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, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
In 2022, I was a music educator with MDCPS. I watched in horror as a music organization presented a horribly offensive performance for the students. It took me 24hrs before I realized how deeply offended I was. After spending a great deal of time reflecting on the issue at hand, Lady of Harp Academy was created. The education sector of Lady of Harp was created to provide a safe musical space that centers children of marginalized communities. This affords them the opportunity to connect to their creativity through the musical arts while empowering them with the strength of their cultural identity.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Life itself inspires what I do. Trials and tribulations are often reflected in the music and how it is portrayed. My ensemble arrangements are based on the needs of students and what they like to hear. My background in public education truly prepared me for what I do as a music educator outside of the classroom. I am able to create opportunities that enable the growth and development of students while centering them with their cultural identity. The harp positive space is safe and inviting for all whom choose to be a part of it. It is not always easy. A lot of time is dedicated to preparation and administrative duties. Most weekends find me working while friends are out and about. However, I get to do what I love for a living. I enjoy the opportunity to create, represent, and inspire.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I would take them to the Hard Rock Casino to watch the Deep Fried Funk Band perform. It was the best night for me in 2024, I look forward to taking more friends to this venue to watch this band perform. The band leader is excellent and always delivers a wonderful time.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Robbin Gordon Cartier of Harps for Life serves as the academy godmother. The warmth that emanates through her effective instruction simply speaks to the joy that the harp brings to her. Her eagerness to share its wondrous nature with students is unsurpassed. It is because of her mentorship that I am able to flourish.

Website: https://www.ladyofharp.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ms.c.sawyer

Image Credits
PERSONAL PHOTO: AJ SHORTER