JAINA CARPENTER

As a harpist, Jaina has performed with the Chicago Sinfonietta, New Philharmonic, Tulsa Signature Symphony, Union Avenue Opera of St. Louis, Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra, Illinois Valley Symphony Orchestra, Knox-Galesburg Symphony, Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra, and Fox Valley Orchestra. In 2011, she won first prize at the Midwest Harp Festival Solo Competition in Tulsa, OK. As part of a chamber group, she was awarded a Community Arts Access Grant in 2012. Jaina is currently the Treasurer and Membership Chair of the Greater Chicago Chapter of the American Harp Society and the Assistant Director of the Midwest Harp Festival. As a pianist, Jaina accompanies the Illinois Math and Science Academy’s Concert Choir and Chamber Choir. She has experience accompanying middle school through college-age students, professionals, and choirs in competitions, recitals, and juries.

Jaina has a Bachelor of Arts in Music and Chemistry from Washington University in St. Louis. She also holds a Master of Music and Performer’s Certificate in Harp Performance from Northern Illinois University. As a harpist, Jaina has been fortunate to study with Nanette Felix, Brittany (Woessner) Schultz, Dr. Sue Taylor, Alice Giles, and Faye Seeman and attended summer camps with renowned teachers Janet Witman, Judy Loman, Mary Bircher, Jan Jennings, and Elizabeth Richter. As a pianist, Jaina has had the pleasure of working with Tracy Pallesen, Annette Burkhart, and Dr. William Koehler. 

“Thanks for being the best accompanist ever. You make me feel so comfortable and confident and provide really helpful feedback.”

- Kate Cockle, harpist