Meet Adrienne Knauer, A Professional Harpist in Scottsdale

Today we’d like to introduce you to Adrienne Knauer .

Adrienne, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My earliest memories of the harp were in the movie Fantasia. Ironically, that movie was my least favorite Disney movie but for some reason the harp image remained in my head. It wasn’t until I was 16 that I took my first harp lesson. Having played piano and flute all my life, I picked up the harp quickly.

In 2005 entered Penn State University as a flute major and left as a harp major. I decided I needed to see how far the harp could take me. I finished a Masters degree from Temple University in Philadelphia where I studied with the principal harpist of the Philadelphia Orchestra and one of the best musicians in the world, Elizabeth Hainen. Even though I’m classically trained, I play all genres of music – with classic rock being my favorite. My dream is to be in a rock band.

Fast forward to 2016 when I decided to trade in my snowshoes for sandals and moved to Phoenix. I’ve met a fabulous singer, Kim Weston, who I frequently perform with and I play weddings almost every weekend. Phoenix is a stunning backdrop for couples to say “I Do” and I love playing a part of their special day.

Has it been a smooth road?
There are two that stand out in my mind as having majorly altered my future. The first is not passing a crucial music education course at Penn State that forced me to decide if I would continue to work toward a music education degree and the second deciding to leave Peabody Conservatory after a year of graduate studies. The latter was a decision that resulted in me moving to Philadelphia which I still believe was one of the best decisions I ever made.

One that’s a continuing struggle is standing up for myself as a musician and my craft. Unfortunately, I have to turn down gigs frequently because they don’t pay enough. People think we should “do it for the love of music” and for “exposure.” I strive to have the highest quality of performance and have the training to back it up. I don’t believe we have to be martyrs for music.

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Harpist – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Although I’m classically trained and was preparing to audition for orchestras, since moving to Phoenix I’ve focused on becoming an expert wedding musician. I take great care in every detail of my services – from meeting with couples to play special requests to keeping up with the latest music technology to provide the best experience possible. I’m most proud of my level of professionalism, from arriving early to interacting with guests and offering the highest level of service possible.

One point that I believe sets me apart from other harpists is my wide range of repertoire. I truly enjoy all genres of music and am constantly adding current songs to my set list. I can play everything from Beiber to Bach to the Beatles. I thrive on keeping up with current trends in the music industry and am constantly trying to enhance my wedding services.

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
How close it is to so many outdoor activities – whether it’s hiking in the McDowell Mountains, biking on the greenbelt, or tubing down the Salt River. Also the daily sunsets behind Camelback are worth taking a moment to soak in.

The one thing I feel like Scottsdale could be better at is a sense of community. I wish there were more local shops and vendors in my neighborhood.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.phoenixharpist.com
• Phone: 914-299-9962
• Email: adrienneknauer@gmail.com

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