Harp Lessons
Please make an inquiry for more information about Lever and Pedal Harp lessons.
Director, Harpist, Harp teacher
FRANCES KONOMI, FOUNDER
EDUCATOR BIO
Frances Konomi maintains a music studio in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia since 2020. As an
educator, she works with many beginners and emerging musicians. Her experience extends
beyond the harp and includes piano and music theory. She was also extensively trained by the
Associated Board of the Royal School of Music’s (ABRSM) syllabus - completing grade 8 in
piano, harp and music theory, as well as Yamaha Music School’s syllabus in keyboard and
foundation skills. Ms. Konomi has prepared advanced harpists for ABRSM examinations
among others.
Ms. Konomi holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Manhattan School of Music as a student
of Mariko Anraku, Associate Principal Harpist of the Metropolitan Opera. She is a
recipient of the President’s Award, a merit-based scholarship from Manhattan School of Music.
Ms. Konomi considers harp technique and foundational skills to be an integral part of her work
after reforming her technique in New York. During her time at MSM, Frances formed an
interest for Alexander Technique. After graduating early from MSM, she pursued an additional
online Alexander Technique course. She has also participated in additional teacher-training
course for music foundation at Poco Studio with Ying Ying Ng.
In addition to teaching, Ms. Konomi maintains an active performing career as a soloist and
orchestral musician. As the Founder of Konomi Music Center, Frances has formed many
partnerships with instrumental brands, such as CASIO EMI Malaysia and Harpsicle, from
Indiana, USA. She also regularly hosts a variety of musical artists to conduct masterclasses at
her academy. Inspired by her teaching experience, Frances recently self-published music method,
and activity books for children ages 3-5 years old on Amazon, named Let’s Play Pretend Series.
Ms. Konomi looks forward to contributing her experience from her multi-disciplinary, and multi-
cultural education into advancement of music education in Malaysia.
PERFORMANCE BIO
Based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysian Japanese harpist Frances Konomi began playing the piano at
four years old, and the harp at nine. While still a student, Konomi has been invited to perform as a
soloist for Permata Seni—a Malaysian government arts initiative for talented youth. As a child,
Frances was featured by multiple newspapers. She was interviewed by Sin Chew Daily, and printed
on the covers of the education section for Malay Daily, and the Strait Times.
Some memorable performances would include being invited to perform as a soloist for the former CEO of ABRSM,
Mr.Guy Perricone. Frances was awarded with being an ABRSM High Scorer, 3 separate years for
her harp examinations, attaining one of the highest marks in Wilayah Persekutuan, Malaysia.
Konomi’s training includes being accepted into the Malaysian Philharmonic Youth Orchestra
when she was 13 years old. Amongst those experiences was a chance to play alongside the
Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra as a youth harpist.
While studying at Manhattan School of Music, Konomi worked with many celebrated conductors
such as Jane Glover and Kent Tritle. A versatile artist, Konomi enjoys playing in unique chamber
ensembles alongside vocalists and instrumentalists. At her recital, she performed works by Bach,
Faure, Strauss, and Alan Thomas which featured duos for soprano and harp, and guitar and harp.
Konomi holds a Bachelor of Music from Manhattan School of Music as a student of Mariko
Anraku, Associate Principal Harpist of the Metropolitan Opera. She has also attended masterclasses
taught by luminaries, such as Emmanuel Ceysson, Xavier de Maistre, and Isabelle Moretti.
In the present day, Frances continues to participate in a variety of music competitions; most recently
attaining a silver prize in the professional division for the Erik Satie International Music
Competition. She also performs regularly as a soloist for corporate events and international
dignitaries including former Malaysian Prime Ministers; and continues to regularly perform as a
guest harpist for the Malaysian Philharmonic Youth Orchestra.
