Harps in the Making
LEARN FROM ANY HARP.
Harps come in all sizes, designs, and colors. There are different names for different harps, but typically fall under these four different catergories:
-Electric harp
-Lap harps
-Level or Folk harps
-Concert Grand Harps
Jills Music Studio encourages learning from any harp. A Venus Concert Grand harp is available for lessons.
Parts of the Harp
If we look at the basic construction of harps, there are many similarities between the different styles of harps. They all have a column, neck or harmonic curve, shoulder, soundboard (where the sound resonates from), soundbox, tuning pegs, string, and the feet or base of the harp.
One of the main differences lye’s in the pedals, or levers. These two mechanisms are how the musician is able to change key, if not already done so by tuning pegs manually through a special harp tuner.
Fun facts about the Harp
-With the different type of harps, each come with a unique sound and feel. Harps, though carved uniquely to their own individual style, are made out of wood. Some may even be gold platted!
-The musician can change the key through tuning the tuning peg located on the “neck” of the harp, by the levers, or through the pedals on the harp. The strings are varied in make (wire, gut, nylon) and color (white, dark blue, red). This helps the harpist distinguish what note is what string. When the string is plucked, the sound resonates through the sound board. The harpist will use both their left and right hand to play the notes written on the grand staff. Fun Fact; harpist NEVER use their pinky while playing.
Harps can range to a couple thousand of dollars to over $100,000. Don’t forget the stand, stool and the 47 strings!!
Shopping for Harps
Harps range in price depending on the style, make and model of the harp. They can last a very long time, if properly taken care of and tuned. There are “Harp Doctors” who are highly recommended in keeping your harp regulated.
-How do you know what is best for you?
-What are your goals with learning how to play?
-What kind of music appeals to you?
-What is your type of transportation?
-What is your budget?
Harpist and their Harps
I have had a lever folk harp since I was young, and still continue to play it now in my adulthood. I works perfect with my lifestyle and the goals that I have personally for playing the harp.
LEARN MORE
LYONHEALY.COM; VENUSHARP.COM; SALVIHARPS.COM; HARP.COM
We won’t spam!