Renowned jazz harpist Mariea Antoinette has captivated audiences around the world with her soulful artistry, virtuosic technique, and rare ability to seamlessly navigate multiple musical genres.
From smooth jazz to contemporary grooves, she has carved out a distinctive space in the music industry, earning acclaim as one of today’s most revered multi-genre jazz harpists.
As she prepares to perform at the highly anticipated SeaBreeze Jazz Festival 2026, Mariea reflects on the journey that shaped her sound, her passion for innovation, and what fans can expect from her upcoming performance with the acclaimed all-female ensemble Jazz in Pink.
The SeaBreeze Jazz Festival 2026 will be held from April 23–26, with Mariea Antoinette performing on April 25, 2026, in Panama City Beach, Florida.
“It’s truly an honor to perform at the SeaBreeze Jazz Festival,” Mariea shares. “The lineup is phenomenal, and being part of Jazz in Pink allows me to celebrate music alongside a group of incredibly talented women. It’s exciting to share our sound with a vibrant audience in such a beautiful setting.”
Mariea’s musical path has been defined by discipline, passion, and an unwavering love for her instrument.
She began playing the harp at a young age, eventually discovering its untapped potential within jazz and contemporary music.
“My journey has been a combination of passion, discipline, and an unwavering love for music,” she explains. “Over time, I discovered the versatility the harp has within jazz. Being able to take the harp beyond classical settings into jazz, R&B, and contemporary music has been incredibly rewarding. I’m grateful that audiences connect with it.”
While traditionally associated with classical orchestras and concert halls, Mariea has reimagined the harp as a dynamic voice within modern genres. Her approach blends technical mastery with groove-driven expression.
“I see the harp as a storytelling instrument,” she says. “While it has classical roots, it’s incredibly versatile. In jazz, I focus on rhythm, groove, and emotion, making sure the harp sings, swings, and connects with the audience in a way that feels modern but still respects its tradition. It’s about finding the right balance between technical mastery and heartfelt expression.”
Throughout her career, Mariea has collaborated with numerous artists and ensembles, each experience adding depth and dimension to her artistry.
Among those collaborations is her work with the acclaimed all-female ensemble Jazz in Pink, a collective known for its electrifying performances and celebration of women in contemporary jazz.
“Performing with Jazz in Pink is empowering and inspiring,” Mariea shares. “We all bring our unique talents to the group, and there’s a real sense of collaboration, energy, and sisterhood. It’s about lifting each other up and celebrating what women can achieve together in the music world.”
She also reflects on the broader impact of her collaborations over the years.
“There are so many memorable moments,” she says. “Every collaboration teaches you something new. I’ve been fortunate to perform alongside some of the top names in smooth jazz, which is always a humbling and inspiring experience. Each stage and each audience brings its own energy, and those moments stay with me.”
Fans attending the SeaBreeze Jazz Festival 2026 can expect a performance that is energetic, soulful, and uplifting.
Mariea promises a show that blends smooth jazz, contemporary grooves, and heartfelt musical storytelling.
“I’ll be bringing the harp into the mix in ways that hopefully surprise and delight the audience,” she says. “Most importantly, it will be a celebration of music, connection, and pure joy.”
With its stunning coastal backdrop and world-class lineup, SeaBreeze provides the perfect setting for Mariea’s genre-defying sound to resonate with fans from around the globe.
For aspiring harpists and musicians looking to forge their own path, Mariea emphasizes authenticity and innovation.
“Stay true to your voice and your passion,” she advises. “The industry can be challenging, but if you focus on honing your craft, building authentic connections, and sharing your unique story through your music, opportunities will come. Don’t be afraid to take your instrument and yourself outside of traditional boundaries. Innovation is key.”
Following SeaBreeze Jazz Festival 2026, Mariea has exciting projects on the horizon, including new collaborations, recordings, and continued touring.
“My focus is always on creating music that inspires and connects with people worldwide,” she says. “There are some big surprises on the horizon that I can’t wait to share.”
With a career that continues to inspire and break new ground, Mariea Antoinette remains committed to pushing musical boundaries while honoring the rich traditions that shaped her craft.
As she takes the stage at SeaBreeze Jazz Festival 2026, audiences can expect a performance that celebrates artistry, empowerment, and the transformative power of music.
Connect with Mariea Antoinette:
Instagram: @MarieaAntoinette
Facebook: Mariea Antoinette Music
Website: www.marieaantoinette.com