Today's guest, Kirsten Agresta Copely is a GRAMMY®‑nominated, award‑winning harpist and composer based in New York City. Her career has spanned the globe—from Carnegie Hall to Madison Square Garden, from the White House to royal courts—performing for presidents, queens, and audiences on every continent.
Steeped in classical training, Kirsten earned her degrees from Indiana University and was recognized as a medalist in the prestigious USA International Harp Competition. She's performed solo at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and toured internationally.
Her harp can be heard on movie soundtracks, major award shows, and even royal galas. She was featured in People Magazine as an "Up‑and‑Coming Young Artist"—and has only continued to rise, culminating in a GRAMMY nomination for her luminous album Aquamarine.
And now she's just released her newest album, Kuruvinda—a stunning, emotional journey of vulnerability and beauty. I listen to it while sipping my morning coffee.
It is my absolute joy to welcome my friend—the beautiful—Kirsten Agresta Copely.
First before we dive in, let's go back to 1997, at the St. Regis Hotel in New York City. You were playing harp during High Tea—and I was the hostess. I can honestly say it was one of the best jobs I've ever had. Listening to you play every afternoon… it made every shift feel magical.
Let's go back even further. What was it that first drew you to the harp as a child?
And you trained and then went on to perform at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and eventually with the biggest stars in the world.
Let's talk about Kuruvinda, your new album. First, what does that beautiful name mean?
Kuruvinda is a Sanskrit word for "imperfect ruby." I loved the symbolism—something deeply precious, but not flawless. The album is about embracing imperfection, honoring grief, and finding strength through softness. It's acoustic harp, completely unprocessed—raw, real, and healing.
It truly is healing. Listening to it made me feel blissful. Which is something I talk about a lot here on the podcast—Bliss Is Your Birthright. And you, Kirsten, embody that so beautifully through your music. You create space for us to return to ourselves.
To my beautiful listeners—thank you for joining us today. If this conversation touched your heart, I encourage you to experience Kirsten's newest album, Kuruvinda, and all her albums, available now on all streaming platforms.
You can learn more and connect with Kirsten at www.kirstencopelymusic.com
And if you want to stay inspired, grounded, and connected, don't forget to follow, rate, and share this podcast. Every listen, every review helps us reach more people and spread more light.
Because here's what I know: Bliss is your birthright - Kirsten's music reminds me of that every time I listen.
So go out and dream big, have vision for what you want, but be grateful for where you are every single day.
Thank you for listening.
