Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Lisa Handman. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Lisa, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?
I love being able to wake up in the morning and know that my day will be spent performing or teaching the harp. This is always been my dream and I have been able to do this full-time since 1996. I know that I am very fortunate to have this lifestyle. It is truly rewarding and something I am visioned for myself starting in high school.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I started playing the harp at age 13, after studying piano and flute. Attending a music Conservatory prep department in high school allowed me to not only take private lessons, but also participate in orchestra, chorus, and take college level theory and Air training classes. Of course I majored in music in college and the rest of that is history. I have been well-known in the Atlanta area for many years as a leading professional Harpist. I perform with a beautiful, handcarved, acoustic harp or rare electric harp. My electric Harp sets me apart from others, as I have the ability to perform at large and outdoor events and be heard. I have the only electric harp around and it has an awesome sound! Persistence is my greatest virtue and strong desire for success.
How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?
After I graduated from college with a music degree, I found it difficult to make a living full-time as a musician. I attended school at night and got a masters in computer science and worked in the corporate world for many years. I was still performing and teaching on the side during these years. I had a certain point in my life I realized it was time to take the plunge into the music field full-time. In 1996 I walked out of the corporate door and into the music world and have never looked back.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
Starting with Facebook many years ago, I set up professional pages. From there I went to Instagram and tried to post a new story every day with the Harp included. YouTube videos are also helpful for driving traffic to my website. There were always been new social media platforms, so it’s important to keep up with the times.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.harpnotes.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/atlantaharpnotes
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/Harpnotes
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/Lisa-Handman
- Twitter: @harpnotes
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/@atlantaharpnotes
- Yelp: Lisa Handman Alpharetta piano lessons