Dear Friends and Supporters,

We invite you to join us in a deeply impactful initiative—the Mirrored Glass Harp Fund—committed to preserving the powerful legacy of harpists whose contributions have opened doors for the next generation of musicians and artists. By supporting our campaign, you can help us restore and acquire the harps critical to the artistic journeys and growth of three gifted Detroit harpists who have been deeply influenced by this legacy: Ackeem Salmon, AnJel Mantel, and Ahya Simone.

Our Mission:

The Mirrored Glass Harp Fund aims to raise funds for three significant purposes:

1. Purchase of Ackeem Salmon’s First Pedal Harp: Ackeem’s harp journey began in Paris in 2017, inspired by his first encounter with the instrument. Since returning to Detroit, he has been mentored by local Black harpists and musicians, blending his visual arts background and love of physics to carve a unique artistic path.

Ackeem now has an extraordinary opportunity to acquire a Lyon & Healy Style 30 Concert Grand Harp, once owned by Detroit jazz harpist Harvi Griffin and played by Patricia Terry-Ross at the Detroit Opera House for over 40 years. Originally valued at $32,000, this historic instrument is being offered to him for $13,000.

More than an instrument, this harp symbolizes a tribute to Detroit’s Black harpists and their enduring legacy. Owning it would make Ackeem only the third Black harpist to carry this tradition forward—a deeply meaningful honor.

2. Restoration of AnJel Mantel's Harp: AnJel’s 1976 Model 23 harp, a precious heirloom once owned by her mentor, requires extensive repairs amounting to $30,000. This instrument is not just a harp; it’s a symbol of the deep connection between mentor and student and a vessel for continuing Detroit’s rich harpist legacy. The restoration will include structural repairs, string replacement, mechanical overhauls, and regulation, ensuring the harp is returned to its former glory.

3. Regulation Costs, Strings, and the Purchase of Three Additional Harps: We are raising funds to cover the essential regulation costs, strings, the purchase of three additional harps, and the establishment of a harp studio for the Mirrored Glass Harp Fund. These resources will not only ensure that our instruments are in top condition for performances but will also expand access to the beauty of the harp within our community. By adding these new harps, we can offer classes, workshops, and performances, creating opportunities for budding musicians and continuing the legacy of Detroit’s harpists. Your support will help us bring the transformative power of music to more people, fostering a vibrant and inclusive artistic community.

Why Your Support Matters:

Detroit has a history of producing world-class harpists who have not only mastered their craft but also shattered barriers and created spaces for future musicians. By supporting this campaign, you are not only preserving the instruments that carry this history but also ensuring that these artists can continue to inspire, teach, and create.

Your contribution will directly impact the lives of these three harpists, allowing them to continue their artistic journeys, share their talents with the world, and honor the legacy of those who came before them. Additionally, this fund will provide opportunities for the broader community, offering access to classes, workshops, and performances that will nurture the next generation of harpists.

How You Can Help:

Donate: Every donation, no matter the size, brings us closer to our goal.
Share: Help us spread the word by sharing this campaign with your network.
Support: Your encouragement and generosity will resonate through the music and art created by these harpists.

We are deeply grateful for your support in preserving this important piece of Detroit’s musical history and ensuring the future of Detroit harpists in our community. Together, we can continue to build on the legacy of Detroit's harpists, honoring the past while looking forward to a bright and harmonious future.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

With gratitude,
Mirrored Glass Harp Fund

For more information on how to support or any additional questions please email info@mirroredglass.org

Our website: mirroredglass.org