Meet Skylar Cibirka | Professional Harpist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Skylar Cibirka and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Skylar, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued a creative career because I’ve always had a deep connection with the harp, and music in general. From a very young age, I was captivated by musicals. My mom used to laugh at me as I dramatically walked around the house with a cape, singing ‘Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again’ from Phantom of the Opera. The passion and beauty of that play left a lasting impression on me and ever since, I’ve aspired to create something equally moving with my harp.

Throughout my life, music has been my most natural form of expression. It’s how I navigate life’s highs and lows, how I celebrate joy, and how I process challenges. As I went through college and even considered other career paths, nothing else felt right. Playing the harp has always been my calling.

When it came time to turn my passion into a business, I knew I wanted to offer more than just a musical service—I wanted to create a full, immersive experience. That’s what ultimately inspired me to shape my brand as ‘The Enchanted Harpist.’ For me, the harp embodies elegance, class, and enchantment, and I aim to deliver that same dreamy ambiance to every performance. I want my clients and their guests to experience the same magic that first drew me to the harp. Whether it’s a wedding, a corporate event, or a private party, my goal is to add a sense of beauty and enchantment that elevates the entire experience with a unique touch that only a harp can provide.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
What sets The Enchanted Harpist apart is the deep connection I create through music. My performances are driven by an authentic passion for the harp that I’ve nurtured since I was four. My work goes beyond simply providing beautiful music for events; I strive to bring out the soul of each piece I play, whether it’s transforming a couple’s meaningful song into something magical for their wedding day or creating an atmosphere that’s unforgettable.

I’m most proud of the diversity in the events I perform for and how that’s allowed me to touch people from all walks of life. Each occasion has its own beauty and story, and I love being part of these special moments. I am also proud to say that recently, I expanded my business to include a trio collaboration with Pearlnote, featuring a violinist and cellist. I’m also incredibly excited about sharing the artistry of the harp with my students. Inspiring them and showing them how this instrument can be a transformative experience, just as it has been for me, is deeply fulfilling.

Getting to where I am today hasn’t been an easy journey. One of the biggest challenges was the health setback I experienced in 2023 with a vertebral artery dissection. It was a terrifying experience that forced me to slow down, reassess my life, and heal both physically and emotionally. However, this experience has also deepened my commitment to living mindfully and purposefully. Meditation and acupuncture have both helped me immensely, and I’ve made it a habit to prioritize mental and physical well-being alongside my business goals.

I’ve learned many lessons along the way. One key lesson is to be patient with yourself. Growth, both personal and professional, is not linear, and setbacks often teach us more than we realize in the moment. Another lesson is the importance of authenticity. When I perform, I’m not just playing notes; I’m telling a story, conveying emotions, and sharing a part of myself with the audience. I believe that’s what makes The Enchanted Harpist special—people connect with the genuine love I have for the harp and the care I put into each performance.

At the heart of my brand is the mission to infuse every event with enchanting music that brings a sense of magic to every occasion. My performances are not just about the music—they’re about crafting experiences that resonate emotionally with people, leaving them with lasting memories. I want people to know that every note I play comes from a place of love, and I pour my heart into making each event special. The Enchanted Harpist isn’t just a business; it’s a reflection of the passion and transformation that music brings into my life, and I’m honored to share that with the world.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting, there are several amazing spots in Atlanta that I would definitely want to explore together! A trip to Ponce City Market would be a strong start to the day for some unique shopping and an amazing food hall. St. Germain Bakery is nestled inside the market and offers decadent pastries. Modern Mystic Shop is on the second floor of the market and is one of my favorite stores for beautiful crystals and mystical items! The rooftop also has a mini-golf course and games, making it a fun spot to unwind with gorgeous city views. If we’re in the mood for coffee, Read Shop by The Merchant is a delightful choice, offering a cozy atmosphere and gorgeous display of books.
For a magical dining experience, I’d recommend The Garden Room in Buckhead. The whimsical decor and exquisite menu make it feel like you’re stepping into a fairy tale. One of my favorite memories there was experiencing the dessert called La Vie en Rose. It featured a vanilla parfait, meringue, and raspberry sorbet. When it arrived at our table, the waiter invited us to clap our hands over a rose dipped in liquid nitrogen, and as we did, the rose shattered with a delightful crackle, showering the dessert in rose confetti!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would love to give a shoutout to every harp teacher I have worked with throughout my life. Every one of these relationships has left little gems of knowledge that have contributed to my harp journey, helping me grow not only as a musician but also as a person. I think I may have quit playing harp before ever becoming a professional if I hadn’t started taking lessons with Maggie Lovell. She is an incredible teacher who taught me so much about playing with passion, technical precision, and a mindset that embraces challenges in all pursuits, both musical and personal.

Website: https://www.theenchantedharpist.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theenchantedharpist/

Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theenchantedharpist

Image Credits
Sole Photography
Bewitched & Bewed Photo Co.