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Pat Terry Ross named 2017 Kresge Eminent Artist

Detroit harpist Pat Terry Ross has received a $50,000 award from the Kresge Foundation; in 2008 she was featured in a rare special issue of Harp Column. (photo: Doug Coombe.)

January 26, 2017

Pat Terry Ross was featured in our January-February 1996 issue, as well as in our 2008 special issue.

The Kresge Foundation has named harpist and vocalist Pat Terry Ross its 2017 Eminent Artist. She is the ninth artist to receive the honor—which also includes a $50,000 award— for her “contributions to art form, cultural community, and residents of the city,” according to the foundation’s website.

Pat Terry Ross has served as principal harpist with the Michigan Opera Theater for 40 years. She is also a dedicated music educator—having spent over 30 years leading Cass Technical High School’s renowned harp program—and is currently adjunct associate professor of harp, choral conducting and vocal music at Wayne State University. “Since I’m out there as a performer, and there are kids who’ve had a chance to see me, it becomes real for them,” said Terry Ross in her 1996 interview with Harp Column. We featured her again in our 2008 special issue.

“Patricia Terry-Ross is an unsung musical hero in Detroit, and it’s well time to recognize and sing her praises,” said Kresge President and CEO Rip Rapson.

Read more at kresge.org; at www.freep.com; and at www.detroitnews.com.

 

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