Anna Maria Mendieta, harpist, enjoys a busy career as a soloist, orchestral musician, recording artist and teacher. She is the principal harpist with the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera and has played with orchestras and chamber music groups across the country. Ms. Mendieta has performed for Pope Benedict XVI, President Clinton, President Gorbachev, the King and Queen of Spain; National Hispanic Week in Washington, D.C., the Vatican, in Rome, and for the World Youth Day Events in Madrid, Spain. Ms. Mendieta has several ensembles including Aria Bella (Harp, Violin, Voice); Madrona Trio (Harp, Flute, Viola); and Tango del Cielo (Harp, Strings, Percussion, Tango & Flamenco Dance). She performs all styles of music, but specializes in the music of Spain and is internationally recognized as a pioneer in performing Argentine Tango music on the harp with praises from The American League of Symphony Orchestras as “an exceptional and charismatic soloist”. Her creation of "Tango del Cielo", a national touring company and multimedia concert-show, is the focus of a documentary film. Anna Maria has appeared on TV, movies, NPR, and the Emmy Awards. She has shared programs with Frederica Von Stade, performed with Josh Groban, Johnny Mathis, Frank Sinatra Jr., Olivia Newton John, Moody Blues, and Barry Manilow who calls her his “favorite harpist”. When she's not pulling strings, Anna Maria is out on the dance floor as a part of the show!