BETH HENSON

Beth Henson is committed to a career of collaboration and exploration, determined to ensure that audiences receive classical music with appreciation and excitement in the 21st century. 

 

Beth’s love of the symphonic repertoire began during her time playing with the University of Michigan’s Symphony Orchestra. This love has only grown with her subsequent orchestral engagements, notably as Guest Harp with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra, and Louisville Orchestra, among others. She serves as Principal Harpist with the Macomb Symphony, and frequently joins orchestras around Southeast Michigan. She has also recently had the honor of joining the Chautauqua School of Music for the 2025 season, and of being the Harp Fellow for the Mostly Modern Festival in their 2024 season. 

 

Outside of symphonic playing, Beth maintains an active chamber music career. During her Undergraduate degree she founded the Holland Trio, which won the Gottlieb award for Excellence in the University’s Collage Concert, and was a finalist in the University of Michigan Briggs Chamber Music Competition. In addition to her work in this trio, Beth has been a member of several wind and harp duos, working to promote greater awareness of, and appreciation for, the harp as a chamber ensemble member. 

 

In her solo accomplishments, Beth has recently appeared as a guest with Warren Symphony Orchestra, performing Michael Daugherty's Harp of Ages. She also prepares and performs a recital program every year. As an advocate for accessible and engaging performances, these programs are curated to showcase the capabilities of the harp and to introduce an audience to the beauty of the instrument. In keeping with the tradition of many harpists before her, Beth is also dedicated to expanding the instrument’s repertoire. She maintains several working relationships with composers to support new music for the harp, and offers consulting services on harp writing.

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Beth completed dual Masters degrees in Harp Performance and Chamber Music in 2026 from the University of Michigan, studying with Joan Holland. She also holds a Bachelor's of Music in Harp Performance from the University of Michigan.