Jennifer Parker-Harley is a flutist and teacher on the faculty at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC, She brings her experience as an orchestral flutist (Columbus Symphony, Ft. Wayne Philharmonic, Chautauqua Symphony), recitalist and chamber musician to her studio at USC. In addition to maintaining a deep commitment to the standard repertoire, Jennifer has a keen interest in contemporary music. She has premiered or commissioned numerous pieces that feature the flute in solo and chamber settings, including new works for flute and bassoon with her husband, bassoonist Michael Harley (www.michaelharleybassoon.com). For several years, she has been exploring music for flute inspired by literature, particularly poetry and short stories. Her CD with pianist Lydia Brown and actress Robyn Hunt, Words and Music ((Titanic label), includes masterworks by Debussy, Schubert and Reinecke, and incorporates readings of the poetry that inspired each piece. Jennifer is also a beginning improviser, in jazz and other genres. Both improvisation and the experience of being a student again continue to inform her teaching.
As a pedagogue, Jennifer has an interest in helping her students develop a mindful approach to music-making and has presented classes in mindfulness meditation at the UofSC School of Music. She has also worked closely with psychologist Todd Kays to develop a teaching approach that helps students address the mental and emotional aspects of performing and practicing.
Jennifer is actively involved with the faculty at UofSC in developing ways to address the unique concerns of 21st century musicians. As such, she has held leadership roles both on campus and in national events like the College Music Society Summit on 21st Century Music School Design, held at USC in June, 2016. Graduates from the USC flute studio are currently pursuing successful and varied careers in music, including those in the orchestral realm, college teaching, chamber music, and the music industry.
Born and raised in South Carolina, Jennifer graduated from the Interlochen Arts Academy, and holds degrees from the Eastman School of Music, Michigan State University and the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music. In the summers, she teaches at the National Music Festival in Chestertown, MD,and the Interlochen Arts Camp in Michigan.
Photographer: Leslie McKellar
Location: Edisto Island, South Carolina
