Two time Grammy nominated harpist for classical solo recording, Sarah Schuster Ericsson’s playing has been hailed “nothing short of spectacular” (Baltimore Sun). 

Ms. Ericsson’s Grammy-nominated recordings as a solo artist have gained widespread acclaim. Her latest album, 20th Century Harp Sonatas (Sono Luminus), has been described by Audiophile as “strongly recommended, even to those who normally shy away from harp recitals; it’s that good.” This release marks her second Grammy nomination. Her first Grammy nomination came with Night Breeze, a collection of music composed by famed harpist Carlos Salzedo. With this recording, she made history as the only harpist to ever receive a nomination in the classical category for Best Solo Instrumentalist without Orchestra. All Music Guide describes her performance as “so clean and strong, so radiant and polished as to be practically perfect.”

Ms. Ericsson’s debut CD, Iridescence, explores a variety of harp genres and was hailed by Fanfare Magazine as showcasing “excellent performances of interesting off-the-usual-path repertoire,” with Ms. Ericsson being described as a “virtuoso harpist.”

Sarah Schuster Ericsson was born in Erie, PA. She began her musical studies at the age of five with the piano before turning to the harp at age ten with her mother as her first teacher.  She was quickly accepted as a student of Alice Chalifoux, who was to become her major influence on the harp.  Ms. Ericsson continued her studies at The Cleveland Institute of Music, where she received her Bachelor of Music degree.  While a student, she was awarded a national harp fellowship to the Tanglewood Music Center.

Soon after graduation, Ms. Ericsson joined the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. While in Baltimore, she also  premiered many solo works for the harp  including an American premier with the Annapolis Brass Quintet. After playing with the Baltimore Symphony,  Ms. Ericsson moved to Boston where she played with the Boston Symphony Orchestra for ten years. 

Ms. Ericsson has performed in the major concert halls across North and South America, Europe, and Japan. During her tenure, she collaborated with renowned conductors such as Sir Simon Rattle, James Levine, and Bernard Haitink, and performed at prestigious festivals including Salzburg, Spoleto, and Tanglewood. The Boston Globe praised her for “dazzling, bravura playing and captivating detail,” As a soloist, Ms. Ericsson has appeared with many distinguished ensembles, including the Boston Pops, and as a featured guest at the National Harp Society Conference. 

Ms. Ericsson plays Lyon & Healy instruments: a Concert Grand 23 and a Salzedo model harp. She lives in Massachusetts with her husband, three children, and retired racing greyhound.