Tomoko Sugawara Harpist

Not only her research, but the quality of her performances is impressive and is very much appreciated. ----Sam Milligan (harpist 1932-2019)

Her warm nature, artistic quality and prodigious talent give her listeners a relaxed, heartwarming feeling. --Sumire Kuwajima (Harpist 1935-2005)

About

Tomoko Sugawara enjoys playing harps in a variety of styles. Her repertory is ancient and contemporary and draws from Asia and the West. Her harps are the concert harp, Baroque Triple harp, Renaissance harp, Irish harp and a very ancient harp, the kugo.

Born in Tokyo, Japan, Tomoko Sugawara began playing the Irish Harp at twelve, added the Concert Harp at sixteen, and graduated (BSc) in harp at Tokyo University of the Arts. Since 1991 she plays the Chinese konghou (in Japanese kugo), which had arisen 1900 BCE in Iran and migrated via the Silk Road to the Far East during the early first millennium CE.

After moving to NYC, Ms. Sugawara learned to read and play Figured Bass, add ornaments, and perform it all on the Italian Triple harp. Now, she leads “Eurasia Consort,” her own ensemble, which plays Silk Road music from the time it stood in highest regard.

Her main awards are Japan Foundation (1999 and 2008), Asian Cultural Council (2007-2008, 2014, 2018-2019), the Dunhuang Foundation (2019 and 2020), NYC Cultural Affairs (2020), NYS Arts and Cultural Affairs (2020).

Showreels

Harp Lessons

Learn how to play the harp

at
Church Street School for Music and Art
Somerset Folk Harp Festival (Summer)
Online lessons

Teaches Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced levels

Offers In-person and online private lessons

Teaches Pedal and Lever Harp

Teaches Classical, Orchestral, Pop, and celtic genres

Testimony

I am writing to share my heartfelt testimony about Tomoko Sugawara, who has been a guiding force in my journey as a harp student. From the moment I began lessons with her, it was clear that she is not only a consummate professional but also a deeply caring and supportive teacher.

Tomoko possesses an extraordinary depth of knowledge about the harp, which she imparts with clarity and enthusiasm. Her teaching is marked by a meticulous attention to detail and a genuine commitment to helping her students achieve their best. She has an exceptional ability to explain complex techniques in a way that is both accessible and engaging. Under her guidance, I have made remarkable progress, and my appreciation for the harp has deepened profoundly.

What truly sets Tomoko apart is her unwavering dedication to her students’ personal and musical growth. She approaches each lesson with a warmth and encouragement that foster a positive and productive learning environment. Her ability to connect with her students on a personal level, understanding their individual needs and aspirations, makes each lesson feel both meaningful and inspiring.

Her care goes beyond mere instruction. She invests time in knowing her students' goals and challenges, offering support and motivation that extends outside of lesson hours. Her feedback is always constructive and delivered with a kindness that makes it clear she genuinely cares about her students' development.

In all my experiences, Tomoko has been a beacon of excellence and compassion. I am deeply grateful for her mentorship and wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone seeking a harp teacher of exceptional skill and character.

Beverly

---------------------------------------

Tomoko was my first harp teacher. She gave me classical exercises, as well as interesting, beautiful songs to play as a beginner, and ensured that I had the correct positioning. She rented me my first harp and helped me figure out where to purchase my first one. She set up a recital in her home where I played with a flutist. As a performer and teacher, Tomoko is always working on something interesting, always engaging with the community. Her warmth and friendliness have made me keep in touch, even after moving away from NYC. Tomoko inspired me to become a professional harpist. I highly recommend her as a teacher!

Thistle (harpist)

----------------------------------------

The first time I heard Tomoko’s harp performance, I was captivated by the beautiful music and her skillful technique. Inspired, I started learning the harp from her. She teaches beginners very patiently, gradually increasing their skills. Over more than two years of studying with her, I improved a lot. Tomoko is a trustworthy and excellent teacher, always encouraging and providing helpful feedback. Learning from her has been a rewarding experience.

Grace

Gallery