Liza Wallace

As a soloist and ensemble musician, Liza brings a new dimension to the harp’s role in contemporary music, striving to expand the possibilities for this unique instrument in Jazz, Folk, Latin, and World music. She grew up immersed in the vibrant musical culture of the San Francisco Bay Area and now is based in Los Angeles. Liza’s music draws from the rhythmically passionate music of Venezuela, Brazil, and Cuba and the melodically enthralling music of North American Jazz and Folk traditions. Her compositions and arrangements synthesize these styles, creating a diverse musical experience meant to inspire laughter, tears, and dance!

Liza is celebrating the release of her latest album, “Waken”, with her ensemble, The Present Time Ensemble. This unique group consists of harp, voice, clarinet, violin, cello, bass, and percussion in what might be called a chamber popular music ensemble. The CD includes such compositions as “Into Your Heart” and “White Night” as well as arrangements of the Jazz Standard “Cry Me a River” and the Venezuelan Canción “Poco a Poco”. Liza has worked and performed with such Grammy award winning artists as Pop icon Elton John, Salsa composer/pianist Gonzola Grau, Tango bassist Pablo Aslan, Jazz singer Silvia McNair, and Flamenco guitarist Adam del Monte. Recent tours as a soloist and with the PTE have taken her to Mexico, Chile, and Germany.