Claire Burney,
harpist
About Claire
First ever harp lesson!
I always wanted to play the harp. From my earliest memories, I was begging my parents to let me take lessons. I remember telling my grandmother I wanted to play and she always used to say, “You’re going to have to own a big house to play that big instrument!” (I bet she’s playing a harp in heaven now 😉)
My faith enables me to say that it was a God-given desire and now a gift I get to share with others.
I was so fortunate to have a well-rounded musical education from an early age.
During my undergraduate and graduate programs, I realized how well prepared I was for a higher-level education in music because of all of the aspects my early/pre-college harp teacher incorporated into my lessons- theory, aural skills, ensemble, improvisation, teaching experience, a harp community, etc.
I am determined to now provide that same level of education and experience to my students.
During my bachelor’s degree program at Austin Peay State University, I spent two summers studying orchestral repertoire at the Sewanee Summer Musical Festival where I discovered my love for orchestral playing. I went on to complete a Master’s degree at the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music. Now I play professionally as Principal Harpist with Paducah Symphony, Orchestra Kentucky and Gateway Chamber Orchestra as well as Substitute Harpist for Nashville Symphony and surrounding orchestras. Other fun things I get to do are perform with Music City Hit-Makers, record as a studio/session harpist, teach blooming rock-(st)harpists both privately and as Adjunct Professor of Harp at Austin Peay State University and serve as Treasurer for the Nashville Harp Society!
I would not be where I am today without my amazing teachers, mentors and my very own group of rock-(st)harpists who helped me along the way!
I live in my hometown of Clarksville, TN with my dream-man husband, DJ.
If I’m not geeking out over purple harps, you can find me outside on a walk, at the gym or baking cookies! (probs why I stay so active ☺️)
