Lori Gemmell (Image via One World Harp Gala)
Get ready for a summer of true musical magic with the One Harp World Gala, where four unforgettable evenings of music will come to life right here in Toronto.
Celebrating the beauty and versatility of the harp, this year’s international conference takes place on July 28 and 30, as well as Aug. 1 and 2. Hosted across two venues — the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel ballroom and St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church — the event promises an inspiring celebration of music and artistry.
Presented by some of the world’s most outstanding harpists, the One Harp World Gala showcases an eclectic program featuring everything from classical masterpieces and jazz to contemporary works performed alongside composers. Audiences can also look forward to an aerial performance and a special tribute to legendary Toronto harpist Judy Loman.
Here’s a closer look!
The series of harp magic starts off on Tuesday, July 28, with a focus on Canadian music and musicians. It will feature master of ceremonies CBC’s Tom Allen, with harpists Lori Gemmell, Erica Goodman, Renee Qin, Angela Schwarzkopf, Jennifer Swartz, Kristan Toczko, Sharlene Wallace, Noel Wan, and Joy Yeh.
Collaborating musicians will also perform works by celebrated Canadian composers, including Alexina Louie, Andrew P. MacDonald, Caroline Lizotte, Marjan Mozetich, Kevin Lau, Renée Qin, Sharlene Wallace, and Kristan Toczko.
The second gala night follows on Thursday, July 30, where the exceptional musical life of iconic Canadian harpist Judy Loman is being celebrated.
Recognized as one of the world’s foremost harp virtuosos, Loman was the principal harpist of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra from 1959 until her retirement in 1991.
The night features Kathleen Kajioka as moderator, plus presenters like Mario Anraku of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, Joseph Glaser from the Canadian Music Centre, Alanna Ellison of the Ontario Harp Society, and many other talented musicians.
Bring it down to St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church on Saturday, Aug. 1 for the Chamber Music Concert.
This will feature multi-award-winning harpist Claudia Lamanna and Emmanuel Ceysson, the principal harp of the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
Prepare for an afternoon or evening of unique performances! The Cirque des harpes is a freewheeling and eclectic performance with a stacked lineup of talented musicians.
Blending dance, music, theatre, and some “out of this world” performances, this is an event not to be missed. Performances include Caroline Lizotte with aerialist Anja Marina Habeggar, Kristan Toczko, and Sarah Veber with a Newfoundland Kitchen Party, and many more.
To kick off the event, the Irish student harp ensembles will perform pre-concert at 7:15 p.m. on July 28 and 30!
Tickets start at $35, and with limited spots available, now is the time to purchase your tickets. Visit the One Harp World website to grab yours today and get ready for the magic that is the harp!
When: July 28 and 30, and Aug. 1 and 2
Where: Events take place at Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel ballroom and St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church
Tickets: Start at $35 — Available here
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