Player Portrait

Jennifer Craig

Principal Harp

First season with the Oregon Symphony:

1971-1972

Most influential teacher(s):

I began harp lessons when I was seven and soon after began idolizing the great Marcel Grandjany. He took the time to answer a little girl's letters about harping and later invited me to be his student at the Juilliard School of Music. Catherine Michel, harpist with the Paris Opera, has been a constant inspiration. She taught technique and then convinced me that I had the freedom to use it.

Earliest musical memory:

There was always music in the house. My mom loved to listen to Mario Lanza and Johnny Mathis, so we kids listened, too. Occasionally, my dad would reverently take his trumpet out of the case and play a tune for us. There was always something magical about his trumpet.

"I first knew I would make music my career when ... "

There was never a time I didn't know. There was never any question. I just knew.

"Other than performing music, I've always thought it might be fun to be a ... "

Normal person (those are my daughter's words). Actually, I love fashion and it would be fun to be a buyer for a trendy dress shop.

Favorite composer and/or period?

The great composers are able to share their very souls with us. Each one offers us the opportunity to be profoundly touched by their music and each composer is unique in giving us this experience. I am always in awe of each one.

Why did you choose this pose for your photograph?

My most important work in this lifetime is to raise my children. Aren't they gorgeous? Fortunately, they like harp music.

What do you enjoy most about performing?

We can touch the lives of so many people all at once. Every performance is unique, and often there is a magic that unites the orchestra with the audience. Music is life-giving.

Other than playing great music, what do you see as the Symphony's most important role?

Education (Murry Sidlin is a genius in this area) and community outreach.

What is your favorite part of being a member of the Oregon Symphony?

James DePreist, Murry Sidlin, Norman Leyden — living the music — creating beauty — feeling the power of the orchestra from the inside — ecstatic audiences — Katherine George.

Musician Moment Player Portrait