Danielle Riegel

Danielle Riegel is a seasoned concert harpist with over 35 years of international experience, known for her expressive interpretation, technical mastery, and deep emotional resonance. Trained at top European conservatories, she holds a Konzertexam degree from the Hanns Eisler Academy of Music in Berlin, a Doctorate of Musical Arts from the Sweelinck Conservatory in Amsterdam, and a Master’s in Music Teaching from the Utrecht Conservatory.
 
Her early career was marked by prizes at major international harp competitions, leading to two
decades as principal harpist of the Symphony Orchestra of The Hague (2004–2020). She has
performed on some of Europe’s most prestigious stages, including the Concertgebouw Amsterdam, Berliner Philharmonie, and Vienna Konzerthaus, and collaborated with world-renowned conductors and soloists. Danielle has been a frequent guest at international festivals and contributed to a wide range of classical productions, both live and recorded.

Since 2020, she has been partially based in Portugal while continuing to perform across Europe. Nowadays Danielle performs primarily on a concert lever harp—a personal and artistic decision that offers greater intimacy, fluidity, creativity and expressiveness than the traditional pedal harp. Though lighter in form, her instrument remains rooted in classical technique and is capable of delivering refined and emotionally resonant performances.
 
Her repertoire bridges French impressionism with the modern neo-classical movement, featuring composers such as Debussy, Ravel, Einaudi, and Max Richter. In addition to traditional concerts, Danielle creates immersive and contemplative formats that invite audiences into deeper listening—whether through seated solo recitals, creative collaborations, or her signature “lay-down” concert experiences. She is available for solo engagements, curated programs, and collaborations that expand the classical experience into new emotional and sensory dimensions.