Laura Zaerr, harpist

Laura Zaerr taught for 18 years at the University of Oregon, where she chaired the harp department. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in music performance and composition at the U of O. She holds a master’s degree in harp performance from the Eastman School of Music, where she studied with Eileen Malone. Over the past 30 years Laura has produced several solo CDs featuring original compositions and arrangements of Celtic tunes. Laura has worked in various styles of music: Renaissance band, Baroque Italian Triple harp, Single action pedal harp, Medieval single row harp, and Brazilian jazz. As well as maintaining a teaching studio Laura enjoys sharing her joy of music at festive celebration like weddings and parties.

Compass Rose consists of Jeanette Hardison on vocals, George Beekman on world beat percussion, Sabina Monn on cello, Laura Zaerr on Celtic harp, and Bill Veley on bass. They started as a group of neighbors taking refuge from the isolation of lockdown two years ago, meeting in driveways and back yards. Together, they weave an eclectic tapestry of sound ranging from traditional West African chant to Leonard Cohen to Beatles to Celtic. They choose music that speaks of hope, longing, love and joy from wherever in the world that maybe be found. Jeanette’s lyrical vocals soar above the counterpoint of improvisatory cello and a filigree of harp, all anchored with tasteful rhythms of congas and bass.