DeMaris Gaines, Harp, holds a B.M. degree from Baylor University with a double major of Sacred Music and Pipe Organ, minor in harp. Ms. Gaines received a Masters degree in Performing Arts from then Kansas State teachers college (Pittsburg State University) with emphasis on organ.

Ms. Gaines studied harp with Lilian Philips at Baylor University. Ms. Philips was a student of the great master of the harp, Carlos Salzedo. She also performed with Salzedo in many concerts. Ms. Gaines continued her study with Lilian Philips at ball State University in Muncie, Indiana.

Ms. Gaines founded the harp department at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College in Miami, Oklahoma and served as a faculty member in the Music Department for thirty years. She was asked to direct the Tulsa harp ensemble with she undertook for five years. the harp ensemble held the distinction of being the guest performers for a seven-state conference held in Wichita, Kansas in the early 80's.

Ms. Gaines teaches the Salzedo method for harp with a special interest for skill development for the students in harp improvisation. This technique is designed to carry the student into all realms of harping, classical, contemporary improvisation, and jazz.