The Artist
~The Artist~
Singer, Folk Harpist, Songwriter, Story Weaver,
Composer, Musician, Entertainer
   Shari embarked on her musical journey at the tender age of five. She was molded and greatly influenced by her mother, Margie Barrett Lowe, and her grandmother, Erma Howland Barrett, a published poet, songwriter, and seasoned musician. Many a sunny, summer afternoon were spent in the music parlor of her grandparent’s farm home where Shari’s love of music was born.
  Another great influence in Shari’s musical life was her church. Sacred music soon became an important part of her repertoire. In addition to her church, Shari’s school and community offered her many opportunities for musical expression and growth. Vocal music performance and education were the focus of Shari’s studies at University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse. Following her heart, Shari journeyed with her husband to the Western Plains, and raised a family while enriching her musical background with the flavors of the West. She continued to perform & entertain, and shared her talents with generations to come through music education. 
   Shari's roots were calling her back home, so she and her husband and family returned to Wisconsin in the late
1980's. This return brought with it many performance, writing, and recording opportunities in her local community and across the mid-west as well.
   In October 1993, Shari set her grandmother's heartfelt words to music in a song she entitled, "Oh Wisconsin, Land Of My Dreams." On August 30, 2001, "Oh Wisconsin, Land Of My Dreams" became Wisconsin’s official state ballad. Shari proudly performs this magical song all across the state and shares with the many citizens of Wisconsin her grandmother’s beautiful images of a place she called home. Wisconsin State Ballad Video 
   More recently, inspired by her Irish heritage, Shari pursued her childhood dream of playing the harp. She cherishes every opportunity to rest the graceful instrument on her shoulder and to let it sing! From ancient Celtic melodies to contemporary originals coupled with her unique vocals, Shari offers an enjoyable musical experience for listeners of every age. Milwaukee Irish Fest, LaCrosse Irish Fest, Gaelic Park Irish Fest, Chicago Celtic Fest, LaCrosse Public Library, Baraboo Public Library, Hatch Public Library, Al Ringling Mansion, Wisconsin State Capitol and Governor's Mansion and Alliance Arts Council are just a few of her many treasured performance venues. She offers various music performances featuring ~Children's, Young Adult & "Young at Heart" programs ~Healing Harp ~Sacred Harp & Song ~as well as customized programs, special event, wedding & background music.  Recent accolades include a MAMA (Madison Area Music Association) award winner for 2022 “Wish You Were Here” song of the year – Poor Wayfaring Stranger & a WAMI (Wisconsin Area Music Industry) award finalist for 2023 - & a WAMI award winner for 2024 "Unique Song of the Year" - Oh Wisconsin, Land of My Dreams.
   Shari thanks God everyday for the gift of music
and for the many precious people
 who have journeyed along with her in this
"Little Heaven On Earth!"

~Music for the Mind, Body & Soul~ 
. . . . . . . May the road rise to meet you ~
Share by: