GTMF Brings Sage Living Resident’s Music to Life

Alongside the Grand Teton Music Festival’s world-class summer festival programming, some of our most meaningful collaborations happen quietly behind the scenes. During summer 2025, GTMF harpist Elisabeth Remy Johnson shared an inspiring solo performance at Sage Living, featuring music primarily by women composers—and a very special original composition by a Sage Living resident.

Carrie Saladino, a skilled composer, former music educator, and Sage Living resident, composed her solo piano work Transitions years ago, before developing a rare degenerative genetic disorder that has since taken away her ability to speak, write music and play piano—but not her musical spirit.

Hilary Camino, Sage Living’s music therapist, shared Carrie’s composition with the GTMF team. Working from a recording of Transitions, GTMF Engagement Coordinator Aidan McCormack transcribed the piece for harp, so Elisabeth could bring it to life. She listened carefully and repeatedly to the recording, capturing every nuance of phrasing and emotion as Carrie originally intended.

Carrie and everyone at Sage gathered to hear the premiere of her work, performed by GTMF harpist Elisabeth Remy Johnson. Carrie’s smile spread across her face as the final chord lingered in the air—a moment of profound connection that reminded everyone of music’s power to transcend barriers and connect people through shared emotion and artistry.

“This performance was important because it gave Carrie a voice and a platform to share a fundamental part of who she is with her community,” said Hilary Camino. “People can often be seen as their disability, which is minimizing to say the least. This performance gave us all a glimpse into Carrie’s genius as a composer. Not only was this an opportunity for us to see Carrie more fully, but it allowed her to debut a piece of work with one of the most sought-after orchestral organizations in the country. What an accomplishment!”

This unforgettable collaboration celebrated artistry, collaboration and the enduring spirit of music—showing once again how GTMF helps bring extraordinary musical moments to life.