Though devastating, the Los Angeles fires this year have also highlighted the resilience of the human spirit and the strength of our communities. We are surrounded by helpers, people lifting one another up. The music community, in particular, has shown up with solidarity, skills, and the healing power of sound therapy. The size of fire relief benefit shows has varied, but the goal remains the same: to support those affected by the fires.
Over the weekend, 21 harpists from Los Angeles came together for an intimate performance at One on One Recordig Studios, joined by special guests percussionists Taylor Kennedy and Daru Jones, along with rapper Wild Child. As executive producer Minta Spencer said, “This is more than a concert; it’s a movement of music and resilience.”
This multigenerational, diverse harp extravaganza featured a talented lineup of music artists: Adrienne Knauer, Alaina Stark, Alison Bjorkedal, Anya Garipoli, Ariel Sol, Carter Williams, Chie Hasegawa, Christian Thierbach, Gabriela Gutierrez, Geo, Gracie Sprout, Jessica Brizuela, Jillian Risigari-Gai Lopez, Kaitlin Miller, Kim Nguyen, Leila Jay Bishop, Liza Wallace, Minta Spencer, Peggy Skomal, Pia Salvia, Sarah Thompson, Sophia Oleniacz, and Xochitl Derycz.
The event, 1000 Strings, donated all proceeds to MusiCares, an organization that has been instrumental in supporting musicians during these challenging times.
Harps aren’t typically included in most string sections. Their presence must be intentional, and they are usually reserved for specific settings. But this time, the spotlight was entirely on this unconventional instrument. The repertoire spanned genres, showcasing the harp’s surprising versatility from raga to hip-hop and unique arrangements, the night had it all.
Now, picture 21 harps in one space, whimsical yet powerful, handled by remarkable musicians. Some pieces were trio arrangements, and others, despite being written for a specific number of players, organically grew as harpists jumped in, blending seamlessly. Host Taylor Jones kept the audience engaged, capturing live impressions throughout the night. A personal favorite? The dreamy harps paired with lyrical wit in a modern reimagining of Pete Rodriguez’s “I Like It,” arranged by harpist Jessica Brizuela with the original lyrics flipped to:
“We spend on our harps,
What y’all have in the bank.
This is the new religion,
It’s 1000 Strings gang.”
The grand finale was nothing short of legendary. With every instrument on board, the musicians delivered a Michael Jackson tribute—featuring some all-time favorites like Billie Jean, Rock with You, The Way You Make Me Feel, and PYT—all on harp!
Can someone in LA please take this show on the road?
Photos & Words: Farah Sosa
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