Sunita

Classically trained Celtic harp virtuoso Sunita (born Sunita Staneslow) is a master of Celtic and Jewish musical traditions. A graduate of the Manhattan School of Music, Sunita continues to frame her playing in a variety of settings. In addition to performing as a soloist, Sunita has shared a Celtic duo with Scottish smallpipes, flute, and concertina player and vocalist Laura MacKenzie, as well as a Jewish music and classical duo with cellist Laura Sewell. Sunita has also worked with a band, Vida, that she shares with Sewell, violinist Terry Elliot, and percussionist Jay Johnson. Their album, Acoustic Passion, reached the Top Ten in Taiwan. She also plays with a traditional Celtic band, Northern Gael, featuring MacKenzie and two additional musicians. The group, which incorporates Irish step dancers during their concerts, has recorded one album, Crossing the Shannon. Sunita has been a featured soloist with the Jerusalem Symphony and the Israeli Philharmonic. Sunita has recorded four albums -- Christmas Harp, Boughs of Holly, Christmas Day, and Christmas Eve -- of yuletide tunes from the private collection of Peter Hendrickson, music director of Westminster Presbyterian Church. ~ Craig Harris