Musician Spotlight: Julie Smith Phillips, Principal Harp

Originally from Nebraska, I started playing the harp at age 11 after first seeing the instrument casually at a community orchestra concert in my hometown.  Although it took me about 2 years to convince my parents that I was serious enough about the instrument, I was able to start lessons on a lever harp and soon switched to a pedal harp, taking lessons in Omaha, NE.  I had a wonderful teacher and my parents drove 3 hours each-way for lessons, every week (which, as a parent now, I realize is no easy feat!)   

After high school, I attended the Cleveland Institute of Music for college and received my bachelors and masters degrees in harp performance.  I was the Principal Harpist for the New World Symphony in Miami, FL for two seasons and then I won a one-year position with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra.  At the end of that season in Milwaukee, the SDSO Principal Harp position was open and I won the audition. I started playing with the San Diego Symphony in the fall of 2007 and it's been a wonderful journey ever since. Coming from the Midwest, I never imagined living on the West Coast and especially near the water!  I'm so lucky to be here!  

2. What is your favorite San Diego Symphony memory so far?

I have many wonderful memories with the San Diego Symphony including opening The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park™ with the Mozart Flute and Harp Concerto, playing in Carnegie Hall, and playing one of the many harp cadenzas - those all stand out as highlights!  

3. How do you like to spend your free time when not performing?

I have three young kids so any time I'm not at the orchestra, I'm probably with them! I love spending time with my husband and kids at the beach, traveling or just relaxing at home.  I also enjoy baking, reading, gardening and puzzles. 

4. What work are you looking most forward to performing in the newly transformed Jacobs Music Center and why?

I think I'm most excited to hear the orchestra perform Mahler both at the beginning of this season and at the end.  When playing Mahler, his music completely engulfs you, taking you on an epic journey of emotion.  It's powerful and passionate, yet playful and serene with so many colors to explore within the orchestra.  To be on stage playing Mahler, experimenting with the hall's new acoustics, it will be thrilling to see what kind of music we can make in this new space. 

5. Describe your excitement for the Symphony’s return to Jacobs Music Center.

Giddy, with butterflies of excitement!