Speaker: Abbie Palmer

Presented by the Lifelong Learning Institute, Manassas

This event is open to the public. For more information about the Lifelong Learning Institute, Manassas, visit lli-manassas.org

In preparation for Abbie Palmer’s Matinee Idylls concert at the Hylton Center, she will take us through the journey to her improvisational style of harp playing and her career as both music therapist and performer. Abbie will also talk about collaboration with other artists and include details of working with percussionists such as Lucas Ashby. You’ll learn about the types of harps and styles in which they can be played as well as where Abbie has incorporated them in her career as a freelance full-time harpist specializing in Celtic, Classical, contemporary, original, and improvisational music.

Abbie Palmer is a multi-genre electric harpist, performer, recording artist, and producer. With roots in World music, Classical training, and a contemporary writing style, Abbie brings an eclectic and eccentric presence to any stage or album. She is most known for her percussive style on the harp as well as her unique singing voice. Abbie has been writing, recording, and performing her original music for over 15 years and recording her original music for over a decade. Abbie’s musical roots began in Celtic music, and as a child, she was on stage performing harp at the Maryland Renaissance Festival. She went on to focus on Classical music in college and received a dual degree in Classical harp performance, gaining skills as an orchestral harpist. After experiencing emphasis in both Celtic and Classical genres, Abbie began exploring contemporary and singer-songwriter style music. Overall, she brings a wide range of experiences to any stage and musical performance and introduces vast creativity to any project she touches.