Throughout Oklahoma and Texas, Raquel Coleman is an up and coming freelance performing harpist. She grew up surrounded by her friends and family who constantly fostered her already present love for music. When Raquel began playing the harp and pursuing lessons, she realized that harp was her vessel of expression and vulnerability. Raquel’s first harp teacher was Chelsea Bushong of OKC, Oklahoma.

Besides freelancing, Raquel has performed several principal harp roles such as: Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake Ballet (Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute Orchestra), Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet (OKC Philharmonic), Respighi’s Pines of Rome (University of North Texas’ Concert Orchestra), and many more. She currently studies under Dr. Jaymee Haefner, as well as performs with the UNT Harpbeats, an internationally-renowned harp ensemble.

In addition to her studies and performances, she is currently starting to create her own harp studio, in which she can share her growing knowledge on the technique of playing the modern harp. Raquel’s introduction to the harp followed a strict education in the American technique, also known as the “Salzedo” technique. Following this education, Raquel studies with Dr. Haefner, who is recognized as a leading researcher and pedagogue in the French technique. This unique combination of American and French technique allows for Raquel to teach with a method that uses the strengths of both different styles of playing.

When not spending time practicing or performing, Raquel can be found reading, spending time with her Australian shepherds Teddy and Jasper, practicing yoga, or cooking.  She hopes to continue researching the effects that playing music has on the body, both physically and mentally. 

Method of Teaching