Greater Chicago Chapter of the American Harp Society

The Greater Chicago Area Chapter of the American Harp Society is a 501(3)c nonprofit & its members are include a community of harp enthusiasts, supporters, educators, advocators, and performers. Chicago has long been a hub of artistic innovation and musical excellence, and its community of harpists is no exception. From the classical stages of downtown concert halls to the vibrant jazz lounges and spiritual sanctuaries on the South Side, harpists in Chicago have carved out a unique and influential presence in the city’s musical landscape.

Lauren Hayes, President

Lauren distinguishes herself in the areas of contemporary music, ensemble performance, and harp instruction. Ms. Hayes has been an active member of the American Harp Society, the World Harp Congress, and Sigma Alpha Iota. She serves as leader and volunteer with the non-profit, Sharing Notes, that specializes in bringing live music into Chicago-area hospitals and cancer treatment centers. 

Raquel Coleman, Vice President

Raquel freelances throughout Chicagoland, and the surrounding Midwest. Her passion for the harp is expressed through her work with pedagogy, academia, and community building. Ms. Coleman believes the harp should be available to everyone, while still honoring the instrument’s incredible unique elegance and history.

LeAnne Bennion, Treasurer

As a freelance musician in Chicago, LeAnne has played for events of all kinds; weddings, baby showers, funerals, cocktail parties, birthdays, church services, business conferences etc. She regularly performs for teatime at the downtown historic Drake Hotel, the Palmer House Hotel, the Langham Hotel and The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island.  Her television appearances include Apple TV’s new show Dark Matter, a national commercial produced by The Onion Network and on an episode of the television show Empire.

Yoojin Jung, Membership Secretary

Yoojin is a freelance harpist based in the Chicago area and performs as a substitute harpist with orchestras across the Midwest. Beyond her orchestral work, she appears with chamber ensembles, at community events, and in church concert programs.
She also maintains a teaching studio in Chicago and the southwest suburbs, and takes great joy in seeing her students perform with the Chicago Youth Symphony and the Naperville Youth Symphony.