Kathy Kienzle

Kathy Kienzle is Affiliate Faculty in Harp at the University of Minnesota and serves as principal harpist of the Minnesota Orchestra. She holds a private harp studio (Studio Fidicina) and is a Suzuki harp teacher trainer. Her distinguished career includes performances with renowned ensembles like the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra and Dale Warland Singers.

Research/Creative Interests: Specializes in contemporary harp performance, solo repertoire development, and Suzuki method pedagogy. Premiered works by composers including Lowell Liebermann and Einojuhani Rautavaara.

Awards & Recognition:

• Top prizes in International Harp Competition Jerusalem (1976) and American Harp Society Competition (1975)
• Multiple fellowships including Ruth Lorraine Close Fellowship and Minnesota State Arts Board grant
• Served as juror for USA International Harp Competition (2004)

Currently chairs the Board of Directors of the World Harp Congress while maintaining performance and teaching activities.