JULIA GU

     Julia Gu has always been deeply captivated by the power of music and its ability to connect people across cultures and emotions. Born with an innate musical talent, Julia could hear notes before she learned words. Her early musical journey began at age of four with the piano and violin at six. Over time, her love for both classical and improvisational music grew, shaping her into the versatile artist she is today.

     Ms. Gu began her harp studies with Ellen Heinicke Foster of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and further honed her craft under the guidance of internationally renowned harpist Jung Kwak. After six months of study, Julia performed in masterclasses with virtuoso harpist Yolanda Kondonassis and Susan Bennett Brady of the Atlanta Opera. Ms. Gu began her collegiate studies at Peabody Conservatory of The Johns Hopkins University where she was a recipient of full tuition scholarship studying under the tutelage of distinguished harpist Dr. Ruth K. Inglefield. She received her bachelor's degree with distinction and completed her graduate program in Music Therapy receiving various accolades including the American Music Therapy Association Scholarship at University of Georgia. Julia earned Master of Music in Harp Performance and Literature at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign receiving graduate fellowship, teaching assistantship, and various scholarship awards.

     Julia has performed with Georgia Philharmonic Orchestra, Peabody Symphony Orchestra, Peabody Wind Ensemble, Illinois Wind Symphony, Illinois Modern Ensemble, Korea Pops Orchestra, and Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra of Atlanta. Julia has also performed at the 2018 Pyeong Chang Winter Paralympics Celebration Concert, Sharing Love Christmas Concert, United Help for International Children Charity Concert, Hong Kong Harp Festival, Young Artist's Harp Seminar as well as prestigious halls including Seoul Arts Center Concert Hall, Seoul Arts Center IBK Chamber Hall, Miriam A. Friedberg Concert Hall, Leith Symington Griswold Hall, Foellinger Great Hall, and Incheon Arts Center. 

     Ms. Gu has performed many times as a guest artist with South Korea’s leading professional harp ensemble Harpyday directed by harpist Jung Kwak holding charity concerts to help support students with disabilities and through non-profit organizations to help children around the world. She also served as an organizing committee for the Korea Harp Festival and Korea International Harp Competition.

     Julia has always believed in the power of music in which it speaks what cannot be expressed and heals the heart and mind.  The fascinating beauty of music is that it is a universal language that connects people without borders.  Her passion lies in using her musical talents to inspire children, bringing joy, comfort, and motivation into their lives and futures.  Julia has pursued a degree in music therapy, equipping her with the skills to assist patients in recovering from mental and physical illnesses. Her goal is to help individuals reach their fullest potential and lead optimal lives. Through her work, Julia aims to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those she serves, helping them navigate challenges and achieve a sense of well-being through the healing power of music.

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