"Her performance was stunning."
MORE
"I am so, so glad we hired Sara
to come play her harp at our wedding!
She was a joy to work with from start
to finish. She was wonderful about
playing exactly the songs I wanted, and performed them all beautifully." MORE
"Thank you so much for the beautiful
performance you gave at our wedding."
Houston Harpist Sara Shute
Welcome to Essential Harp, the website of Houston harpist Sara Shute, winner of several national harp prizes. This site has been designed to give you an in depth introduction to Sara as a professional harpist and musician.
Along with 19 years of experience Sara brings fun, grace, and thoughtfulness to every performance. Here you can learn about her previous experience, formal music training, and hear her harp music. Also featured is a weddings page which is entirely dedicated to the topic of wedding ceremony music selection!
As a harpist Sara has traveled all over the United States, Europe, and the Middle East. She has completed a Bachelor's Degree in Music, Master's Degree in Music, and an Artist Diploma in Harp Performance from Indiana University, one of the leading harp programs in the world.
In addition she has won several top prizes in national harp competitions including the American Harp Society National Harp Competition and the Anne Adams Awards National Harp Competition, and has also participated in the USA International Harp Competition and the International Harp Competition in Israel. Past notable performances include the Houston Symphony Educator's Concert, the wedding ceremony music for Miss Universe, and the wedding ceremony music for Miss Nevada.
Sara currently performs at several events each month in Houston and the surrounding areas. Her harp music fits well in many settings whether it be a formal solo recital, private function, wedding, or orchestral appearance. Essential Harp has also had a booth at the past two Houston Bridal Extravaganza shows which gave Sara a chance to meet and perform for thousands of Houston area brides.
Sara plays a wide variety of music including Bach, Debussy, The Beatles, Norah Jones, and the music of the 1940's dance bands. She is a versatile and experienced harpist capable of handling any musical situation.
If you are interested in having harp music at your upcoming event please submit a contact form and Sara will get in touch with you to discuss the details.
Please enjoy your visit!
The Parador, Houston, TX
The Harp
The harp is an ancient instrument. Its' roots can be traced back to Egypt, where it originated from the hunter's bow. Although the harp is considered a rare instrument, it has had many noteworthy students such as King David, Marie Antoinette, and Harpo Marx. Historically it has been the instrument of choice at many of the royal courts around the world.
Sara performs on a Concert Grand Harp which has 47 strings and seven pedals. Although the harp has much in common with the piano, the resonance of the harp cannot be compared to any other instrument. The particular idiosyncrasies of the harp are what make it so unique.
Awards