Aislinn Gagliardi

Aislinn Gagliardi is an Irish harpist and composer based in Chicago who is sought after as a performer, teacher, and recording artist. Drawing from her background in Irish dance and influenced by a diverse musical range from classical to Cape Breton, Aislinn’s distinct style shines through her music in an open and honest way. Known for her syncopated and melodic accompaniment, her compositions and arrangements offer a fresh perspective to the Irish music tradition.

Her recently released debut solo harp album, The Thin Place, has been called “stunning, a monumental piece of work from a very talented and driven harper” (Jack Baker of Irish American News). Additionally, Aislinn’s tune, “The Thin Place,” and accompanying title track are featured on the “Irish Traditional Music Archive’s Newly Composed Tunes” and Songs in the Irish Tradition playlist.

Aislinn performs frequently at festivals including the Milwaukee Irish Fest, and she regularly co-hosts traditional Irish music sessions in and around Chicago. She is an adjunct instructor at the Milwaukee Irish Fest School of Music, teaches workshops at the Old Town School of Folk Music, and has also taught at the Center for Irish Music, the Harp Gathering, the Milwaukee Irish Fest Summer School, the Madison Folk Harp Society, and the St. Louis Tionol.