Biography (Cette page est également disponible en français)

Caroline Léonardelli classical harpist has an accomplished career as a soloist, chamber musician, orchestra musician and teacher. Caroline graduated with first prize in harp from the Paris Conservatoire under the guidance of Jacqueline Borot at the age of 18. Caroline went on to advanced studies at the Schulich School of Music at McGill University in Montreal. During her youth, Caroline studied in France with Lily Laskine, one of the most celebrated harpists of the 20th century.

Caroline has completed a number of recording projects, all of which have received critical acclaim. Her solo recording El Dorado received a 2010 Juno nomination in the category of Classical Album of the Year Solo or Chamber Ensemble. The recording featured compositions by Marjan Mozetich and the title composition was a premiere of El Dorado in arrangement for small ensemble that included the Penderecki String Quartet and Joel Quarrington. Other releases include Panache with mezzo soprano Julie Nesrallah, Impressionisme by the Para Arpa harp duo, and Conte de Noël.

Caroline is principal harpist with the Ottawa Symphony Orchestra and the Orchestre symphonique de Gatineau. Caroline is a member of a number of chamber ensembles including the Four Seasons Harp Quartet with harpists Jennifer Swartz, Lori Gemmell and Caroline Lizotte, the Para Arpa harp duo with Caroline Lizotte, flute and harp with Leslie Newman, and a voice and harp duo with mezzo soprano Julie Nesrallah.

Caroline has been invited to perform in solo and in ensemble at numerous festivals including the Elora Festival, Ottawa International Chamber Music Festival, Baie des Chaleurs International Festival, Westben, American Harp Society, Rideau Hall, and Paris & Nice Summer Academy.

Choral work is a passion for Caroline. She has performed a wide range of repertoire with numerous choral ensembles. The 2005 Evergreen Wishes CBC produced concert of the Ottawa Children's Choir, featuring Caroline performing John Rutter's Dancing Day, received a Gabriel Award.

Caroline has a full class of students and is affiliated with the Ottawa Youth Orchestra Academy.