June 9 Jazz on the Harp: Groove, Freedom, and Flow Nishi Kumar, 6:00–7:30 PM Explore the foundations of jazz on the harp, including rhythm, chord patterns, and introductory improvisation. This session focuses on helping harpists move beyond written music and develop a more flexible, expressive playing style. About the Instructor Nishi bio coming soon
June 10 Introduction to Harp Ensemble for beginners Kristal Schwartz 7:00-8:30 Explore the skills needed to thrive in harp ensemble. The first year of ensemble takes students by surprise as it's a very different skill set from private lessons and solo performing. Students will be given ensemble music prior to workshops. Then we will go through the 5 key skills needed to become successful.
About the Instructor Kristal Schwartz is a harpist has a masters degree from SFCM and is an educator, and founder of the Bay Area Harp Academy and Bay Area Harp Foundation. With over 20 years of experience, she is dedicated to building high-level musicianship while creating an inclusive and inspiring learning environment. Her students have gone on to win competitions, perform in orchestras, and pursue advanced studies in music.
June 11 Orchestra Excerpts Decoded: What Conductors Actually Want Dan Levitan, 7:30–9:00 PM Gain practical insight into orchestral excerpts and audition expectations. This session focuses on clarity, precision, and musical decision-making that aligns with what conductors and audition panels are truly listening for. About the Instructor Dan Levitan is a professional harpist and educator specializing in orchestral performance and audition preparation. With extensive experience performing in professional ensembles, he offers harpists a clear and strategic approach to mastering excerpts, focusing on the musical and technical details that conductors and audition panels expect. His work bridges high-level performance with practical, results-driven training. https://harpmandan.com/
July Workshops July 7 (Zoom) Precision Under Pressure: Winning Your Orchestra Seat Katherine Siochi, 6:30–7:30 PM A focused session on orchestral preparation, including practice strategies, consistency, and mental approach. Learn how to deliver confident, reliable performances in high-pressure settings. About the Instructor Katherine Siochi is Associate Principal Harpist of the San Francisco Symphony and an experienced educator specializing in orchestral performance and audition preparation. With a career rooted in high-level ensemble playing, she offers harpists a clear and disciplined approach to mastering excerpts, refining technique, and developing the consistency required for professional auditions. Her work emphasizes both technical excellence and musical clarity, preparing students for success on stage and in competitive settings. https://www.katherinesiochi.com/
July 7 Playing Without Pressure: Music for the Love of It Adult Workshop, 7:30–9:00 PM Designed for adult harpists seeking a more relaxed and fulfilling approach to playing. Build confidence, reduce performance anxiety, and enjoy music-making without the pressure of perfection. About the Instructor Kristal Schwartz is a harpist has a masters degree from SFCM and is an educator, and founder of the Bay Area Harp Academy and Bay Area Harp Foundation. With over 20 years of experience, she is dedicated to building high-level musicianship while creating an inclusive and inspiring learning environment. Her students have gone on to win competitions, perform in orchestras, and pursue advanced studies in music.
July 8 Calm Under Pressure: Conquering Performance Anxiety Dr. Yiru Li, 7:00-8:30 Develop practical tools to manage nerves and perform with confidence. Learn strategies to stay focused, grounded, and in control during performances and auditions.
July 9 The Hidden Errors: Why Your Playing Feels Stuck Dr. Yiru Li, 7:00-8:30 Identify subtle technical habits that may be limiting your progress. This workshop focuses on efficient technique and small adjustments that lead to noticeable improvement. About the Instructor Dr. Yirui Li is a harpist and educator completing her Doctor of Musical Arts at the University of Oregon. She specializes in technique and performance psychology, with research focused on managing music performance anxiety. https://www.bayareaharpacademy.com/about-yirui-li.html
August Workshops August 5th Studying Harp at College: Why Major in MusicJulie Johnson 6:00-7:00pm Considering a degree in music? Join harpist and educator Julie Johnson as she explores what it means to study harp at the collegiate level. Learn about choosing the right program, preparing for auditions, career opportunities, scholarships, and what life is really like as a music major. This workshop is ideal for high school students, parents, and anyone considering a future in music.
August 6th Gig Ready: Building a Thriving Harp Career Erica Messer 6:00-7:30 Learn how to build a sustainable harp career, from setting rates and communicating with clients to branding and booking. This workshop is ideal for harpists looking to turn their skills into consistent, professional opportunities. About the Instructor Erica Messer is a luxury harpist, musical storyteller, and educator based in the San Francisco Bay Area, with over 40 years of experience on the harp. She performs for high-end weddings, corporate clients, and exclusive venues, including San Francisco City Hall. She is the founder of Wolfie’s Wish and the creator of The Harp Collective—a booking agency and mentorship academy that helps harpists turn their skills into real income. Her work focuses on bridging the gap between traditional training and the realities of building a modern freelance career, guiding musicians from the practice room to paid gigs with clarity and confidence. https://www.ericamesser.com/
August 6 Adult Workshop 7:30–9:00 PM A collaborative session for adult harpists focused on technique, musicality, and personal growth. Build confidence, refine your skills, and enjoy making music in a supportive community.
About the Instructor Kristal Schwartz is a harpist has a masters degree from SFCM and is an educator, and founder of the Bay Area Harp Academy and Bay Area Harp Foundation. With over 20 years of experience, she is dedicated to building high-level musicianship while creating an inclusive and inspiring learning environment. Her students have gone on to win competitions, perform in orchestras, and pursue advanced studies in music.
August 7th French, Salzedo, or Something Else? Technique Demystified Gerry Porcaro, 6:00–7:30 PM Explore the major schools of harp technique and how they influence sound, efficiency, and long-term development. Learn how to make informed technical choices that support your individual playing goals.
August 7th Theory Bootcamp: The Language Behind the Music Gerry Porcaro 7:30–8:30 PM Strengthen your understanding of music theory in a practical, player-focused way. This session connects theory directly to repertoire, helping you learn music more efficiently and with greater confidence. About the Instructor Gennaro Porcaro is a harpist who performs regularly across the United States and Italy, with experience in orchestral, theatrical, and private event settings. He has performed with ensembles including the Plainfield Symphony Orchestra and Rutgers Symphony Orchestra, and is currently pursuing his Master’s in Harp Performance at the University of North Carolina, Greensboro. https://www.thebash.com/harp/gennaro-porcaro