I love to teach and play the harp! I am currently accepting and teaching new students of all ages and all levels, both pedal and lever harps into my harp studio. I teach traditional note reading with emphasis on technique and artistry. I offer private harp lessons in my home in Utah or long distance with online harp lessons via webcam and internet using SKYPE or iCHAT.

Lessons are offered in increments of 30 minutes, 45 minutes or 60 minutes with lesson plans varying for each individual student. I teach a variety of repertoire including classical, popular, celtic and jazz music. Many performance opportunities will be available throughout the year. I present a yearly harp ensemble concert in January featuring at least 12 harps (pedal and lever) for students of all levels. Two solo recitals for the students are also presented in the Fall and Spring. Most of my students up to age 17 participate in a yearly Harp Festival sponsored by the local chapter of the American Harp Society National organization. Held in Provo each May, the students perfect and memorize two solo pieces to play for judges and receive ratings and certificates according to their performance. 

I teach those who play music for their own enjoyment and some who practice intensely for national competitions. Several of my students have been finalists in national harp competitions and some play regularly in rest homes and hospitals. I enjoy helping you learn at your level and will help you meet your musical goals.

Please write with any questions about harp lessons. I'd love to hear from you!

Teaching Philosophy

"One of my greatest joys in life is teaching the harp. I have studied with several of the greatest teachers of this century and I want to pass that greatness on to my students. In teaching discipline and the love for music, I have been lucky in that some of my students become my greatest friends for life." - Julie Keyes

Background and Education

Julie began the harp at the age of 8 in Los Angeles with Renee Sheranian (former student of Marcel Grandjany at Julliard) and continued her studies with Sarah Bullen (now principal harpist of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra).

Julie began teaching the harp at the age of 14 and obtained her bachelors of harp performance and pedagogy at Brigham Young University under Louise Pratt, professor. Julie made her harp debut at the age of 15 as a soloist with the Utah Symphony. She is a two time winner of the American Harp Society National Harp competition. She is also a past winner of the Ruth Lorraine Close Competition.

During her college years, she traveled frequently to New York for private lessons with Sarah Bullen. Julie also spent summers in Indiana studying with Susan McDonald, in San Francisco studying with Marcella DeCray and Arizona studying with Dr. Carrol McLaughlin. She completed many of her masters degree courses from both the University of Utah and Brigham Young University.

Student Opportunities

Many of her students have won numerous awards including top prizes in the American Harp Society National Harp Competition, Utah State Fair Music Competition, ASTA State wide competition, ASTA National High School Orchestra, Utah Junior Harp Festival, and full bright scholarships at music schools across the United States. Her students have the opportunity to perform in many solo and ensemble recitals. They also perform at various weddings, parties, church services, the LDS Conference center, Joseph Smith building and Primary Children's Hospital as part of the Hearts that Heal program.

"I want my students to not only work towards the goal of performing and perfecting their pieces but to make others happy by listening to beautiful music." - Julie Keyes

Julie also arranges ensemble and solo works for her students to perform.