The Baltimore Symphony Orchestra has appointed Abigail Kent principal harp, beginning in the 2025–26 season. Kent previously held the principal harp position at the Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra, served as harp fellow for the New World Symphony, and has appeared as a guest harpist with the Philadelphia Orchestra, Minnesota Orchestra, and Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. Born and raised in Charleston, South Carolina, Kent toured the United States as the American Harp Society (AHS) Concert Artist from 2017–2019 after winning first prize at the Young Professional Division of the 2017 AHS National Competition. Kent was also third prize winner at the 2022 Korea International Harp Competition and finalist at the 2020 Young Concert Artist International Auditions.
Kent is a member of the faculty at the College of Charleston and has also served as guest faculty at the Brevard Music Center, Young Artist Harp Seminar, and American Harp Academy. Kent has also been invited to present masterclasses and lectures at institutions and conferences, including The Juilliard School, the American Harp Society National Institute and Conference, and the American Harp Academy.
Kent’s academic training included studying at the Royal Academy of Music in London, The Curtis Institute of Music, and Mannes School of Music before completing a Doctor of Musical Arts degree at The Juilliard School. Learn more on Kent’s website.
