Harp Column Blogs: Laura ByrneArchive

In case you missed the July/August issue of the harp column, Lisa Wellbaum has retired after 33 years as the Principal Harpist of the Cleveland Orchestra. Lisa graced the stage of Severance Hall and sustained the legacy of excellence established by Alice Chalifoux both in her beautiful performances and her practical advice to generations of harp students. As a Chalifoux student at the Cleveland Institute of Music in the 80's, Lisa Wellbaum was a fantastic role model for all of us and we valued her fine performances as the Principal Harpist with the Cleveland Orchestra. Frequently Lisa sat in on our jury examinations and offered sage advice and humorous anecdotes much to Miss Chalifoux's delight. We all looked forward to her comments and humor. Like Chalifoux, she had a dry wit and only gave compliments when they were truly earned - and so we worked hard to deserve them.

Lisa Wellbaum was not only the Principal Harpist with the Cleveland Orchestra but maintained this successful career while raising two daughters with her husband Steven Geber. Steven had a full time career of his own as the Principal Cellist with the Cleveland Orchestra. The two of them were a shining example of how to have a family and 2 fabulous careers simultaneously. This was no easy feat considering that the Cleveland Orchestra recorded frequently and toured internationally.

For those of us who have had the pleasure of knowing Lisa Wellbaum, we all extend our deep appreciation and thanks for her leadership as a Principal Harpist and her fantastic career. Her level of excellence and integrity has had a profound impact on generations of professional harpists. Those who have had the pleasure of working with her were blessed and lucky-she is a rare combination of confidence and class.

As an orchestral harpist/teacher and mother of 3 children, I look at her now with even more respect and admiration. She still offers support, advice and really great stories. Thank you Lisa Wellbaum for all your beautiful performing, pearls of wisdom, and sage advice. We all wish you a happy retirement even though we know that for you and Steven it is only ACT 2. Bon Voyage!