A Little About Myself:
Musical Background and Training

I began studying music at the age of 2 1/2, starting with violin. By the age of 11 I was also taking harp and piano lessons. I have since completed both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in harp performance from Northwestern University, where I studied under Elizabeth Cifani, Lyric Opera principal harpist. Other teachers include Minnesota Orchestra Principal Harpists Joan Mainzer (retired) and Kathy Kienzle (current).

I play a full-sized classical pedal harp--a Lyon & Healy ebony and bronze style 23. My repertoire for the pedal harp includes a broad range of styles--classical (from Medieval and Renaissance to French Romantic and Contemporary), Celtic, Jewish, east Asian, religious, and popular (from the Phantom of the Opera to Enya). I also have smaller repertoires for the folk harp, double-strung folk harp, and the wire-strung Irish harp.

I've been playing for special events for about eighteen years. Some examples include wedding ceremonies and receptions; birthday, anniversary, and retirement parties; open houses, grand openings, and benefits. Previous steady engagements include playing for the Hyatt Deerfield's Sunday brunch every week for six years.

In addition to my freelance work for special events I regularly appear in concerts with various ensembles and orchestras throughout the greater Chicago and Milwaukee area. I am the Principal Harpist with the Waukesha Symphony and was the Principal Harpist with the Peoria Symphony and the Elmhurst Symphony for many years. Other appearances include playing for the National Touring Company's production of the Phantom of the Opera at the Civic Opera House in Chicago and being part of the Moody Blues' back-up orchestra at the Star Plaza Theater in Indiana.

Pronouncing My Name
The "a" in my name is pronounced like "are" or "car", not like "air" or "carry". It's an old Norwegian name related to the name "Karin". It's not related to the name "Carrie", a derivative of the name Caroline or Karen.

Information on Harps and Hiring a Harpist:
Harp Information & FAQ
Get the answers to frequently asked questions about harps and hiring a harpist. Includes questions like "What's the proper term for someone who plays the harp? Harpist, harpsist, harpest, harp player, or harper?", "What are the different types of harps?", "Does a harp require amplification?", "What goes into the cost of hiring a harpist?", "How much does a harp weigh", and much more.

Wedding and Event Planning Links
Links Index Page
Visit the Links Index page for a full list of Chicagoland Wedding and Event Vendor Links, but here are two to get you started::

Chicago Wedding Pictures - Affordable wedding photography and video production by experienced professionals. Watch a sample video which includes shots of me playing harp at a wedding: Wedding Video.

Reverend Rebecca - The fantastic officiant I chose for my own wedding! Specialties include interfaith, humanistic, ethnic, Celtic and "eco" weddings, personalized to express your core values & highest aspirations.