Susann McDonald, Renowned Harpist and Educator, Passes Away at 90
TL;DR
Participating in the USA International Harp Competition can elevate a young harpist's career and provide global recognition.
The competition consists of four stages, including required repertoire and a final performance with an orchestra.
The competition promotes the growth and recognition of talented harpists worldwide, fostering a community of excellence and appreciation for the harp.
Susann McDonald's impactful legacy in the harp community through teaching, performing, and promoting new works is a source of inspiration.
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The USA International Harp Competition, Inc. has announced the passing of Susann McDonald, a revered figure in the world of harp music and education, at the age of 90. McDonald, who joined the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music faculty in 1981, was celebrated for her unparalleled contributions as a pedagogue and performer. Her legacy includes founding the USA International Harp Competition in 1989, a premier event that has launched the careers of countless harpists worldwide.
McDonald's journey in music began early, marked by her study in Paris with Henriette Renié and becoming the first American to win the Premier Prix de Harpe from the Paris Conservatory at just 20 years old. Her career spanned performances for thousands, including a notable appearance at the Chicagoland Music Festival, and collaborations with major musical institutions. Beyond her performance career, McDonald was instrumental in the World Harp Congress and co-founded Music Works-Harp Editions, creating essential harp instructional materials.
Her impact extended beyond music into her personal faith and community involvement, notably through her devotional book and her recovery from a devastating house fire that led to the reconstruction of her invaluable sheet music collection. McDonald's dedication to the harp and its community was recognized with the World Harp Congress Award of Recognition for Service to the International Harp Community in 2008.
The USA International Harp Competition, which McDonald founded, continues to be a cornerstone for harpists, offering a platform for young musicians to showcase their talent. The competition, along with its associated programs, stands as a testament to McDonald's vision for the harp's future. Her passing is a significant loss to the music world, but her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched and the institutions she helped build. For more information on her contributions and the competition, visit https://usaihc.org.
Curated from 24-7 Press Release
