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Shortlidge and Laurance named editors of the American Harp Journal

Leslie Shortlidge (left) and Emily Laurance
January 22, 2018

The American Harp Society has announced that Leslie Shortlidge has been named Executive Editor for its biannual publication, the  American Harp Journal, with Emily Laurance serving as Associate Editor. Shortlidge and Laurance will replace Laura Sherman who served as Interim Editor in 2017. Ann Yeung served as chair of the search committee, with Cheryl Ann Fulton, Chilali Hugo, Ruth Inglefield, Linda Rollo, Cheryl Cunningham, Elaine Litster, and AHS Executive Director Kathryn McManus assisting in the search.

Shortlidge is a freelance writer and editor in Columbus, Ohio, with experience in managing journals. She has served as managing editor of Race/Ethnicity: Multidisciplinary Global Contexts and has worked with Wexner Medical Center Marketing, Dover Publications, and the Ohioana Library, of which she oversees all print and electronic publications. “Right away I was struck by the devotion and dedication of harpists and harp enthusiasts in general,” says Shortlidge. “Harp lovers seem like a tight-knit bunch but also eager to share their knowledge with newcomers of all kinds. The latter is a particularly attractive trait since I am one of those newcomers!” A guitar player and harp beginner, she says, “I am eager to learn more about why people start studying the harp and their goals, at what ages, best practices for teachers and students – and about studies on harp and science. I am so fortunate to be welcomed into this community and provided with expert advice and support.”

Some of that support and harp-related expertise will be provided by harpist, musicologist, writer, and editor Emily Laurance. Already a member of the journal’s editorial board, Laurance is currently Contributing Commentary Editor for A-R Editions’ Online Music Anthology. She was previously Scholar-in-Residence at the John W. Kluge Center at the Library of Congress, conducting research for a book manuscript on the early pedal harp, and has served as a reader for Camac Publications and Indiana University Press. She holds two Bachelor’s degrees from Oberlin College, in harp performance and English, a Master of Music degree from New England Conservatory of Music, and a Master’s degree and Doctor of Philosophy degree in musicology from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill.

The Board of Directors says, “This new team will offer fresh perspectives and produce an outstanding American Harp Journal. We expect Leslie and Emily will honor the journal’s heritage while expanding its value to all.” To this they add that they encourage members to offer feedback and to submit content ideas and article submissions.

Visit harpsociety.org to join the American Harp Society and receive the American Harp Journal.

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