Eleanor Kirk

Principal Harp

Praised for her "especially fine contributions" and "standout solo work", Eleanor Kirk joined the San Francisco Opera Orchestra as Principal Harp in 2025. She previously held principal positions with the Illinois Symphony Orchestra and the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, performed as Acting Principal Harp with the Santa Fe Opera, the Grant Park Symphony Orchestra, and the Detroit Opera. She also appears as a frequent guest with the top orchestras in the United States.

Highlights of the 2025-2026 season include guest appearances with the Chicago, Vancouver, and Oregon Symphony Orchestras; chamber performances on the Dame Myra Hess and Live from WFMT Series; and summer appearances with the Santa Fe Opera and at the World Harp Congress.

A passionate educator, Eleanor is the co-artistic director of the Young Artist's Harp Seminar, a two-week summer music intensive, which celebrates its 26th season this year. She is also a proud member of the Chicago Harp Quartet, one of the leading ensembles of its kind. Eleanor holds degrees from Columbia University and the Chicago College of Performing Arts.