classical harp

Winter Harp: a Christmas Concert

January 3, 2014

Where does time go?

Each year the tour starts again and I ask myself that very simple question.  That question is magnified when looked at it through the scope of 20 years which is how long Winter Harp has been around.  Director and creator, Lori Pappajohn, who is a dear friend and colleague of mine, celebrated this incredible milestone this year.  When she asked me to join Winter Harp eight years ago, the magnitude of being asked to play in such a fantastic group had not yet hit me. Today, I feel fortunate to play in a group that tours and touches thousands of people’s lives every year. I also feel that much of my career as a harpist and being a Vancouver based musician can be credited to my dear friend, Lori Pappajohn.

These two videos give a little example of the magic and beauty created by Winter Harp:

From left, the musicians that are playing on stage: Lauri Lyster (percussion), myself (classical harp), Kim Robertson (Celtic Harp), Lori Pappajohn (Celtic Harp).

From left, the musicians that are playing on stage: Patrick Ball (wire strung harp), myself (classical harp), Kim Robertson (Celtic harp), Lori Pappajohn (Celtic harp).

Throughout the years that I have been with Winter Harp, the group has always had small changes in the musicians on stage which keeps it fresh and fun for both the musicians and the audience.  Two years ago, a life long dream of mine came true when Kim Robertson joined the group.  I wrote my feelings about this on my Facebook Music Page this past December:

“At 3 years old, I told my parents that I wanted to play the harp. Without knowing where to begin, my mom bought me a CD by Kim Robertson. As time passed by, she become an idol of mine. Twenty four years later, I have had the honour and pleasure of sharing the stage with this incredible woman for two tours. I am so thankful the universe has given me this opportunity and has landed me exactly where I feel I am supposed to be. I will continue to pinch myself as the tour rolls along.”

Kim Robertson & Janelle Nadeau

Happy 2014 to all! I wish you much health, happiness and beautiful music.

Vancouver Musician for Hire

October 31, 2013

One of the great perks of the new and updated website is that people get the chance to see what I do and what I am all about.  I have had many people in my life tell me that my personality has come through on the website. I have also had many people whom I have never met say that the website has an inviting feel and that they felt like they got to know me just from reading the pages.

Finding my webpage is actually what brought me and one of my recent clients, Rodrozen Designs together. They recently had a breakfast event where people in their industry were invited into their store; I played and sang as the guests mingled.  If you need any kind of design or renovation for your home, office and beyond, these are your guys!  They have beautiful art work as well.

I absolutely love performing in this setting. I get to share my singing and the beautiful music of the harp, all while playing a diverse set of music and meeting many new people . I am doing what I love and am so happy that my website is helping to spread the word all around Vancouver! To keep it accessible for everyone I try to incorporate: standards, some pop stuff, a little classical and even some of my own songs.  People are always surprised by the versatility of my music and the many places in which I play: events, fundraisers, parties and beyond.  They are often taken aback by the fact that I am not a stuffy musician but I bring humour and fun to my gigs.

harp & voice in Vancouver

harp & voice in Vancouver

harp & voice in Vancouver

The wonderful photographer for these shots was Mark Whitehead from gettheshot.  He has some amazing photos!

If you know of someone or a company having an event, this kind of music would definitely add that “je ne sais quoi” feel as harp music fills the air! Need a musician for hire?- contact me!