Stacey Shames is recognized as one of the world’s foremost harpists,
performing as concerto soloist, chamber musician and orchestral
principal. Since making her debut at Carnegie Recital Hall, she has
appeared as concerto soloist with The Saint Louis Symphony, Munich
Chamber Orchestra, National Chamber Orchestra, and New Jersey Symphony,
among others. Her extensive list of honors includes First Prize in the
AHS Concert Artist Competition, and a top prize in the 11th International
Harp Contest in Israel. She has been heard in recital at Jordan Hall,
The Philadelphia Museum of Art, Weill Recital Hall, the Metropolitan
Museum of Art, and Bargemusic.
Stacey’s performing schedule includes appearances at international festivals with celebrated musicians from around the globe. Her career has featured collaborations with Renee Fleming, Andrea Bocelli, James Galway, Andreas Scholl, Placido Domingo, Joshua Bell, and Gil Shaham, in numerous recording, concert and television appearances. She has accompanied and recorded for some of the most popular musical figures today including Madonna, Stevie Wonder, Tony Bennett, Natalie Cole, Barbra Streisand, Gladys Knight, Carly Simon, Elvis Costello, Cyndi Lauper, Harry Connick, Jr., Lauryn Hill, George Michael and Celine Dion. She is heard on the soundtracks to over 150 films.
Stacey is the solo harpist of the acclaimed Orpheus Chamber Orchestra with whom she records and tours. A devoted chamber musician, she is a member of the Aureole Trio, the preeminent merger of Flute, Viola and Harp. The group has released ten recordings and champions works by current composers. She may be heard on the RCA, Bridge, Deutsche Grammophon, Decca, Blue Note, Albany and Concord labels, having recorded major works by Elliott Carter and George Crumb, among others.
Stacey began her harp studies at the age of six, traveled internationally as a young soloist, and attended the Royal Irish Academy of Music, studying harp, piano and composition. She holds Degrees from the Manhattan School of Music and the Juilliard School. She is presently the Faculty Lecturer in Harp Performance at Princeton University. Her last appearance at the Festival was in 2018.
[2022]