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Harp

Collegiate Apply / Request Information

Harp

Collegiate Apply / Request Information

Degrees and Programs

Undergraduate

Harp Bachelor of Music

The pursuit of beauty begins with 47 strings.

a harpist practices in her dorm with city hall in the background

The San Francisco Conservatory of Music’s Harp Department prepares harpists for successful and diverse careers as modern musicians. Our harp program offers an intimate learning environment with two dedicated instructors, Jennifer Ellis and Katherine Siochi. In addition to mastering the technical and musical facets of harp performance, students study a wide array of practical topics from orchestral performance, harp maintenance, harp pedagogy, harp composition and transcription, and more. Thanks to our donors, SFCM provides four concert grand pedal harps, two semigrand pedal harps, and two lever harps.

Harpists have a wealth of ensemble opportunities, including chamber music, orchestra, opera, musical theater, new music, choir, and wind ensemble. Throughout the year, there are numerous opportunities to collaborate with colleagues in the Composition and Technology and Applied Composition departments to premiere new works for harp. 

SFCM rigorously prepares students for their career ahead with a robust Professional Development curriculum that includes everything from digital marketing to community engagement to financial literacy and beyond. Students are able to shape their degree path to support their individual career goals. Undergraduate harp students, in addition to their harp major, may choose a concentration in leadership, teaching, or technology. Graduate harp students may choose a mock audition jury track, or one focused more on solo performance, with options to highlight chamber music, harp composition, harp transcription, or even harp improvisation. 

Faculty

Study with the best.

SFCM Opera performance

Industry Alliances to Support Students and Artists

In recent years, SFCM acquired two leading artist management companies and an iconic record label to reimagine how elements of the music industry can better integrate to advance the human experience through music. For students, that means more opportunities to interact with touring artists and industry experts–including professional development workshops, side-by-side performances, and enhanced masterclasses.

SFCM student walking up stairs inside 50 Oak building in San Francisco

Visiting the Campus

We look forward to your visit! Contact the Office of Admissions to take a tour of our facilities. You can also contact the strings faculty directly to arrange a consultative lesson.

SFCM students playing in ensembles together

Ensembles

Performance opportunities abound at SFCM. Whether your interest lies in symphonic repertoire or chamber music, there’s a place for your unique voice. Be sure to check out the diversity of ensembles on offer.

Financial Aid and Affordability

At SFCM, we understand that college is a substantial investment. We're here to help, and we're committed to working with you to achieve the education you desire. 99% of our students receive financial aid at an average rate of 57% tuition discount.

Life on Campus

Learn about safe and secure, all-suite on-campus housing, where 24/7 practice rooms are just the beginning.

Performances

We put on more than 500 performances a year, including student recitals, masterclasses, and side-by-sides with exciting guest artists—most of them free to the public. Check out one today.

Newsroom

Get the inside scoop on everything going on at SFCM with stories of SFCM's students, alumni, faculty and leadership.

Alliances

SFCM leads an alliance across the music industry consisting of artist management companies Opus 3 Artists and Askonas Holt and recording label Pentatone. Together, their work creates opportunities for students, artists, presenters, and audiences to develop and experience new ideas.