A harpist since childhood–as well as the daughter of one–Mary Lattimore’s choice of instrument reveals the simple beauty it contains, transcending the stereotype of it being strictly for use in classical music or as flourishes in movie soundtracks. Her ability to cut straight to the heart in her compositions works the same trick, not relying on the standard glissandos often employed by traditional players, but simply reducing the instrument to its essence. Her most recent release is a duet with Julianna Barwick, Tragic Magic, and came out in January of 2026. The duo will perform at this year’s Big Ears Festival in Knoxville in March of 2026. Hear how songs by Debussy, The Cure, and Sonic Youth guided her musical path.