Calgary harpist Gianetta Baril has devoted her life to sharing the transformative power of music, performing in an array of spectacular locales across the world like the Rudolphinum in Prague and on the Selaron Steps in Rio de Janeiro. When COVID stopped all live performances in 2020, she turned a huge van into a self-contained rolling home/concert hall and took the comfort of live harp music on the road in Canada and the US - stopping wherever people were in need of hope and inspiration. After 70,000 km and over 300 concerts from inside her rolling concert hall, parks, seniors residences, parking lots, schools, and hospitals, Gianetta is returning to Calgary this September.
Across two countries with a harp in tow, it wasn't just about the music for Gianetta, but the people and the stories they shared.
“Whether in a pre-arranged concert or spontaneous parking lot pop up, the music opened the space for something much deeper to be shared,” says Gianetta. “It was really about being present to the people and the vulnerability and emotions the music called forth in them. I was honoured and blessed by those moments of shared humanity."
After her extensive travels, Gianetta is poised to spend a year off the road, serving as the principal harpist for the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra during the 2023-24 season. This October, she has plans to visit the Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where she has generously donated 10 harps to various music social projects in the past. Aside from these commitments, Gianetta eagerly awaits her time in Calgary, reconnecting with loved ones and, naturally, connecting with others through her music.
Her musical return to Calgary kicks off with a free concert on Sunday, September 10. This outdoor concert presents music that ranges from Gregorian chant to Gordon Lightfoot, and will be held in the garden of a fellow musician's residence, where the porch sets the perfect backdrop as a stage.
“I’m thrilled to share my music in Calgary once again – come and be part of my final concert on this epic journey. Remember to bring along a seat or a cozy blanket for an intimate hour of melodies and musings!”
For those interested, the concert is slated for 4 p.m. on Sunday, September 10 at 1643 Broadview Road, Calgary.
More information about Gianetta