About

Meet Gabrielle: The Story Behind the Strings

My musical journey began not with strings, but with keys. I started on the piano because I knew I was meant to be a musician, but I’ll admit—I hated practicing! Everything changed when I was nine years old. My family took me to an Amy Grant concert where we sat directly over the orchestra pit. I spent the entire night mesmerized by the harpist. It was love at first sight; I declared right then that the harp was my true instrument.

That Christmas, my grandfather gave me my first harp—a small shepherd’s lap harp—and a stack of books. His instructions were simple: “Alright, learn how to play.” My mother and I studied everything we could find, teaching ourselves the language of the instrument. I never looked back. As I grew, my grandfather eventually gifted me “Rose Melody,” the larger harp I still play and cherish today.

Classical Foundations & Orchestral Expertise

By high school, the harp had become my identity. I performed in the school concert band and began competing as a solo artist in annual music competitions, while also serving my local community by playing for church services and small events.

This path led me to college, where I had the privilege of studying under Julia Ann Scott. Transitioning to the pedal harp and playing in the college orchestra for all four years was a transformative experience. It sharpened my technical expertise and gave me a deep love for the grand, symphonic sound of the instrument. While I hope to sit with an orchestra again one day, these years provided the professional foundation I bring to every solo performance.

From the Stage to the Studio

After graduating, I began playing for weddings and services, but my heart has always belonged to the world of performance. With a lifelong background in dance, musical theatre, and acrobatics, I took a detour from the harp to work as a professional costume character performer at Sesame Place, eventually going on tour with Sesame Street LIVE.

Returning from the tour, I transitioned into teaching and choreographing for various studios and productions. This “performer’s eye” is what sets me apart today—I don’t just see a booking as a gig; I see it as a production that requires timing, grace, and visual beauty.

The Illuminated Experience Today

In 2020, my husband and I relocated from New Jersey to Ohio, and by 2022, my harp career truly took flight. Today, I perform for a wide range of occasions, including weddings, corporate functions, engagements, luncheons, and memorials.

As The Illuminated Harpist, I bring a unique, modern flair to a traditional instrument. My signature LED lighting (The Illumination) creates an ethereal atmosphere that complements my specialized musical style. I take pride in:

• Modern Arrangements: Recreating popular, recognizable songs with an ethereal, “dreamy” flair.
• Seamless Transitions: Composing custom medleys for wedding processionals to ensure the music never breaks until the moment is perfect.

My goal is to continue sharing the music that has touched my life with others, creating unforgettable soundtracks for the most meaningful moments in Northeast Ohio and Western Pennsylvania.