This Valentine’s Day, harpist Emily Granger is set to premiere a new Harp Concerto, composed by her husband Tristan Coelho, with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Their partnership began ten years ago when Granger travelled from Chicago to Australia for a project and met Coelho, who was commissioned to create music for harp and recorder. Their immediate connection led to a decade-long relationship filled with both personal and professional collaboration.

Throughout their time together, Granger and Coelho have shared a creative journey marked by shared adventures, including a memorable 500-kilometre hike and navigating long-distance living before Granger relocated to Australia. Granger has established herself in the Australian music scene as the Principal Harpist for the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, while Coelho has also forged a successful career as a composer and educator. Their story illustrates how their passionate connection fuels their creative expressions both individually and collaboratively.

They insist that while they often work together on projects, they also value their independent creative practices. This balance allows them to bring unique influences and ideas into their joint efforts, enriching their personal life and artistic output. As they celebrate their love and musical partnership this Valentine’s Day, they reflect on the impact their collaboration has had on their careers and their relationship.