Harp Starter Kit

Harp Starter Kit

My recommendations to get you started with playing the harp!

1. Choose a Harp to Rent or Buy

I recommend renting first so you can find out what you enjoy. That way, you avoid expensive mistakes!
Also, if there is a music store that sells harps near you, it’s great to try a few before making any decisions.

Ravenna 34

Dusty Strings

$2495

This is a floor harp that has a lovely bright sound. It has low/medium tension nylon strings. It is inexpensive for a floor harp, but is a really good quality instrument for it’s price.

Crescendo 34

Dusty Strings

$3625

This is similar to the Ravenna but a bit more expensive – and you can can tell in the sound. If you are willing to spend a bit more you won’t regret it. The FH34 is the next step up, so if you have more budget it’s really worth it!

Jolie 33

Musicmakers

$3999

This harp has a lovely sound and medium tension strings. It is also available in vivid colors and as well as an ultra-light carbon fiber & wood hybrid.

Harpsicle

Harpsicle Harps
$580

A lap harp, for those who prioritize portability in their harp. I recommend the Fullsicle (all the levers). Remember that lap harps aren’t the easiest way to learn as a beginner (see video above)

Fireside Harp

Backyard Music
$169 – $269

A DIY lap harp with a cardboard sound box! It comes in parts and you assemble, or you can purchase a pre-assembled one. Remember that lap harps aren’t the easiest way to learn as a beginner (see video above)

The harps listed here are not the only harps! There are many available with different pro’s and con’s. The harps here are ones that I think are good value for money as a beginner and will also be a quality instrument for years to come. Make sure that you watch to the end of the video above to help you choose!

2. Get a Music Stand

So important for posture and to prevent neck strain!

Around $15

 

This stand folds up really small and can be transported in its little case, so it’s great for performances. If you are planning on using heavy books/files, it might not be right for you, but if the main priority is transportability, it is a winner.

$275

I recently discovered this genius invention and now I use it all the time! A music stand that clamps to the pillar of your harp (no matter the size) and stays at the perfect distance, no matter where you move your harp. Works great if you want to use files or heavy books.

3. Get a Harp Stool

This will really help you find a good position with your harp.

Around $50

This is the stool I use for performances, and it’s so comfy! It has a lot of padding so that your bum doesn’t go numb from sitting for a while. It’s also really sturdy and wide enough for two small people at a squeeze! It can fold flat for transport.

$38.90

If you’re looking for something a bit cheaper, this is a good option! It is very light and can fold down, so it’s good for taking to performances. The seat of the stool is much smaller though, beware! 

$238.00

If you would like a chair with more support, this is a lovely option. It is height adjustable and it folds flat for transport. While I don’t recommend leaning back while playing, the back rest gives you a chance to break in between songs.

4. Tune Your Harp

samsung phone
Your phone
Free! (kind of)

 

You can easily tune your harp using an app on your phone. The one I recommend is called Pano tuner chromatic tuner, and it’s free on Apple and Android phones. 
$19.99
 
If you are not comfortable with your phone, getting a tuner may be a good idea for you! I used this tuner for years before I switched to my phone. The great thing about it is that it senses vibrations, so you can tune your harp in a noisy environment. 

5. Get Started with Learning!

Our online courses are a great place to begin. You don’t have to do only boring exercises until you are ‘good enough’ to play something that sounds nice… You can learn beautiful pieces right from the start, because you are working on foundational technique as you go.

With our courses, you will:

  1. Learn a harp piece note by note – no need to read sheet music.
  2. Work on your harp technique at the same time.
  3. Break the piece down into manageable chunks so that you don’t get overwhelmed.
  4. Learn how to practice effectively.
  5. Ask questions and interact with other harp players in our community! They’re happy to support and answer your questions.

Once you’re comfortable with a new harp piece at your level, a whole world of beautiful harp pieces awaits.

We also recommend becoming a part of our monthly membership community of harpists. Not only will you receive more affordable access to our courses, but also special members-only meet-ups!

If you would like to view other courses, click here to visit our online shop.