Oksana Tarasova-Kessous received her professional studies degree at The Manhattan School of Music under the guidance of the soloist of The Metropolitan Opera House, harpist Susan Jolles. She received her Doctor of Musical Arts (DMA) and Master of Music from The Moscow Conservatory under the guidance of Professor Vera Dulova, principal harpist of Moscow’s Bolshoi Theater.
Oksana has performed as a soloist with The New American Chamber Music Orchestra, The Mannes School of Music Orchestra, The Manhattan School of Music Philharmonic, and The Brooklyn Conservatory Orchestra. Her recital appearances include such prestigious venues as Carnegie Hall in New York City, The Bolshoi Hall in Moscow, and The Gracie Mansion, when she was invited by NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
She has also performed for former Russian President Mikhail Gorbachev, Prince Gallitzin, and Dr. Nona. Oksana has played harp in presentations and events such as the Faberge exhibition, the Sony exposition, LifeTime television station, the Gala 2003 event for The Culinary Institute of America, as well as at The Cipriani Club.
Oksana is currently a teacher and a tutor for many students. She is also a frequent performer at different concert halls, playing recitals and with various chamber music ensembles.