Daily Inspiration: Meet Skylar Cibirka

Today we’d like to introduce you to Skylar Cibirka

Skylar, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started playing the harp at the age of four, after seeing a beautiful, golden harp in the orchestra pit of Phantom of the Opera. I was mesmerized and begged my parents to let me start lessons. You can imagine their hesitation—harps aren’t exactly small or inexpensive, especially when there’s a chance it could just be a passing interest for a child. But once I started, I was completely fascinated, and that’s how my journey with the harp began.
Although harp technique is complex, playing felt remarkably intuitive and quickly became an outlet for my creativity. Since then, my passion for the instrument has only grown, leading me to where I am today. I went on to pursue a degree in Harp Performance, and after graduating from the University of North Georgia in 2023, I decided to transform my love for the harp into a professional venture. I formulated my LLC, The Enchanted Harpist, at the end of 2023 and I now play full-time for weddings and other special events across Georgia.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey with the harp has been incredibly rewarding, but it hasn’t always been smooth. During my senior year of college in February 2023, I faced a completely unexpected health crisis. After experiencing several stroke-like symptoms, I went to the hospital and learned that I had suffered a TIA (transient ischemic attack). Subsequent tests and scans revealed a vertebral artery dissection in my neck. My neurologist informed me that if I hadn’t sought medical attention when I did, there was a risk of having another stroke with permanent damage and the possibility of the artery bursting, which could have been fatal. Experiencing this in my early 20s was absolutely terrifying and forced me to confront the harsh reality that life can change in an instant.
I’ve always found solace and strength in playing my harp, but this time my neurologist warned that continuing to play could interfere with my neck healing and potentially lead to another dissection during the recovery phase. I had never been unable to play my harp during trying times, but this situation pushed me to look inward and find resilience within myself. I believe that the harp is an instrument that is very easy to become intertwined with, and I love the closeness of this relationship. However, regardless of the instrument, I think it is important for musicians to develop a sense of self and identity that extends beyond their instrument.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Through my playing, I focus on expressing the emotion and beauty that the harp has brought into my own life. Whether I am performing at weddings, or other special events, I aim to transform each event into an unforgettable experience, channeling both depth and beauty through the harp’s timeless sound.
I believe the harp offers a remarkable opportunity to create enchanting solo performances across a multitude of genres. My mission is to explore and showcase the versatility of the harp by continuously diversifying my repertoire, blending everything from classical elegance to modern pop, rock, hip-hop, and R&B. When creating my setlists, I love ensuring there’s something that resonates with everyone. I want the audience to enjoy hearing pieces they are familiar with, while also discovering songs that might just become their new favorite.
For my wedding clients, each ceremony song is thoughtfully chosen, and I absolutely love transforming meaningful songs for couples into harp arrangements that become a part of their love story on their special day.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Books: Every Friday growing up, my parents would take me to the bookstore, and that’s where my love for reading, especially fantasy novels, really blossomed. Ever since, I’ve had the tendency to see the world through a magical lens. I am constantly searching for magic in everything around me and when I perform, I strive to transport listeners to inspiring and beautiful places.
It feels impossible to choose one book, however, if I had to choose it would be Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross. Aside from the fact that it is an incredible book, it features a goddess who plays the harp!
Apps: Funny enough, I use an app called Finch designed to give positive motivation and keep you on track with your goals throughout the day. As you complete the goals and take care of yourself, your little bird goes on adventures and grows up! I’ve been taking care of my bird Cheesecake for 2 years now.
I am also a huge fan of an app called Headspace, which focuses on mindfulness and meditation. It’s such a helpful tool in this fast-paced world we live in, offering guided exercises that remind me to take a step back and breathe. I think it’s important to take just a few minutes each day to recenter, no matter how busy life gets.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.theenchantedharpist.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theenchantedharpist/
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@theenchantedharpist?si=dHWwUiOL-qhX8RB7
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@theenchantedharpist

Image Credits
Sole Photography
Bewitched & Bewed Photo Co.