chamber groups, and pit orchestras.

University of Redlands

Redlands, Calif.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Jillian Lopez

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., Artist Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 3

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The stated goal of the Conservatory of Music is to educate the whole musician, not just to train a performer. At Redlands, students learn to perform, interpret, and teach music in a liberal arts environment.

University of Richmond

Richmond, Va.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Anastasia Jellison

Degrees offered: B.M.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The school is located 15 minutes from downtown Richmond. Harp students receive 13 one-hour lessons each semester. Private lessons are given on a weekly basis. Students may also register for orchestra and chamber music.

University of Toronto

Toronto, Ont. (Canada)

Type of school: University

Harp instructors: Judy Loman, Angela Schwarzkopf

Degrees offered: B.M., B.M.E., M.M., D.M.A., Artist Dip. or Cert., Perf. Dip. or Cert.

Harp students last year: 3

Number of school harps: 3

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Weekly hour-long private lessons. Weekly two-hour performance classes. Opportunities for performance with the orchestra, opera orchestra, chamber class, contemporary ensemble, and many other groups.

University of Utah

Salt Lake City, Utah

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Cathy Clayton

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.A., M.F.A., M.M.E., D.M.A., Ph.D., Prof. Studies Cert.

Harp students last year: 11

Number of school harps: 3

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The University of Utah provides a supportive environment where students can personally excel on their instrument. The program includes classes in harp pedagogy, harp literature and history, and ensemble and chamber music. Harpists have opportunities to perform in small ensembles with a variety of instruments as well as multiple orchestral performance opportunities including opera, ballet, symphony, and wind orchestras. This program aims to provide the student with the knowledge and skills to move into the competitive world of music performance and harp education so that they can carve out a career path for themselves upon graduation.

University of Virginia

Charlottesville, Va.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Anastasia Jellison

Degrees offered: B.M.

Harp students last year: 5

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: No

Program details: The University of Virginia is located in Charlottesville, minutes from mountains, apple picking, and hiking. Students can register for 30-minute or 60-minute weekly lessons. There are 13 lessons each semester. Students may also register for orchestra (by audition) and chamber music.

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, Calif.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: JoAnn Turovsky, Maxine Eilander

Degrees offered: B.M., M.M., D.M.A., Perf. Dip. or Cert., Prof. Studies Cert.

Harp students last year: 8

Number of school harps: 5

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Founded in 1884, the University of Southern California Thornton School of Music offers a curriculum designed to prepare students for successful careers in the 21st century. Modern harpists study with harpist JoAnn Turovsky in USC Thornton’s Strings department. USC Thornton is also the first university in the U.S. to offer studies in historical harps, and students study with Maxine Eilander in Thornton’s Early Music program.

Utah State University

Logan, Utah

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Chilali Hugo

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., Music Therapy

Harp students last year: 8

Number of school harps: 2

Space provided for personal harps: No

Program details: The Harp Program at Utah State University seeks to prepare students for a variety of career paths. The school’s focus is on the whole person, cultivating and fostering a healthy, engaged, and creative individual. By putting into action what is learned during one-to-one instruction, students solidify technical goals and explore their own musical personality while developing critical faculties students need for wherever life takes them.

Virginia Commonwealth University

Richmond, Va.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Colleen Potter Thorburn

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 3

Number of school harps: 1

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: VCU’s Department of Music seeks to maintain a friendly, close-knit environment for music students while offering access to all the arts and culture of downtown Richmond, including partnerships with Richmond Symphony, jazz clubs, historic churches, and performance venues. Harp majors at VCU have access to private lessons, weekly masterclasses, and ensemble opportunities ranging from VCU Symphony and Symphonic Wind Ensemble to chamber music groups and harp ensemble.

Vanguard University

Costa Mesa, Calif.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Mindy Ball

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 0

Number of school harps: 0

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes solo, orchestra, harp in choral music, chamber music, harp ensemble, and

Christmas Concert at Segerstrom Concert Hall.

Vassar College

Poughkeepsie, N.Y.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Chelsea Lane

Degrees offered: B.A.

Harp students last year: 4

Number of school harps: 3

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: The Department of Music at Vassar College offers lessons for both music majors and for non-music majors in harp. In addition to weekly private lessons, students have the opportunity to participate in masterclasses, studio recitals, chamber ensemble, and orchestra performances.

Washington College

Chestertown, Md.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Anastasia Pike

Degrees offered: B.A.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 0

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: From performance and education to music business and production, music majors at Washington College develop an individualized program as their work toward their B.A.

Wayne State University

Detroit, Mich.

Type of school: University 

Harp instructor: Patricia Terry-Ross

Degrees offered: B.A., M.A.

Harp students last year: 2

Number of school harps: 4

Space provided for personal harps: No

Program details: The Music Department is part of the College of Fine, Performing and Communication Arts. 2017 Kresge Eminent Artist Patricia Terry-Ross is the harp professor and also Principal Harpist for the Michigan Opera Theatre. Scholarships are available, and students have many performance opportunities each semester, including orchestra, band, chamber ensembles and recitals. Bachelor and Master of Arts degrees are offered in both performance and education.

West Virginia University

Morgantown, W.Va.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Christine Mazza

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E., M.M., M.M.E., D.M.A.

Harp students last year: 6

Number of school harps: 3

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: West Virginia University undergraduate and graduate degree programs for harpists include B.S. in harp performance, B.A. in Music, B.S. in Music Education, Music Therapy, Music Industry, Music Theory and Composition, Music History, Music Minor, Secondary study, Master of Music, and Doctorate of Music Arts.

Western Kentucky University

Bowling Green, Ky.

Type of school: University

Harp instructor: Phyllis Taylor Sparks

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., M.M.

Harp students last year: 1

Number of school harps: 0

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes orchestra, band, and chamber music.

Westmont College

Santa Barbara, Calif.

Type of school: College

Harp instructor: Marcia Dickstein 

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A.

Harp students last year: 4

Number of school harps: 3

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes orchestra, chamber music, solo and community orchestra opportunities. The music major at Westmont emphasizes the development of creativity, musical skills, and general knowledge.

Wheaton College Conservatory of Music

Wheaton, Ill.

Type of school: Conservatory

Harp instructor: Faye Seeman

Degrees offered: B.M., B.A., B.M.E.

Harp students last year: 4

Number of school harps: 4

Space provided for personal harps: Yes

Program details: Includes orchestra, wind ensemble, harp in choral groups, chamber groups, and opportunities to play compositions by student composers. Student harp ensemble available most semesters.