Sixteen-year-old harpist Catalina Vasquez Calderon is a junior at Northeast High School in Philadelphia. She began playing the harp during her freshman year when her high school music instructor, Antonio Arosemena, noticed her following online piano tutorials and recognized her potential to translate those skills to the harp. Catalina currently studies harp with Maryanne Meyer through a partnership between Northeast High School and the Lyra Society.
Catalina is a member of the baroque ensemble and the orchestra at Northeast High School. She has had the opportunity to attend the Albert M. Greenfield All-City Orchestra Summer Academy (ACOSA) at the Highmark Mann. Additionally, she performed in a masterclass with Elizabeth Hainen and was a featured performer at her school's 2025 senior prom as well as at the visual arts showcase.
Outside of playing the harp, Catalina participates in tennis and marching band, and she serves as the president of Northeast High School’s Italian Club.
10 Questions with Catalina Vasquez Calderon:
1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you got started with the harp?
My name is Catalina, and I’m currently a junior in my third year of playing the harp. I started during my freshman year thanks to my orchestra teacher, Mr. Antonio Arosemena, who heard me practicing piano during lunch in the practice rooms. He encouraged me to transfer those skills to the harp, and that opportunity completely changed my musical journey.
2. What does your typical practice routine look like?
I usually begin with a simple piece or finger exercises to get my hands comfortable. Then I move into whatever my current repertoire is. I like to break each piece down by practicing one hand at a time, then putting them together. I also enjoy playing along with a recording to hear how my part fits into the ensemble.
3. What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a harpist, and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge has been overcoming my fear of performing. I tend to overthink and feel overwhelmed in high-pressure moments. Over time, I became more comfortable by being gradually exposed to small, casual performances during different class periods. Those experiences helped me build confidence and made performance settings feel more natural and less intimidating.
4. Can you share a particularly memorable performance experience?
One of my most memorable performances was having the opportunity to play background music at the Arthaus Condominiums. The space was beautiful, with an amazing view, and it introduced me to a completely different performance environment outside of the traditional auditorium.
5. Do you have any favorite pieces or composers that you love to perform?
I don’t have a single favorite composer, but one piece I especially love to play is “Good Luck, Babe!” by Chappell Roan. It’s incredibly catchy, and I feel energetic whenever I play it.
6. What are your goals as a harpist in the next few years?
I hope to continue improving my dynamics to be more expressive and musical. Ultimately, I want to be able to touch people through music and inspire other harpists.
7. What advice would you give to younger students who are considering learning the harp?
I would tell them that learning the harp isn’t easy. There are moments when it gets challenging, but staying strong and consistent makes all the difference. Practice really is the path to excellence, and when you combine that with discipline, you can accomplish incredible things.
8. How do you balance your time between school, harp practice, and other extracurricular activities?
I try to dedicate equal attention to each of my passions without overwhelming myself. Planning ahead, setting goals, and creating deadlines help me stay organized and keep up with everything at the same time.
9. How do you think playing the harp contributes to your school’s music community?
I think playing the harp contributes to my school’s music community by adding a unique sound that isn’t found in many ensembles. It brings a special color and atmosphere to performances, and I enjoy helping expand what our music program can offer.
10. What is one thing you wish more people knew about the harp?
I wish people knew how complex the harp really is. Between all the strings, the pedals, and the coordination required, there is a lot happening behind the scenes that most listeners never see.
Catalina's Recommended Playlist:
