Since completion of her DMA degree in 2005, Dr. Poeschl-Edrich is on faculty at Boston University, College of Fine Arts, assisting Ann Hobson Pilot. She teaches harp, Baroque triple harp, chamber music and the newly introduced class “Harp Pedagogy, Literature and Ensemble”. Dr. Poeschl-Edrich prepared the syllabus of “Harp Pedagogy, Literature and Ensemble”, and she is responsible for each semester’s schedule.

The class includes among others harp pedagogy, literature, teaching, ensemble conducting, harp history, in-depth discussion of specific works, harp maintenance, arranging harp music, preparing recordings, and more. The students receive hand-outs and work on assignments.

The purpose of the class is to help students understand practical aspects of work as a harpist. The student should feel prepared to engage in conversations with conductors, chamber music partners, festival organizers and music critics likewise. Also, the student should feel encouraged to research repertoire and read secondary literature at all times. Practical experience in teaching and ensemble coaching will be part of the course, as well as discussions of literature and pedagogy.

Barbara Poeschl-Edrich began teaching harp in Germany in 1991. She has directed the harp programs at three state-funded music schools. In Boston she teaches at the Brookline Music School and in her private harp studio in Chestnut Hill. Barbara regularly coaches the harpists of the Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra. Several of her students were accepted into the Massachusetts Harp Ensemble to play Irish music in the popular Reagle Players performances.

Barbara paid tribute to her former teachers and mentors, Prof. Edward Witsenburg (Salzburg) and Sioned Williams (London) by inviting them to Boston. Both visits were fully sponsored by the American Harp Society Boston. In 2007, Edward Witsenburg gave master classes at Boston University and the New England Conservatory. He also performed solo repertoire and in ensemble pieces with Barbara at Boston University’s Marsh Chapel. In 2008, Sioned Williams was invited to give master classes at the Berklee College of Music and The Boston Conservatory. Her performance and lecture of English and Welsh music was widely admired.

Since completion of her Doctor of Musical Arts degree in 2005, Barbara is on faculty at Boston University, teaching harp, harp ensemble, Baroque triple harp and chamber music.

Front row L to R, Kaylie, Azanah, Azuri
Back row L to R, Tamara, Nicole, BPE, Shayla, Jennifer

Some of her students said:

“Barbara is a very devoted and outstanding harp teacher. For me – a newcomer to the enchanted world of harp music, though a pianist and choral conductor – each lesson with Barbara is packed with fascinating discoveries, musical and technical challenges, and new ways of 'growing up' as a harpist, thanks to those challenges. Barbara is a very patient and sensitive instructor, and her unique talent – as a musician, a harpist and a teacher – is truly inspiring. It's a privilege to be her student!” Hanna, adult student


“I have been studying with Barbara for 18 months. She is a fun instructor who emphasizes technique while also letting me play a wide variety of music. I love the musical history that she has taught me about the different pieces we are working on. Barbara is always good natured and supportive, even when I make mistakes. She has encouraged me to join the Harp Society and to participate in the Ensemblefest at Wellesley College. She has also helped me with several of my school orchestra pieces. I truly enjoy studying harp with Barbara.” Jennifer, 12 years old

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