Musical America Worldwide has named Abigail Kent its February 2018 “New Artist of the Month.” The publication has highlighted composers, conductors, dancers, singers, and instrumentalists on its website every month since 2009, though Kent is the first harpist to be featured. Written by harpist Laura Sherman, the article highlights her musical introduction and progression through the years as a harpist.
As the winner of the young professional division of the American Harp Society competition, Kent is presently serving as the AHS Concert Artist for 2017 – 2019, a position that offers her the opportunity to travel across the U.S., giving recitals and masterclasses. Concurrently, she is studying at the Mannes School of Music where she is pursuing a Master of Music under Met Opera harpist Emmanuel Ceysson. She has previously studied at the Royal Academy of Music in London and at the Curtis Institute of Music with Philadelphia Orchestra harpist Elizabeth Hainen. As an orchestral harpist, Kent is principal harpist with Symphony in C and has been a guest musician with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra and the New World Symphony
Sherman also showcases the 23-year-old’s interest in new music, a passion that has led to collaborations with young composers; she has commissioned many pieces to premiere in her recitals. Sherman writes, “Kent sees her work with composers as an opportunity to clarify misconceptions about the instrument, with Kent adding, “Most people think of the harp as a strictly feminine instrument but it has so many other dimensions.”
Read more of Abigail Kent’s feature at Musical America Worldwide or visit her website at www.abigailkentharp.com/.
