Classical & Jazz Harpist, Singer, Arranger, Composer, & Teacher
Christine Holvick, a distinguished performer in the realms of classical and jazz music, has captivated
audiences with her musical prowess since her early years. Originating from the San Francisco area, her
musical quest began at the age of six, fueled by a deep-seated ambition to become a concert harpist.
Her remarkable talent blossomed early, evidenced by her first album release at the age of ten, featuring
a live concert performance of a harp Concerto conducted by the celebrated Lucie Landen.
Educational Pursuits
Professor Holvick's education took root at the Conservatory of Music at the University of Pacific in
1971, where she pursued her Bachelor of Music in Harp Performance, graduating magna cum laude.
Seeking to refine her craft further, she journeyed to the Eduard Van Beinum Institute in the
Netherlands, studying under the tutelage of the famed Principle Harpist of the Royal Concertgebow
Orchestra, Madame Phia Berghout and the illustrious Dutch oratorio and leader soprano, Madame
Dora Lindeman. Later, she obtained a Master of Music degree in Jazz Studies with highest honors from
the prestigious University of Southern California.
Professional Journey
Returning to San Francisco in 1976, Professor Holvick pursued further vocal training for four years
under the guidance of Stanford University's Professor of voice and theater, Evelyn Draper.
Simultaneously, she established "Holvick Harp Productions," her music-performing business, and
graced numerous venues, including restaurants, clubs, and hotels. Notably, she held the esteemed
positions as a harpist and singer at San Francisco's iconic Hyatt Regency and St. Francis hotels.
Ensemble Work
During her tenure as Principal Harpist with the Pacific Philharmonic for five seasons, Professor Holvick
actively toured around the Bay Area in both a flute and harp duo and the Sierra Ensemble Quintet.
Artistic Exploration
In a quest for artistic growth and cultural exchange, Professor Holvick embarked on an exceptional
venture from 1978 to 1981, residing aboard a cruise ship for a cumulative total of sixteen months
presenting nightly recitals and lecture demonstrations. After her final voyage back to San Francisco,
Professor Holvick resumed her teaching and performing commitments while refining her vocal talents
for three years under the mentorship of Annelle Delfs, the premier soprano of the West Bay Opera
Company.
Adjunct Professor of Harp in Jazz Studies
In 1984, Professor Holvick made Santa Barbara her new home where she held the position of Adjunct
Professor of Harp at Westmont college in Montecito for twelve years.
Suzuki Method Certification
To teach music to children as young as two or three, Professor Holvick became certified in the Suzuki method.
Leadership and Community Engagement
Exemplified by her terms as President of the American Harp Society for the Santa Barbara area for ten years, she was responsible for organizing events to promote the harp to the community. During this time she enrolled and conducted on ensemble of eight elementary school students to perform in various venues on Celtic harps.
Creative Compositions and Artistic Versatility
Being highly creative, imaginative compositions and arrangements continually add distinction not only to her jazz and pop performances, but also to her classical recitals, workshops, and lecture demonstrations. Although Professor Holvick is in demand as a harp soloist and singer/harpist, she also specializes in writing harp parts for recording studio artists, improvising with ensembles, and
accompanying large choral groups.
Audition and Stage Instruction
Over the years, in addition to providing instruction in piano, harp, voice and diction, Professor Holvick has been held in high regard for preparing audition candidates for choral and musical theater roles and for comprehensive tutoring and stage presence, costuming, stage fright, and stage makeup. Tapping into her skills as a trained dancer has proven invaluable to students in musical theater.
