Alla Yashneva is from Tuapse , Russia. She attended college, earning her teaching credentials as a music instructor and professional harpist. She performed in many countries; eventually settling in Hong Kong where she taught. After the meeting the man she would marry, they moved together to the United States and settled in the Phoenix Metropolitan area.

Alla's first experience with The Harp Foundation came after living in the US for only a short time. She met people from the foundation in October of 2005 where she was first introduced to therapeutic harp. When she listened to Linda Petersen's stories about working in the hospital, she was very impressed and amazed by everyone's reactions to the music.

Alla decided to try therapeutic harp. The first time, Linda took her to the hospital – she was moved. She knew at that time she wanted to be a part of the program. To witness first hand the effects of harp music on the patients as well as their families was very rewarding to her.

Currently, Alla works at Saint Joseph 's hospital in downtown Phoenix . She also works at Mercy Gilbert Hospital . She is an essential fixture with The Harp Foundation family. She has produced a therapeutic harp book, taught at therapeutic harp training sessions, and worked one-on-one with upcoming harp talent.