Overview
The Colorado State University Harp Studio fosters a supportive environment with ample personalized attention for undergraduate and graduate students.
- Master of Music, Performance Option
- Bachelor of Music, Performance Concentration, Music Therapy Concentration, Music Education Concentration, and Composition Concentration
- Bachelor of Arts in Music
- Music Minor
Every harp student receives expert instruction and personalized support based on their degree plan and professional goals. Critical thinking and problem-solving are heavily incorporated into lessons so that each student may develop efficient and smart practice habits. Emphasis is placed on the development of a healthy and sustainable technique that enables students to refine and explore their musicality. Technique development includes instruction on biomechanics, self-awareness, and sound. Through this holistic approach using cognitive, auditory, and kinesthetic techniques, students will learn how to streamline their learning process and achieve excellent musicianship.
Lesson material includes standard and contemporary solo, chamber, and orchestra repertoire. Students have varied performance opportunities with ensembles such as the University Symphony Orchestra, Opera Orchestra, and Wind Symphony. Students also have access to outstanding performances by students, faculty, and guest artists throughout the year.
Graduates of the CSU Harp Studio will be empowered to embark on their own career paths that may include performing, teaching, and other entrepreneurial endeavors. Please reach out to kathryn.harms@colostate.edu with any inquiries about the Harp Studio or audition requirements listed below. Any prospective student is offered a complimentary lesson and consultation (virtual or in person).
Study With
Audition Requirements
Undergraduate Audition (music majors)
- Two pieces of contrasting style
- One standard orchestra excerpt such as Waltz of the Flowers (Tchaikovsky), Swan Lake (Tchaikovsky), or Capriccio Espagnole (Rimsky-Korsakov
- For Bachelor of Music, Performance Concentration applicants, solos must be performed by memory
- For all other degrees, memorization is strongly encouraged but not required
Music Minor Audition
- Two pieces of contrasting style
- Memorization is strongly encouraged but not required
- Music minor applicants planning to participate in large ensembles must also include one standard orchestra excerpt such as Waltz of the Flowers (Tchaikovsky), Swan Lake (Tchaikovsky), or Capriccio Espagnole (Rimsky-Korsakov)
Graduate Audition
- Two pieces of contrasting style
- Two contrasting orchestra excerpts such as Symphonie Fantastique (Berlioz) and IV. Adagietto from Symphony V. (Mahler)
- Sight-reading
- Solos must be performed by memory