A vision in Pastel: The Debut Album from Mélanie Laurent

November 22, 2025

Gold medalist of the USA International Harp Competition and solo harpist of the Orchestre Philharmonique de Strasbourg, Mélanie Laurent is undoubtedly one of the most eminent French harpists working today. Given her background, she has a natural affinity with the ethereal music of her compatriots. In tribute to the exquisite lightness of French repertoire, Mélanie titled her debut album Pastel, a word rich with delicate connotations. We asked Mélanie what this title specifically meant to her. “The album title resonates with me in several ways. First, it's a nod to my origins, through the pastel flower, nicknamed ‘the blue gold" of Toulouse. It also represents a palette of soft, subtle colors, as well as a drawing medium, like the harp, allowing me to paint an impressionistic universe full of nuances. These hues evoke delicacy, transparency, and subtlety, suggesting without imposing.”Read more…