Elisabeth Remy Johnson

Elisabeth Remy Johnson serves as Principal Harpist of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra since 1995, holding the Delta Air Lines Chair, while maintaining academic appointments as Adjunct Instructor at Georgia State University, Artist Affiliate at Emory University, and Artist in Residence at Kennesaw State University. Her career integrates orchestral performance, solo artistry, and dedicated music education outreach across Atlanta institutions.

She graduated from Harvard University Phi Beta Kappa with dual majors in Music and French, studying under Ann Hobson Pilot in Boston and Alice Chalifoux at the Salzedo Summer Harp Colony. Her educational foundation bridges classical training with linguistic studies.

Ms. Remy Johnson specializes in harp performance across orchestral, solo, and chamber contexts, with expertise in standard repertoire from Debussy and Mozart to contemporary works. Her artistic focus extends to community engagement through youth programs, emphasizing harp accessibility in underserved communities. Recordings like Whirlwind (2000) and Encantamiento (2008) showcase her technical brilliance and interpretive depth in both solo and collaborative settings.

Her distinguished recognition includes:

• Competitive awards from American Harp Society and American String Teachers Association
• NFAA/ARTS distinction
• Atlanta's Channel Eleven Community Service Award
• TBS Pathfinder Award
• Atlanta Business Chronicle's "40 under 40" honor

As an educator, she co-founded the Urban Youth Harp Ensemble (2000-2010), serving 55 Atlanta Public Schools students, and mentors through the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra. Her teaching spans Georgia State University, Emory University, and ASO Talent Development programs, prioritizing harp pedagogy for diverse learners.

Active in national harp communities, she performs regularly at American Harp Society Conventions, the International Harp Festival in Rio de Janeiro, and regional chamber festivals, consistently advancing harp repertoire and visibility.