The harp and the music it produces have obviously captured Cameron Huster’s heart.

Cameron Huster

2005-2006 Presser Scholar, College of Music

An ancient musical instrument, the harp can be seen in 13th century B.C. Theban paintings. The harp, in its different forms, has been played in nearly all lands from the earliest time.

Think of harp music and you think heavenly, but depending upon the form, its tuning, and the musician, all music can be played on the harp: folk, rock, jazz, show tunes, and new age. Classical music played by a live harpist has been shown to benefit heart disease patients, slowing down the heart rate and changing its rhythm, even while the patient sleeps.

The harp and the music it produces have obviously captured Cameron Huster’s heart. She was drawn to Florida State because of the College of Music’s fine reputation. “Each individual is cared about, so all of my theory, sight singing, and history professors have been excellent.” Understandably, she has a “special bond” with associate professor Mary Brigid Roman. “I look forward to my lessons; each time I learn so much.”

On the Dean’s List with a 3.89 grade point average, it’s also obvious that Huster enjoys learning. She is a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society, which recognizes scholastic excellence in all undergraduate fields of study, and whose membership is limited to the top 15% of the University’s upperclassmen. Recently, she was named recipient of the Presser Scholar for the College of Music for 2005-2006. The Presser Foundation, established by the music publisher Theodore Presser, awards scholarships to further the cause of music education and music in America.

Playing music is what she loves. “The Music program allows me many opportunities to play in a variety of ensembles.” Performance opportunities with conductor Bobby McFerrin and composer Krzysztof Penderecki; concerts with the Wind Orchestra, the University Symphony Orchestra, and the University Philharmonia have been “really moving.” However, an experience she’ll remember for some time was the concert with her as a member of a quartet. She spent “much time and energy working with the composer,” which made the concert so rewarding she wanted to repeat it the following evening.

As a harpist in a major orchestra—her future plans—she will definitely have many more rewarding experiences.