Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Crystal Sawyer. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Crystal, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?
I want to create a student harp ensemble for children from Black Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) communities. I am passionate about listening to children and providing a space for them to be heard and respected, which is wonderful soil for encouraging learning. Because of the expensive nature of the harp, as well as its size, most children from marginalized and even middle income communities will never have the opportunity to experience the harp. I want to provide a safe space and resources to help these children to be able to experience the harp in a harp-positive environment. I will be providing the direction and support for this program without a team. This idea was formulated last year after watching a culturally insensitive choral presentation at the school where I am employed. It took me all day to process what transpired and started understanding how deeply hurt and offended I was at the gross display of ignorance. It was in these moments that I realized that I had to do more to provide better representation that centers my community.
Crystal, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am a freelance harpist and music educator based in South Florida. I have performed as a soloist as well as in ensembles throughout South Florida and the Caribbean. I frequently collaborate with jazz and classical musicians, dancers, choreographers, poets, visual artists, and healing artists on various projects. In addition to these endeavors, I direct a harp ensemble for elementary students and teach privately. Furthermore, I am very proud of the music that I provide in Reiki Circle settings and also for older adult facilities. I identify as a free spirited black woman that resides in the United States of America.
Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?
As an active creative professional, it is important to connect with a mentor. You need to be in touch with someone that has walked a similar path as your and that has been on the earth for a longer period of time. There is always something new to learn and adventures that may require additional navigation.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is the joy that is received from bringing ideas to light. Creating projects that begin as a whim or a simple concept is an amazing process. This is also true of collaborations with others that seek the same goals. Sharing such a space is often quite fulfilling.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ladyofharp.com
- Instagram: IG: ladyofharp
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/ladyofharp
- Linkedin: ladyofharp
- Twitter: www.twitter.com/ladyofharp
- Youtube: Channel: ladyofharp
- Other: Tic Tok: Ladyofharp
Image Credits
1.) Imani Warren 2.) Image 1st 3.) CeCe Espeut