Maryland Summer Harp Institute 2026
In its 30 year history, the GreenSpring Summer Harp Institutes have provided training to hundreds of talented harpists from across the United States and around the globe. From the novice to the advanced student, harpists focus on individual goals and musicianship classes in a supportive and inspiring musical environment. In addition, they receive one-on-one lessons with our distinguished faculty. Special seminar topics and fun social activities keep students engaged while also piquing their musical interests. We know students are thrilled with our course offerings as 90% of our students have returned year after year!
2026 Dates and Information
Maryland Summer Harp Institute
June 22 - 26, 2026
Optional Concert Tour June 27 - 28, 2026
Frederick, Maryland
Ages 12-18
The Ultimate Summer Harp Experience!
Summer is the perfect time to be inspired by world-class faculty, grow as a harpist, and concentrate on your artistic development! Our Summer Harp Institute includes two tracks: intermediate (open to all) and advanced (audition only).
The Maryland Summer Harp Institute Includes:
Multiple private harp lessons affording you ample opportunity to work with our world-class faculty!
Private lessons with guest artists available by request. Inquire for information and availability.
Your choice of academic electives- Music History, Composition and Arranging, Music Theory and Aural Skills, Arts Management, and more
30 Minutes to Transformation guided practice
Your choice of workshops- Audition and Competition Panel, Wellness for Musicians, World Music and Rhythm Workshop, The Orchestral Harpist, Career Seminar, Practice Like a Pro!, Introduction to Improvisation, Conducting, Yoga and Stretching for Harpists, and more!
Ensemble and performance opportunities
Harps available for use at in-person Institutes
Fun social activities, and more!
*The above is a Full Day Schedule, the Half Day option includes the private lesson, 30 Minutes to Transformation and workshops
Student Concert Schedule
Art of the Harp - Solo Night
Final Performance and Send-Off Concert
Optional Concert Tour - June 27 - 28
Harpists may also attend Richmond Summer Harp Institute, Richmond Conservatory Preparatory Program, and Richmond Summer Chamber Music!
2026 Guest Artist
Abigail Kent
Harpist Abigail Kent communicates emotions and stories through music, using the harp as a passport to the human heart. An international award-winning harpist, Fanfare Magazine recognized her for “immaculate playing and musical sensitivity.” Some of Abigail’s international awards and honors include “New Artist” in Musical America International Magazine, winner of the touring “Concert Artist” position for the American Harp Society, and Live Finalist for the Young Concert Artists International Auditions. Most recently, they received 3rd prize at the 2022 Korea International Harp Competition.
She is the Principal Harpist Fellow of New World Symphony and has also performed with the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra, Savannah Philharmonic, and Charleston Symphony Orchestra. Her performances at international festivals include the Aspen Music Festival, Spoleto Festival USA, Pacific Music Festival (Sapporo, Japan), and Tanglewood Music Festival.
A committed teacher and educator, Abigail is on the harp faculty at College of Charleston, having created two different and individualized pathways to study the harp that mirror her own double identity: traditional lever harp and classical pedal harp. Abigail has presented masterclasses and lectures for the American Harp Academy, the 2019 American Harp Society National Institute, The Curtis Institute of Music, and The Juilliard School.
Kent studied at and earned degrees from the Royal Academy of Music in London, Curtis Institute of Music, Mannes School of Music, and most recently received the degree of Doctor of Musical Arts from The Juilliard School.
Past guest artists include:
Claire Jones, Jacquelyn Bartlett, Grace Cloutier, Mindy Cutcher, Grainne Hambly, Joan Raeburn Holland, Janet Witman, and many more!
Location
The Maryland Summer Harp Institute is located in beautiful Frederick, Maryland. Spend your summer exploring the historic downtown, escaping to the peaceful GreenSpring farm, and making new friends!
Tuition & Application
Full Day - $1,050
Half Day - $525
Optional Concert Tour - $175
Room & Board (optional) - $450
An advance deposit of $200 will be collected upon registration in order to reserve your place.
Application Fee - $25
Audition requirements:
The Maryland Summer Harp Institute offers two tracks - intermediate and advanced.
For the intermediate track, harpists are asked to submit a playing sample of one piece best demonstrates their current level and ability.
For the advanced track, harpists should submit the following two requirements:
One fast, technical étude or movement from performance repertoire
One slow, lyrical étude or movement from performance repertoire
There is no expected time limit for an audition - only that the two pieces show a broad range of musical experience. Audition materials can be shared using a YouTube, Google Drive, or other accessible link.
Harpists may also attend Richmond Summer Harp Institute, Richmond Conservatory Preparatory Program, and Richmond Summer Chamber Music for maximum benefit!
We hope to see you this summer!
What Students Are Saying
“A motivating, inspirational and life-changing experience [and] a musician’s dream come true.”
