Mimi Harmer

Music  |  XR  |  Digital  |  Education  |  Cultural Policy

Photo: Adam Hickman

Mimi Harmer is a cellist, composer, and multimedia artist.


Drawing inspiration from the minimalism of Arvo Part, Mimi uses the cello to create hypnotic patterns which take listeners on a sonic journey. Exploring texture reminiscent of Iannis Xenakis, she works with the cello beyond its boundaries moving into undefined sounds which creates a compelling juxtaposition. Mimi also creates a dynamic interplay between organic and electronic elements in her music, reflecting the work of Kaija Saariaho among others. 


Mimi’s unique sound and collaborative approach led to the formation of an interdisciplinary project with DJ Julianna Cuervo and VJ Juu Mujica for Argentina’s Otoño Polifonico festival in March 2023, generously supported by the British Council. 


She was also recently commissioned by the Kathak dancer Mansi Dabral to create a bespoke score for Kanyaa - The Daughter, under the mentorship of Balbir Singh. 


Fascinated with the intersection between music and technology, Mimi was recently awarded funding from Arts Council England to create her debut VR piece - ‘na sera - which is currently in development. 


In 2023 Mimi had her debut at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, premiering VV: her piece for cello, spoken word and video through the Insights Digital platform. Collaborating with her mother and fellow creative artist Matt Fogg, Mimi created a call and response piece remarking on the ancestral faction within her family’s village. The video underpins the religious elements of the work. 


Mimi studied cello with Alfia Nakipbekova and composition with Dr. Jacob Thompson-Bell. She has received masterclasses from Ayanna Witter-Johnson, Tunde Jegede, Oliver Coates, Nicolas Achten, Jennifer Langridge, Deborah York, Vienna Trio, and gamba players Robert Coates and Lucas Guimaraes Peres. 


Alongside creating, Mimi is a Director for the Independent Society of Musicians, Director of the F-List for Music, Vice President of the European Performing Arts Students’ Association, a teacher at Leeds Junior Conservatoire, and a Fellow at the European Music Council. 


Her distinct sound and approach to co-creation across intersections is testament to her artistic vision and the boundless possibilities of sound exploration across disciplines.

Recent Concerts and Exhibitions

A 'rising star in the music industry', nominated by Deborah Annetts at Music Week's Women in Music 2022 Roll of Honour.

Image of the Northern Power Women Awards logo. Mimi was nominated in 2018 as One to Watch.

Nominated
2018