Alice Spero Keene began her harp studies in Saginaw Michigan at the age of twelve with Marion Carter Rosenson.  In her formative years, she attended the National Music Camp at Interlochen where she studied with Clementine White. She also attended Indiana University Summer Harp Workshop, studying with Peter E. Eagle and additionally participated in master classes with Catherine Michelle, Aristid Von Wurtzler, and Velma Froud. Upon graduation from high school she received scholarships to Indiana University and the University of Michigan respectively, majoring in harp performance. Ms Keene also attended the Salzedo Summer Harp Colony in Camden, Maine, studying with the legendary Alice Chalifoux, principal harpist of the Cleveland  Orchestra. Some years later, she did additional study with Anne Adams, principal harpist of the San Francisco Symphony and San Francisco Opera. Student performance experiences included: harp ensemble, orchestra, band, theater, opera, ballet, solo recitals and various instrumental combos.

At the University of Michigan, she was under the tutelage of Ruth Dean Clark of the Detroit Symphony. Upon graduation Alice began a professional teaching and performance career that has encompassed numerous ensembles, master classes, lectures, and solo performances across the United States.  In addition to maintaining a private teaching studio, Alice has been Instructor of Harp at the University of Illinois, Illinois Wesleyan University, and Illinois State University.  During her 12-year tenure at the University of Illinois, she maintained a full teaching studio, conducted university student harp ensembles, and oversaw the Roslyn Rensch Harp and Music Collection gift to the University of Illinois. Dr. Rensch, world-renowned harpist, historian, and author made several visits to Ms Keene’s Illinois studio and conferences, presenting lectures and master classes. Dr. Rensch eventually established a foundation enabling harpists to attend the University of Illinois.

In addition to Dr. Rensch, several of the world’s leading harpists served as invited guests in the studio of Prof. Keene, including Edward Druzinsky of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Maria Calvo-Manzano of the Madrid (Spain) Conservatory and recording fame, as well as the legendary Edna Phillips. Following her visit, Ms Phillips donated her Salzedo Model harp to the University of Illinois.

Alice brings 35 years of teaching experience and takes great care in meeting the individual learning needs of the harp student. She was founder and served as Headmaster of the Summer Harp Workshop of the Illinois Summer Youth Music Camp on the U of I campus and has worked with beginning through advanced students of all ages.  Regardless of age or goals however, all students will be taught the same excellent standard of technique. Prior piano study is a prerequisite, thus once the student is enrolled in harp lessons, studies in technique, tuning, and general care of the harp can begin immediately.  Preparation for solo recitals, solo and ensemble experience, church, band and orchestra performance are all incorporated in the private lessons to suit the individual needs of each student. Harp ensemble opportunities will be available to all students, providing enjoyable performing experiences within a wonderful learning environment. Instruction is available to harpists of all levels and interests, providing a foundation to the lifelong joy of music making!