About

Dawn’s outstanding professional reputation has established her as a leading freelance harpist in the Chicagoland area. In addition to specializing in wedding performances, she maintains a thriving career entertaining for corporate, holiday, and celebratory occasions. As a versatile solo and ensemble musician she also performs regularly with various instrumentalists.

Dawn debuted professionally as a premiere harpist for the Drake Hotel’s Afternoon Tea, entertaining world famous guests during a ten-year steady engagement. Her graceful performance style reflects the legendary culture of Chicago's magnificent mile.

Raised in a multi-generational family of harpists, Dawn's love of performing was fostered in the rich musical environment of her childhood. She began studying harp at a young age under the instruction of her mother, Janice Bishop, who is a concert harpist in Panama and served as Chairman of the Board of the American Harp Society. Her Aunt, Linda Grieser, has recorded multiple albums with The Adagio Trio and is an active harpist in Cincinnati, Ohio. Together they have enjoyed collaborating on numerous family concerts throughout the years.

Dawn holds a Psychology degree from Wheaton College and incorporates her appreciation of holistic well-being into all aspects of her career. Beyond mere entertainment, her performance approach is to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level. She explains, "Musical expression can be powerfully transformational. It vibrantly articulates the depths of raw emotion in a manner which transcends the limitations of spoken language." Through her moving performances, Dawn aspires to enrich audiences through the inspirational ethos of music.

Dawn has instructed harp at Benedictine University and the Sherwood Conservatory of Music. She also received early childhood education through the Suzuki harp teacher training program. She served as co-chair for the 2007 American Harp Society's Institute and National Competition in Chicago.

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