Students learn harp technique through weekly study of the standard classical harp repertoire. Music theory (study of key signatures and harmony), rhythm studies, and musicianship comprise a large and crucial part of a student’s lesson. When a student has mastered basic concepts, they are encouraged to join an ensemble of other students so that they can interact and learn from each other.

Performing for others is a natural and rewarding outcome of playing a musical instrument. All students take part in formal and informal performance situations in a structured and safe environment to develop their skills in playing for others. When a student becomes comfortable in this structured performance environment, they are encouraged to seek out individual opportunities for performance, such as for school, church, and family events. Typical performances include a family holiday concert in December, a formal end-of-year concert in June, and masterclasses each semester with visiting artists.

Students are required to have a concert-tension pedal or lever harp available for daily practice. Advance knowledge of the piano keyboard is helpful, but not required. A willingness to learn, the ability to listen, and the dedication to develop a structured and focused practice routine are more important than a student’s current level of ability. Parents are encouraged to work with their child in developing a structured practice routine at home; they are also required to assist young students in tuning the harp and setting up an ergonomic environment for daily practice. Parents of students age 10 and under may be required to sit in on lessons to aid in the learning process.

Lessons take place at my home in the Art Museum area of Philadelphia. Limited spaces are also available at the Virginia Harp Center at their Haddonfield, N.J., location.

Youth Orchestras
Kim's students have participated in area youth orchestras including:

Philadelphia Youth Orchestra
Philadelphia Young Artist's Orchestra
Philadelphia Sinfonia
Delaware All State Orchestra
New Jersey All State Orchestra
All South Jersey Regional Orchestra
Delaware Valley Youth Orchestra
Delaware Valley Young Musicians Orchestra
Rowan University Youth Orchestra
Reading Symphony Youth Orchestra

Summer Programs
Kim's students have participated in national summer programs including:

Young Artist's Harp Seminar
Saratoga Harp Colony
Interlochen Arts Camp
Summer Conference for String Education and Chamber Music

Honors
Kim's students have been prize winners and finalists in local and regional harp competitions of the American Harp Society and have gone on to pursue harp at institutions such as the Interlochen Arts Academy, Temple University, and the Curtis Institute of Music.