World Harp Congress Official

IN MEMORIAM ELENA ZANIBONI It is with deep emotion that we wish to announce the passing of the Italian harpist Elena Zaniboni. Enfant prodige, she graduated at the age of 16 in Alessandria, studying then with Clelia Gatti Aldrovandi and Nicanor Zabaleta. Elena Zaniboni leaves behind an extraordinary musical legacy, shaped by her distinctive artistry, boundless curiosity, and lifelong devotion to the harp. A remarkable performer and inspiring educator, she opened new paths for the instrument, leaving a lasting influence on its repertoire and on generations of musicians. Among the mile stones of her career we would like to mention the rediscovery (and the several performances) of Sylvano Bussotti ‘s Fragmentations for one performer and two harps and the organization of the Fourth European Harp Symposium in Perugia in 1988. She was deeply religious and was very moved when she performed for the beatification of Pope Giovanni Paolo II in 2011. Elena was a strong advocate for contemporary music, inspiring composers to explore new paths of the harp, enriching its repertoire and leaving an extraordinary legacy. She was strongly involved in the organization of the World Harp Congress for many years serving as member of the Board of Directors and later of the Corporation. In 2014 Elena published the book “Le corde dell’anima”. Our heartfelt condolences go to her family, students, colleagues, and all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

It is with regret that we inform you of the death of Sheila Larchet Cuthbert (1923–2026) in her 104th year. Sheila was dedicated to the vision and work of the World Harp Congress for many years, first as a Correspondent for the World Harp Congress Review, and later as a member of the Board of Directors and Corporation of the World Harp Congress. In 2005, she was delighted to host the Ninth World Harp Congress in Dublin. Sheila enjoyed a distinguished career as a soloist, chamber and orchestral musician, teacher, arranger and researcher, and was an advocate for Ireland’s national instrument, the harp, publishing ‘The Irish Harp Book’ in 1975. She was also a founding member of the Radio Éireann Symphony Orchestra, now the National Symphony Orchestra Ireland. Sheila will be very sadly missed by her many friends and colleagues throughout the international harp community. #worldharpcongress #whc

We are deeply saddened by the passing of 𝗘𝗹𝗶𝘇𝗮𝗯𝗲𝘁𝗵 𝗙𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗻-𝗕𝗶𝗻𝗼𝗰𝗵𝗲 (1926–2026), an extraordinary French harpist and teacher. Her remarkable artistry and lifelong dedication to the harp inspired generations of musicians around the world. Her musical legacy will continue to live on. Our heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones.

We are pleased to share the new WHC Spectrum Round B video, “Like Cyanide Crystal – Come Cristallo di Cianuro.” We invite you to watch and share with your community. vimeo.com/1234879153?share=c… #worldharpcongress #whc #newmusic #vimeo #Spectrum

Focus on Youth Recital at the One Harp World in Toronto: “Acacia Street” by Sharlene Wallace (b. 1963), performed by Emma Wong, Canada #oneharpworld #worldharpcongress #americanharpsociety #harp #harpists #toronto #whc2026 #whc #ohw #ahc

Decoding Spohr: A Journey Through the Newly Published URTEXT Editions Presented at One Harp World, Masumi Nagasawa explores the newly published URTEXT Bärenreiter edition of Spohr’s works, offering fresh insights into his musical language through the lens of historically informed performance. By examining period-specific phrasing, articulation, and expressive detail, this presentation aims to illuminate interpretive possibilities that go beyond the written notes. #oneharpworld #worldharpcongress #americanharpsociety #harp #harpists #toronto #canada #whc2026 #whc #ohw #ahc

During One Harp World, the presentation “Susann McDonald: Thoughts for Teachers and Students” included Isabel Moréton, Nancy Allen, Jaymee Haefner, Linda Wood Rollo, Elzbieta (Ela) Szmyt, Elisa Torres, and Naoko Yoshino. The presentation offered perspectives on Susann McDonald’s teaching legacy and her impact on generations of harpists and educators. #oneharpworld #worldharpcongress #americanharpsociety #harp #harpists #harpteachers #toronto #whc2026 #whc #ohw #ahc

The signs of the arc: hands on exploration @lessignesdelarc @harpsociety @harpcolumn #oneharpworld #worldharpcongress #americanharpsociety #harp #toronto

Gala Tribute Celebration for Judy Loman during the One Harp World performance by Mariko Anraku

A Susann McDonald Soirée An informal celebration and gathering for friends and students of Susann McDonald. Open to all, to share music and memories. #oneharpworld #ohw #worldharpcongress #harpists

Open Stage during the One Harp World in Toronto, Canada performed by Central Conservatory of Music Harp Ensemble. Guan Wang, Director

Many thanks to the 2026 OHW Sponsors and Donors!

Many thanks to the 2026 OHW Sponsors and Donors: Bronze Sponsors and Maple Leaf Sponsors

Many thanks to the 2026 OHW Sponsors and Donors: Bronze Sponsors and Maple Leaf Sponsors

Many thanks to the 2026 OHW Sponsors and Donors: Bronze Sponsors and Maple Leaf Sponsors

Many thanks to the 2026 OHW Sponsors and Donors: Gold Sponsors with Aoyama Harp of Canada Ltd. and Camac Harp France

Many Thanks to the 2026 OHW Sponsors and Donations. Platinum Presenting Sponsor Lyon & Healy Harpmakers to the world since 1889 and Salvi Harps