Meet Crystal Sawyer | Harpist & Music Educator
We had the good fortune of connecting with Crystal Sawyer and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Crystal, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
My work life balance is a new dance for me these days. I used to have a full time job in addition to my business. After 20 + years, it was time for me to do something new. Earlier this year, I decided to embrace full time self employment and the lessons have been invaluable. There is space in my schedule to attend to my health and wellness. After a long run of performances, I can drop from the face of the earth to attend to my own self care. Instead of always feeling rushed, there is breathing room to simply be in the present moment. Mornings have slowed down to include walks in the park and motivational material over breakfast. I think that the balance has improved the quality of my life but does require a constant cultivation in order for me to remain happy. Time with friends is something that I would like to dedicate more time to doing.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My life as a harpist has shown me an entirely different world. I can perform in odd places such as a Metro Mover station or the butterfly garden while an artist paints. I can also provide music while you connect to your emotions due to grief or pluck away while a dance troupe venerates Venus under the full moon. The possibilities are endless be it performing for ambiance, healing, or education. Music can truly uplift spirits.
Many people come to talk to me after a performance to express how they felt while listening to music. Pleasant memories of another country are shared or that time a boyfriend became a husband. Sometimes, people are so overcome with emotion that they are unable to speak but share the joy nonetheless.
I spend time adding the extra details to create a show for the event. My attire often sparks a happy chat before I even start performing. Costuming really does connect with people. The attention to the soundtrack is also key in that people enjoy hearing what they play on the radio. If I am able to know what their favorite repertoire is, it helps me to bring them into the performance.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
When I reached out to Robbin Gordon Cartier for mentorship, my life changed forever. Having the support of someone that has walked your path and can guide you is uplifting. She has taught my students, mentored me, shared in my personal triumphs as well as struggles. If I had chosen to have children, this woman would be the godmother without question. The love and support that I have received from her is worth more than any price that can be put on a standard music lesson.
Website: www.ladyofharp.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ladyofharp
Twitter: twitter.com/ladyofharp
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ladyofharp
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