Mariea Antoinette Talks About Her Journey as One of Today’s Most Revered Multi-Genre Jazz Harpists

Renowned jazz harpist Mariea Antoinette has captivated audiences around the world with her soulful voice, virtuosic harp performances, and ability to seamlessly navigate multiple musical genres.

From smooth jazz to contemporary grooves, Mariea has carved a unique space in the music industry, earning acclaim as one of today’s most revered harpists.

In this exclusive interview, she shares her journey, the experiences that shaped her artistry, and what it means to perform with the all-female ensemble Jazz in Pink at the upcoming SeaBreeze Jazz Festival 2026.

Q: Mariea, congratulations on your upcoming performance with Jazz in Pink at the SeaBreeze Jazz Festival 2026! How does it feel to be part of such a celebrated event?

Mariea Antoinette: Thank you so much! It’s truly an honor to perform at the SeaBreeze Jazz Festival. The lineup is phenomenal, and being part of Jazz in Pink allows me to celebrate music alongside a group of incredibly talented women. It’s exciting to share our sound with a vibrant audience in such a beautiful setting.

Q: You’re recognized worldwide as a master harpist. Can you share a bit about your journey and how you became one of the most sought-after jazz harpists today?

Mariea Antoinette: My journey has been a combination of passion, discipline, and an unwavering love for music. I started playing the harp at a young age, and over time, I discovered the versatility it has within jazz. I’ve had the privilege to work with some amazing artists and ensembles, and each experience has shaped my artistry. Being able to take the harp beyond classical settings into jazz, R&B, and contemporary music has been incredibly rewarding, and I’m grateful that audiences connect with it.

Q: Jazz in Pink is an all-female group. What does it mean to you to perform with such a powerful collective of women?

Mariea Antoinette: Performing with Jazz in Pink is empowering and inspiring. We all bring our unique talents to the group, and there’s a real sense of collaboration, energy, and sisterhood. It’s about lifting each other up and celebrating what women can achieve together in the music world.

Q: How do you approach blending the harp’s classical roots with contemporary jazz styles?

Mariea Antoinette: I see the harp as a storytelling instrument. While it has classical roots, it’s incredibly versatile. In jazz, I focus on rhythm, groove, and emotion, making sure the harp sings, swings, and connects with the audience in a way that feels modern but still respects its tradition. It’s about finding the right balance between technical mastery and heartfelt expression.

Q: You’ve collaborated with numerous artists and ensembles over the years. Are there any collaborations that stand out as particularly memorable?

Mariea Antoinette: There are so many! Every collaboration teaches you something new. Working with Jazz in Pink has been particularly special because of the synergy and creativity we share. I’ve also been fortunate to perform alongside some of the top names in smooth jazz, which is always a humbling and inspiring experience. Each stage and each audience brings its own energy, and those moments stick with me.

Q: What advice would you give to aspiring harpists or musicians looking to carve out a unique path in the music industry?

Mariea Antoinette: Stay true to your voice and your passion. The industry can be challenging, but if you focus on honing your craft, building authentic connections, and sharing your unique story through your music, opportunities will come. Also, don’t be afraid to take your instrument and yourself outside of traditional boundaries - innovation is key.

Q: What can fans expect from your performance with Jazz in Pink at the SeaBreeze Jazz Festival 2026?

Mariea Antoinette: Fans can expect an energetic, soulful, and uplifting show. Jazz in Pink brings a blend of smooth jazz, contemporary grooves, and heartfelt performances. I’ll be bringing the harp into the mix in ways that hopefully surprise and delight the audience. Most importantly, it will be a celebration of music, connection, and pure joy on the beach!

Q: What’s next for Mariea Antoinette after the festival? Any upcoming projects or performances you can share?

Mariea Antoinette: I have a few exciting collaborations and recordings in the works, and I’ll be continuing to tour with Jazz in Pink and other ensembles. My focus is always on creating music that inspires and connects with people worldwide. There are some big surprises on the horizon that I can’t wait to share!

With a career that continues to inspire and break new ground, Mariea Antoinette remains committed to sharing her music with audiences worldwide.

Her performances showcase a rare combination of technical mastery, emotional depth, and genre-defying creativity.

As she takes the stage at the SeaBreeze Jazz Festival 2026, fans can expect a performance that celebrates music, artistry, and the empowering spirit of women in jazz.

Mariea’s journey is a testament to passion, dedication, and the transformative power of music.

Connect with Mariea Antoinette:

Instagram: @MarieaAntoinette

Facebook: Mariea Antoinette Music

Twitter/X: @MarieaAntoinette