Susanna Campbell was recently appointed professor of harp at Stephen F. Austin State University, following the retirement of esteemed harpist, Emily Mitchell. Says Campbell, “It was my privilege to study under Emily Mitchell at Stephen F. Austin State University for my master’s degree, and upon her retirement, it is both humbling and elating to return to the university not as a student but as a faculty member. I’m looking forward to working with phenomenal colleagues and building an energized harp program at the university and in the music preparatory division.”
When asked about her goals for the harp department, Campbell says, “My vision is to prepare students to thrive as musicians and harpists in the real world through excellence in artistry, versatility of skills, and a remembrance that music—in all its forms—is just downright fun.” She adds that she is planning to showcase the harp studio throughout the community, aiming to create outreach opportunities for her students. “I also plan to bring in guest artists and pedagogues, and to promote collaboration between harpists, composers, dancers, artists, and other musicians studying at SFASU.”
Based in Houston, Campbell also teaches at Lone Star College and is on faculty with the Houston Summer Harp Festival. As a performer, she is principal harpist with the Round Rock and Houston Civic symphonies, and she plays regularly with the Aurora Trio and Shoso Duo, a group she formed last year with shakuhachi master Shawn Renzoh Head.
For more information, visit her website at www.harpandpiano.com.
