Help Ackeem Get His First Pedal Harp

Ackeem Salmon is organizing this fundraiser.

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Hi everyone,

My name is Ackeem Salmon, and I am a Jamaican-American composer, harpist, and visual artist. Currently, I am in need of my first concert grand pedal harp.

I've been formally pursuing music alongside my visual art practice of painting and photography for the past 13 years. In the fall of 2022, I purchased my first lever harp from Lyon and Healy Chicago, marking my first significant investment and a step towards this branch of my artistic practice. Since August 2023, I have transitioned to a pedal harp, enabling me to compose and perform more complex pieces and experiences. This shift has granted me opportunities to perform within various settings including different orchestras and ensembles at notable venues such as the Detroit Symphony Orchestra Hall, Max M. & Marjorie S. Fisher Cube, and the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. Recently, I had the honor of being cast as the Harpist at the National YoungArts Foundation Annual Gala held at the Faena Forum in Miami Beach, Florida, alongside Tony Award-winning actor Daniel Watts and other musicians and performers on January 13, 2024.

The harp I currently use is rented, thanks to the support of the National YoungArts Foundation. After June 30th, I will have to return my pedal harp and will no longer have access to it. This is a common challenge faced by those of us who choose to pursue this instrument, as harps in general are very expensive and hard to afford out of pocket.

Receiving my own pedal harp will be a major milestone for me as it will allow me to continue my studies and practice without the constant worry of not having access to one. This ownership will enable me to pursue higher-level opportunities, collaborate more extensively with larger groups, orchestras, and ensembles, as well as be able to further organize future immersive concerts and exhibitions outside the context of a concert hall and classically defined settings.

The harp I am aiming to purchase is the Lyon and Healy Style 85 Concert Grand Harp. This is an excellent option as it is more cost-effective as well as has a wonderful sound that will take my playing to even greater heights compared to the student-grade and smaller harp I am currently renting.

It would mean the world to me to have your support and belief in my art to help me continue exploring the harp beyond the context of classical music and orchestra halls. If you help me reach my goal, I plan to organize a free, in-person concert/recital in Detroit, which will be live-streamed and recorded at a later date in 2024.

See the price breakdown and check out some of my work below. Please share this fundraiser on your social networks! Every little bit helps!

Thank you all so much in advance for supporting my artistic career and the success of Black artists and artists of the diaspora who challenge the stereotypical imagery associated with the harp.

Always grateful,

Ackeem Salmon

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Price Breakdown:

Harp: $26,903.86 (tax included)

Harp Strings (2 sets): $1530.24 (USD 765.12 per set)

Harp Cover set: $745.00

Harp Regulation for one year: $1000.00

Shipping: $350-$500

Insurance for 5 years: $2000