Thursday, June 12th

Harpist Heidi Bearcroft has classical music in her DNA.

Heidi grew up in Pittsburgh as part of an extraordinary musical family. Among her immediate relatives are celebrated principal players in major American orchestras, acclaimed soloists and teachers.

Today, Heidi is among the top orchestral musicians in North America, playing principal harp with the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.

"Music is just wired in my psyche and heart," she says. "I truly can't remember a time when I didn't want to be on an orchestral stage for the rest of my life."

Heidi started playing piano at three, harp at seven. She mostly studied with her mom before earning both bachelor's and master's degrees from the Juilliard School of Music. While still in her teens, he made her debut as a concerto soloist and won a number of major national competitions. She's been with the TSO for over a dozen years and has also played with the Pittsburgh, Mariinsky and Manitoba Chamber Orchestras.

When not on stage, Heidi teaches privately and coaches students at the Glenn Gould School at the Royal Conservatory of Music. She encourages young musicians to fully engage with their work and to maintain both their physical and emotional well-being.

"I adore sharing my music with audiences. I feel as if I am always on the edge of my seat (harp bench!) And it's the best seat in the house."