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When you start researching harps, one of the first questions is "how many strings do you need"? I recommend that you first rent a harp to get comfortable with the instrument and understand what you need from your harp. A beginner can get plenty of work done on a small harp (<32 strings). A small harp is also ideal for travelling. Some examples of small harps: Dusty Strings Ravenna 26 Salvi Juno 25 or 27 Fullsicle 26 If given the choice between a lap harp and a floor harp as your main harp, opt for the floor harp. The positioning is more comfortable and it will be an easier transition to a larger harp later. As you reach the advanced-beginner/intermediate stage, you may find that the smaller harp is too limiting. Larger harps offer a rich bass and more resonant tone. An instrument in the 33-40 range is appropriate for most harpists. Personally, I think 34 or 36 string harps have the best value. My main harp is a Salvi Livia 36 string harp (discontinued). A 36-string harp will go from a C2-C7 whereas other harps will add/remove a few strings from either the top or the bottom range, for example C2 to A6. Remember, as the number of strings increases, so will its size, weight and price. There are many brands and models to choose from so take your time to research and try as many harps as you can! Here are some suggestions: Lyon & Healy Ogden - 34 Strings Dusty Strings Ravenna - 34 Strings Josephus Moonspring (Made in Canada!) - 36 Strings Salvi Titan - 38 Strings Lyon & Healy Prelude - 40 Strings TLDR: Rent an instrument as a beginner and invest in a 34 or 36 string harp . It offers flexibility without being too large. 
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Playing music is very rewarding, especially when we are spending so much time at home these days. If you're considering the harp as your new instrument, here are some reasons why you should go for it:
1. It sounds beautiful from the beginning Some instruments sound awful during the first few weeks or months of practice. Luckily, the harp does not squeak or crack. Neither does a harpist need to worry about intonation once the harp is tuned. One can produce a wonderful tone from the very first lesson and easily learn melodies by ear. 2. It is a visual instrument If you've ever inspected a harp, you might've noticed that there are different coloured strings. The pattern is standard: Red/White/White/Blue/White/White/White. It helps the harpist distinguish between different pitches, with red meaning C and blue or black meaning F. The shorter the string, the higher the sound. Much like a piano, the notes are laid out in front of you so you simply find the desired string and pluck it. No struggling with fingerings or different positions. If you're taking lessons from a teacher, you can easily see what they are doing with their hands and do your best to replicate it. 3. It is rare When was the last time you heard a harp? How many harpists do you know? Listeners are often very excited and intrigued by the instrument. 4. It sounds great solo or with a group One can play rich solo pieces or accompany other instruments. Experiment with different instrument combinations! Hint: Piano parts can often be played on the harp. What is your reason for wanting to learn the harp? |
AuthorHi, I'm Marianne: harp player, teacher, learner and collector. You may have noticed that there is not much info out there about the harp. I hope to answer all questions and perhaps encourage someone to start playing! Thanks for reading :) Archives
October 2022
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