About Me

My name is Kaela and I’ve been playing the harp for nearly 19 years! I completed a Bachelor of Music (Harp Performance) and Master of Music Studies (Harp Performance) at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music. In 2019 I received the Charles Perkins AO Memorial Prize, a scholarship awarded to the top three Indigenous students at the University of Sydney based on the highest academic results in their field.

Now I perform harp professionally with numerous orchestras including the Modést Orchestra, Willoughby Symphony Orchestra, the Pacific Opera Company, and have been the Principal Harpist for the Australian Indian Orchestra since their inception.

in 2024 I have been a part of several significant projects, such as the recording of the official Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes motion picture soundtrack with the Sydney Scoring Orchestra (see mid right), and recording with internationally-touring artist Peach PRC for her new song “Secret”, in collaboration with the Red Bull Mystery Band (see top right,) and the Gladiator II Australian red carpet Premiere (see bottom right).

In 2023, I was a part of several World and Australian Premieres, including P. Carr’s “Ubi Caritas” (WP) and “Requiem for an Angel” (AP), B. Chatpo-Koo’s Symphony no. 1 (WP), and “Bya” by Y. Xu (AP). In 2024 I am have performed as Principal Harp for the Metropolitan Orchestra and the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra in numerous programs respectively, as well as continued to perform in other orchestras and chamber groups such as the Halcyon Ensemble, alongside solo recitals.

From children as young as 4 years old through ages 65+, I now teach harp privately both in person and online, and am the Harp Tutor for both Santa Sabina College and the Wahroonga SDA school. I strongly believe that building confidence and joy are key factors to successful learning, and strive to ensure every student is able to love the harp at any level.

I absolutely love my craft and would love to share it with you too!