Hi, Christy-Lyn, not only are your videos a joy to watch for the wonderful presentation, but you are such a cheery person it's always uplifting! you have a real gift as a person, not just as a harpist, and we are so lucky that you have chosen to share of yourself in this way! I loved all your videos, but this is the one that really did it for me I've been wrestling for some time what kind of harp to move on to after enjoying harpsicle (I'm an experienced musician, but relative beginner on the harp), but at the same time wrestling with them mostly on account of my large hands. I've been trying to do research to find thorough yet concise information on the different features that I was looking for, but it was unfulfilling. I was still left scratching my head. This video summed up everything I needed to know! On Tuesday my beautiful Dusty strings Ravenna 34 arrived and oh my goodness, what a sound! I'm in heaven! It's gorgeous, and it's the perfect instrument for me! Thank you again, I just can't adequately express my appreciation!
Wow Linda, this is such a wonderful comment for me to read!! Thank-you for your amazing compliments and encouragement, it really makes a difference for me to know that I’m helping people with my videos. I’m so pleased that you were able to pick out a harp that you enjoy. The Ravenna is a really great instrument, good choice! ❤️
Linda Sue hello. I saw your post and I'm glad you got a Lovely Dusty Strings harp. was wondering if the 34 means it has 34 strings. thanks for your post.
Hi Christy-Lyn. I love this video. I am now ready to purchase my first beginners harp. Which are the most reliable sites for purchasing a harp online. I am writing from Nakuru in the Rift Valley in Kenya
as a violin performance major in university who was forced to stop playing due to tendinitis, I appreciate the health related discussion points. I miss making music more than anything, and harp is an instrument that's always spoken to me, so knowing there's options to make it adjustable to my requirements is really helpful. Here's hoping I can learn harp to get myself back into the world of music
So sorry to hear about the tendinitis! If you get a low tension harp and make sure you learn good technique to prevent strain on your hands, perhaps it might be the right thing for you! After learning a bit of basic technique you might want to invest in a consultation with a music ergonomist (about $60 US) to check that you aren’t causing pain or injury by your technique. All the best!
Have you thought about the Theremin!? It may be a perfect option for you because you don’t touch it. In addition it’s tones mimic violin and other strings when set to different octaves.
I’m kind of in the same fix- playing the violin for so many years and I can’t hold it under my chin - my neck muscles are all screwed up and I get severe migraines- I just can’t believe the hours and orchestras and competitions and everything I put into the violin to end this way- so sad. I was thinking the harp- maybe to get some musical enjoyment somewhere just for me
Buying harp without knowing is really tough! My first harp was a very cheap harp (budget limitations) bought online, without a known brand. Just waste of time! Terrible levers and not tuned. I had to return it and rent a Harpsicle from my harp teacher. As I live in Ireland, I got to know a small harp maker (Callan Harps) through a friend who also plays the harp. I could go there, play the harps available and pick one. He had all this options you mentioned, but best of all: if you buy the lap harp, when you upgrade to the floor model you would have a discount if returning the small. So, it was great for budget limitations. Now I have the big one, with native timber and it has beautiful wood patterns, great sound!
I dont know anything about the harp - and dont plan to buy one, but i could watch/listen to Christy-Lyn talk about pretty much anything. You have a calming nature
Haha yes she totally does!🤩 And it's super helpful for if one ever did want to learn the harp- it could feel daunting, but when you're learning from someone who makes you feel calmer- it definitely helps😋 xx Nicole, LTH Team member
Such a helpful video - many thanks! My husband bought me a harp a few years back after overhearing me say "I've always wanted to play the harp." He claims he has never heard "I've always wanted . . . " come out of my mouth before. I'm a violinist, but had wanted to learn harp! Anyway, he bought me a lovely little 24 string lap harp ('County Kerry', with C and F levers only) and I finally started lessons a few months ago. The limitations were almost immediately clear to me. I rented a Dusty Strings Allegro (26 strings), and have been doing my research - leading me to decide on the Crescendo 34. I already had the plans in place to go pick it up tomorrow, and then came across this video. You have given me such confidence in all the issues I sorted through to get to this decision. I will keep the lovely lap harp - maybe the sweetest gift of love I have ever received. But I look forward to continuing my learning on the 34 string one!
Hi ChristyLyn, enjoying a Dusty Harp 34 string that I literally found under the Christmas tree more than two years ago.. A friend recommended it t my husband. Lucky me!!
This was very informative and helpful in my journey of rekindling my passion for music. I was a guitarist for years until I developed a neurological disorder that wrecked both of my hands with chronic pain in college. I've gotten it to a point where it's much more manageable, but for now returning to guitar is not feasible. It seems that fretting is the motion that seriously inflames my wrists and not plucking, so I'm looking into harps as an alternative. I've actually already started my harp journey. Sort of. I'm playing a cheap, 19 string lyre that only plays in one key. It's capabilities are seriously limited, but it sounds beautiful and I'm making music that fills me with passion again. I still want to upgrade to a lever harp one day and this has given me a much clearer picture of what that would look like and when it might be reasonable. The only issue is that lyres and harps are basically strung backwards from each other. That's going to be a fun brain exercise when I eventually get there.
Thanks for this video - I am getting a lap harp, but it comes with legs - so it is a best of both worlds and it is a double. LOL. I know might be complicated - but I have played before - just been awhile. I cannot wait to get it now. :)
Thank you, Beautiful Lady for sharing your gift as a harpist/musician and for your encouragement! I have always wanted to play the harp and now I shall pursue my desire… Thank You and God bless you!
I spent months researching and I’ve had 4 harps since then, a harpsicle (perfect little travel harp, but lap harps are more difficult for beginning harpists) a Blevins (no longer in business) which I did not love. It had mediocre resonance, was very heavy for its size, and had Loveland levers, which I will never ever use again. I truly dislike Loveland levers for so many reasons. I have a Salvi Aida which has nice tone and good levers, but it’s voice is a bit quiet, especially noticeable when it’s outdoors. It’s a good price range for a new harpist and the company is well known. The Aida is no longer being made, but they have the Mia, which is pretty much the same thing. But the love of my life is my walnut Heartland harp. It’s booming in the bass, it twinkles at the top, with all the middle treble ringing like crystal. It has a curved sound board so it doesn’t actually lean on my shoulder, which is good for my bursitis. They no longer make wooden harps (they are exclusively carbon fibre now) but the CF harps are also amazing! They let me take one to my room for the night while I was at a harp festival in Canada and it was amazing! So light. Someday I’ll own one!
I just bought my first harp. She has full levers, 27 string cherry wood heartland harp a local instructor had in the market. Beautiful harp and sound is amazing. So blessed to have her as my first harp.
I am a complete novice but I am a pianist and also played the flute can read music caught this video and am now completely hooked in wanting to play the harp. I suffered a fracture to my left wrist all the bones were shattered I have a plate in my left wrist this was nearly 7 yrs ago it's strong I drive type ski but now can't play the flute due to restrictions piano is no issue hence the harp is something I can play with my disability!! Thank you amazing instrument.
Fantastic video Christy-Lyn! I was lucky with my first harp, but I sure could have used a video like this to help navigate that big decision. Great job!
I just discovered your channel and I already love it! I always wanted to learn how to play the harp, but never had the time to do so. Now, however, I am searching for a new hobby and thought that this might be the right thing and moment. Looking forward to watching more videos!
I (61) like your videos and they help me a lot to find “my” harp. I am a beginner in playing harp, but I have a lot experience (> 40 years) in playing organ in church… In our city (Germany) is a harp shop and the owner offers a second-hand harp from 1997, Camac lever harp with 36 light-tension gut strings. After your recommendations this could be a good harp for beginners. Next week I will see and hear this harp, and may be…
Thank you I am wishing to buy a harp soon I will be a complete beginner my husband has early dementia so I feel this would be lovely for him to listen to whilst I learn to play rather than my guitar or violin or even piano these instruments seem to make him agitated but when I play any of your harp music to him he calms down relaxes which in turn makes my life easier I have always wanted to try and learn how to play the harp so now seems to be my calling to be able to purchase and learn to play thank you for being an excellent teacher I am learning so much from your videos you play so beautifully it brings a tear to my eye 💜🌹💜
Music has a healing effect. But each instrument has a character of its own. Harp music is very gentle and has a silver-sound and this is what your husband likes...
I had wanted to buy a harp for a while, and I watched your video on a whim last week. I was instantly inspired, and your video was extremely helpful in picking out what I wanted. I am fortunate to have a harp store literally down the street from my home, and I am now the proud owner of a Dusty Strings FH34. Thank you, Christy-Lyn!!!!
I don't have any interest at all in harp, but I play piano and have been dabbling in some guitar recently, so here I am. Different instruments are endlessly fascinating, even if they're definitely not gonna happen for me for one reason or another. Buying guides don't sound like something one would watch for an idea of what an instrument is about, but I think there's some interesting stuff to learn from what people keep in mind when purchasing something.
Hi. Wonderful video and advice. I am 60 years old and I’ve wanted to learn to play the harp for as long as I can remember. Toward the end of this video, you said something about blessing people with beautiful music. That is my desire in learning. I work with the elderly and disabled population of people. I would like to play worship music for myself and others. Thanks for your tips and encouragement. God bless.
This is such good information... I I have been rather confused by all the different choices in the many many different harp makers products on offer on the Internet, especially as I live somewhere where there isn't a local harp shop around the corner. I love the fact that you consider all the key things that we should need to think about when enjoying an instrument in the future, so I find it very helpful. . I have started off with a secondhand 32 string floor harp which turns out to have been a good choice for me, but I now need to get a portable harp because I can't bear to be parted from my instrument when I go overseas. It is quite bewildering as you say but this video helps a lot. I also want to say thank you for your harp instructional videos. You communicate so much enthusiasm and joy of playing and I have found your videos very helpful..
i'll be getting a lap harp for various reasons, but admittedly the largest reason is the price point. It's an instrument i'm not sure i'll regularly play and want to learn simply for myself as an easy going hobby. If i get to the point where i need more strings or enjoy it so thoroughly, i will save for a floor harp later down the line. Another reason is being able to take it outside would be lovely. I spend a lot of time cramped up in my study, and being able to take it out to the little woodland for an hour to practice and take a break from my assignments with some fresh air sounds like a nice idea.
@@LearningtheHarp Well i have a little saved up, but it will probably take me another month or so to get all the funds together. luckily a lot of reputable online stores in the UK do payment plans now which make it much easier on my crying uni wallet. I would go to look at some harps in person, but there are sadly not any stores anywhere near where i live that sell the wonderful instrument.
Thank you Christy-Lyn! The best almost half-hour time I've spent listening to your video! So helpful! I'm looking forward to purchasing my 2nd harp someday and now I am a more-informed person, thanks to you! (thank you, too, Cara!) :)
This is such a helpful video! I've always been interested in harps but have never known much about them. I didn't realize how many aspects there were to consider, and this made everything very easy to understand and compare!
Wow!! Thank you so much for committing to creating this video. i have been looking for a good video to help guide me with highlighted information for choosing my harp. thank you!!
Christy-Lyn thank you for fabulous videos. I’m having my first beginners harp class in three weeks and I’m so excited! I subscribed to your channel a while ago and my fingers are itching to get started! I’ll be using a hired harp to begin with and this video, and your others have been so informative. I have previously looked at harps to buy online and become very confused so your check list will help a lot!
Just to say that sometimes you can strike lucky with a Pakistani harp. I have had a wonderful time with my little Mary Anne for the last year - she has a beautiful tone, holds her pitch astonishingly well and as I am now transitioning to a higher-spec harp I still intend to keep her, as I can carry her around to sessions and she's just right for accompanying Gaelic songs.
Christy-Lyn this video is really well thought out and explained. Thank you! For me, the deciding factor, was the sound of my harp. I arranged skype sessions with 2 different harp makers (it would have been 3, but the third company had become frustrated with all my questions, and had stopped responding to my emails which made me feel they were not interested in doing business). So... if you cannot get to a place to test harps - use skype and have the seller play for you! If I had realized how important the "extra" strings would be, I would have gone for a "bigger" harp. Yes, bigger would take more space, and I didn't know I would stick with the harp. But I do have a really good harp with lovely deep rich sound (THE deciding factor was my harp's sound). The maker's (Teifi Harps in Wales) biggest lever harp (Eos) would have been a better choice and would ultimately have cost about the same, but would have been a bit heavier. Transport! I have rediscovered baby prams! Someone was discarding a small baby pram (folds almost like an umbrella), and I have repurposed it for transporting my harp! I've added two "belts" to make sure my harp doesn't tumble out if the pram hits a bump, and it has simplified my life and getting around SOOOOOOOOOO much. I can hop on and off city buses with my harp, basically feel I can go anywhere. Can actually just unbuckle and unzip (it travels in its travel bag) it and play without removing it from its "pram"., then rezip and rebuckle and keep going. Me and my unusual "baby". And most "good" harps maintain their resale value. And finally, one more thing: find someone to help you! Great idea. Find a harpist. How? Ask your nearest symphony orchestra if they know of ANY harpists. There probably is at least one whom they know of. Get the names /contact information for all whom they know. Contact the harpists one at a time until you find one who will help you. You have very good chance that they will help!
Just today, I ordered my first harp. A 24 month rent to own, ravens 26 seemed good. A ds fh26 used and pristine and with financing was difficult to pass up. Since I really want to do harp therapy, I chose full sickle se therapy package was my choice. It won’t look good at weddings, but, by the time I am ready to play for events, I should be able to afford a nicer harp. Thanks for your videos!
I have been very lucky with the little 12-string Roosbeck I bought. I'm in my 70s and have rheumatoid arthritis -- there are days when I can't lift either of my bigger harps into playing position. They are a Dusty Strings Ravenna 34, and a 26-string Blevins (weighs a TON!) But I can always play Roselyn (the Roosbeck). Now I get a kick out of arranging classical music for her - it's a fun music-theory challenge. Her tone is not brilliant, of course, but not bad either. Music friends have described her as "sweet" sounding. She is my little buddy - my arthritis-friendly harp - and I do not regret buying her at all!
I’m looking to buy a harp but I’ve never played a harp or any instrument besides the recorder that they made us play in 4th grade, I’ve forgotten how to read sheet music aswell so time to study up!
Thank you SO much for your video! I love classical music. I play the flute and want to learn how to play the harp. I adore how informative your video is overall. Sadly, I don't have anyone who plays instruments in my life currently so I have no one to turn to for advice. This video was so well put and thorough. Thank you a ton!!!!💗🙌
It is so sad to see all the negative comments that are made about cheaper harps.I wonder how many South Africans can actually afford to buy a harp that is made in the USA for example and import it to South Africa
Yes, it's a pity that the harp is out of reach for so many people! There are no commercial harp makers in South Africa that I know of. But I hope someday soon that will no longer be the case. It's certainly exciting to see all the (relatively) affordable but good quality instruments coming out in the US these days... so the time is coming soon, I think!
Thank you for advocating a good quality instruments. When a new music student starts out they are referred to the cheap instruments which in the end is more difficult to play and discourages the student.
Thank you so much for this video, bless your wonderful soul ❤! I’ve been shopping around for a harp to begin however I had no idea which option to go for. I play multiple instruments so I love to pick the best option, I appreciate that you broke down every aspect of the harp !
Hi I'd just like to say I agree with everything the last person said on your comments section.....I feel inspired to play such a heavenly instrument and make heavenly music 🎶 even though I'm totally new to the harp! I love the haunting celtic songs so ill be focusing on a harp that will give me that vibe! Thank you for sharing your videos.....so helpful!
I love my harp .... The tone is incredible. I have a Double Strung & just use the left hand score on my second set of strings. I will, eventually be able to do contrapuntal variations, etc. With illness having knocked my socks off, my harp is gathering dust. Boo Hiss. It's so incredibly frustrating. However, the day will come & I WILL LEARN!
Thank you so much! I am renting a Salvi Mia floor harp from Lyon & Healey in Chicago. I am so excited! I do have a lap harp now that I have used that I actually got at a resale shop, but I have really wanted more strings & a nicer tone. Your encouragement has really helped me. It is scary to get a different harp, but I tried it out in Chicago and I loved it.
Thank so much. It’s been a deep and silent desire to learn to play the Harp. But I have this vision in my head of me playing so beautifully one day. So far this Is my first introduction starting with you to entertain this idea. Now I so need guidance. This video was very helpful but it’s nothing like having a real person lead the way. Thank you. Do you have suggestions on where to purchase my first harp.
I really like to buy a Harp.I mean I really really want to buy and learn how to play it. But my dad said that we still doesn't have the budget to buy one😢😢😭😭
Thank you, Christy-Lyn! I’m about to buy my first harp and this was very helpful! Yes I’m nervous, but you’ve made me feel better about the one I want!
Thank you, Christy-Lyn! I have decided that I need a floor harp, and am about to do it! My sweet little Celtic harp is lovely, but a bit limiting. You've provided a great deal of useful info, and I can now go on my harp hunting adventure with a bit of confidence!
I love your videos, so enlightening. I'm a flautist and an aspiring harpist, it's been my dream since elementary school but there are many challenges here in Nigeria making this dream hard to realize.
Hi Ibrahim! I had another person from Nigeria asking about harp yesterday. Was that also you? Here is what I suggested for getting a harp: Hi! I don’t know the best place to get a harp in Nigeria, I imagine you would need to order online directly from a harp maker in the US. I would recommend the Ravenna 34 from Dusty Strings - it’s a good solid harp that you can start on, and it has enough strings that you wouldn’t need to upgrade too soon. You could try emailing or phoning Dusty Strings directly at their harp shop in Seattle, and see what they say about shipping a harp to Nigeria. They are very helpful! Once you have a harp, you can learn through the internet, lots of people are doing that! This is the reason I create online courses, so that people who don’t have access to a harp teacher can learn wherever they are in the world 😍
You could also build one! Depending on where you are there, you might have access to really high quality wood! It takes a bit of labor, but you can cut and plane all of the pieces with hand tools. Harps arent that big and you should be able to get the wood you would need from a fairly small tree. Would just need to buy the strings and hardware then.
Cape town!!! Totes have to meet you sometime, would love to actually see a harp in the flesh! A burning interest has just fired up in me, keen to learn more about harps
A wonderful amount of information re: types and purchasing. The segment on what and where to purchase are especially valuable. I was about to buy one made no telling where when I came across this valuable video. Thank you so much for making all of this available to a total novice like me. I have changed my thoughts of what and where to buy,. It was intersting to me that you like the cardboard sound boxes, whichIlooked at and decided against. I'll look again.
I have always loved the sound of harp music but intimidated by all those beautiful strings. You have such a loving spirit; I sense your passion and willingness to share it. I am going to learn to play this beautiful instrument. :-) I look forward to learning from you. :-)
I have a question. I have 22 strings harp which is tuned from c2 count from the longest string and its pitch range is 3 octaves. So the highest note is c5 isnt it ?? Is it weird if i use harp to play asian melodies Thanks
Thank you so much for that inspiring video about playing the harp; it has made me feel better as you mention a harpsicle and that is what I have bought recently; I was worried that perhaps the quality would not be very good but you are so encouraging and positive that now I feel better about my decision. And now all I have to decide is where I can learn harp fairly cheaply as I took harp lessons before and they were very expensive and I wondered if I might find lessons cheaply online but I shall have to look around the internet! Bless you for your encouragement Christy-Lyn!!
I’m so glad you feel encouraged, Gwenn! I’m sure you will have fun learning 😃 If harp lessons are too expensive for you, I recommend trying my free course “How to play the harp: start here” which you can find at learningtheharp.com/shop. And then if you like that, you can try the beginner bundle which is good value for money, to learn your first 3 pieces from online courses I’ve made. Hope that helps!
Wonderful in-depth information! I’m going for a Dusty Strings brand. Very lovely harps for affordable prices. I’m still saving, but hopefully soon I can bring my harp home. 🙂🎼
I just bought my first harp from Melody’s in Cypress, Tx and John told me about your TH-cam channel! I’m loving your channel so far! (And my harp is amazing 👀) 😁
WOW! What an amazing video! You are so full of joy! Thank you SO much! 🙏🏽😊 I’ve wanted to play the harp for years and was told to learn the piano first and I should have just said no. I learned the piano, but now I have not played for about 8 years and am still terrible with the Bass Clef 😬 Anyway, I want to make the change and sell my piano and buy a harp 😊 This will help me tremendously, thanks again! I can’t wait to watch all of your videos 😊😊😊
This is so helpful. The information is solid, your bright smile is contagious and as a beginner I'm really happy I found your channel. THANK YOU! Subscribed.
Thanks! I hope I can get in touch with you. I have specific questions about my harp that I already have. You were very informative, but I just have to pin this all down to MY harp. Thanks
Hi Ed! I’m glad it was helpful 😊 Why don’t you post your questions in the comments of this video and we’ll see what we can do to answer your questions here. Otherwise if you want a more in depth answer and to chat about it, you could book a once-off with my co-teacher Carrie (I don’t currently have any slots available). Christy-Lyn xx
You are so lovely and encouraging. I am so thankful for this video I've never thought in a million years that I would actually take this seriously but with your help I think I might! Thank you so much :( ❤
You are talking about great choice. Unfortunately in my country there's a very limited choice available for beginner harpists. After a long period of just waiting to see what would turn up in the market, I ended up buying a Salvi Titan 38-string lever harp. It was quite expensive, but actually I'd have been happy to splash out a little bit more on a real good quality hand-made harp made of solid natural timber, even if it had been second hand. There was no chance for such a deal here, unfortunately. Being a long-time guitarist, for 3000 bucks I'd have expected all solid wood and a cedar soundboard, but, of course, Salvi's beginners' models have a laminated birch neck and an okume plywood soundboard. So I'm not all satisfied with the deal... Anyway, the sound and the overall quality is decent, the instrument is a beauty, so I will try to make the most of what I have.
I'm thinking of buying harpsicle, because I dream to play in the church and serve people everywhere, so I want to bring my harp around. But, as you mention, it's quite difficult to learn it, isn't it? I do hope that you will do a lap harp/ harpsicle tutorial in the future..Thanks a lot 😊
Sella Selinda Hi Sella! That’s very exciting for you, so soon you’ll be getting your Harpsicle!! 😍 What kind of tutorial do you mean - like how to play the harp from the very beginning?
Sella Selinda Hi Sella! That’s very exciting for you, so soon you’ll be getting your Harpsicle!! 😍 What kind of tutorial do you mean - like how to play the harp from the very beginning?
My first harp was a 19-string harp from Mid-East. It was good for my situation at the time so I don't regret buying it, but just like you said the levers are in the wrong place! If I try to raise one the pitch goes up by more than a half step.
I plan to get a harp later this year, I am only interested in lever harps as using for folk music vocal accompaniment, so I can accompany my daughter. Currently I use guitar & piano but feel some music would just work better with a harp. I have no harp stores remotely near me here in Australia but after listening to harps online decided I want to go with dusty strings fh36, now I just need to start saving …
Hi Christy-Lynn! Lovely to see you, as always. This video is a goldmine of information, I'll definitely come back to it when my harp time comes! I didn't know that the material of the strings affects the sound of the harp (it makes sense, I just never considered it). If I could buy a harp now, I would go for the Ravenna 34. I love the sound of Dusty Strings harps!
Hi Eri! Oh it’s so good to hear that this video has helpful for you... I’d rather share everything I know so you don’t have to do so much research! 😊 The Ravenna is a great choice, lovely harp 👍🏻
I currently own two harps (a £14,500 brand new Aoyama Orpheus 47 that I managed to drop to £11,000 as a student and a Ravenna 34) my little sister has won national competitions on the Ravenna and I highly recommend it. It's a lovely harp and we're debating whether to keep it alongside our concert grand.
Thank you for your information. I am wanting to learn the harp, and had no idea where to start and have watched many videos online about this since September. Yours have resonated with me. I am in my early 50s so a late starter, and I have a right arm/hand injury that I am looking at wanting to strengthen my fingers, and as a child played the organ ( not well) for 2 years, but now my little finger on the right, is hard to control and doesn't work. I ( think) I'm at the point of looking at getting a harp on hire to learn to play. I would love to be able to join the church band. I have had to learn to be left handed, and believe that music will help me to grow.
In Hungary there ist a harp maker who does very affordable harps with a very good quality and there is not a big soundboard needed, bescause they have a huge Sound.
Hi Chrissy-Lyn! I love watching your videos! I’m considering starting harp private lessons once COVID calms down more. Do you suggest a beginner start with a lever or pedal harp?
First of all I love your videos, you're such a bright and lovely person and your videos are a joy to watch!!! I know this video is a few years old but maybe someone might be still reading/watching this and able to help with my harp dilemma. I used to live in Germany and moved to Australia a few years ago. In the process I had to sell my harp and wanted to buy a new one once my family had settled in but with covid (and a likely long travel ban for Australia) I'm in a harp dilemma at the moment. I used to play a Celtic Isolde, I went to the Camac store in Berlin and chose "my" harp based on which one resonated the most with me since I had 0 experience with harps before. I took lessons for about one year before moving overseas. At teachers place I played either an Aoyama or Salvi Mia. Over time I realised that the string tension of my teachers harp, especially the Aoyama, was too strong for me, while the Celtic Isolde felt too "floppy" as my technique advanced. I love the sound and feel of carbon strings but wouldn't mind giving synthtic gut or nylon a go. I want to play mostly Celtic music but not be limited in choice of repertoire since I love different styles of music. That said, I care little for "classical" pieces like the Moldau or Wagners operas. I have considered buying a Camac Excalibur because I'm in love with the sound, deep bass and rich tones and the medium string tension sound appealing; and overall I was very happy with Camac quality. The problem is that there are very few harp stores in Australia, so I cannot just walk into a store and try different models like I could back in Europe. I have recently also considered the Salvi Una (deluxe) because I love the design and colour of the harp and I've heard that SilkGut should have medium string tension. There is a Salvi store near my place (2 hours drive is "nearby") but, because of the pandemic and border closures, most harp stores have very limited stock and shipping costs are very high. I found some great videos of the Excalibur but not so many of the Una. Being a huge Omnia fan I'd also consider a Triplett although I'd prefer Camac or Salvi. Has one of you played (or heard) either of these harps before and can give me a honest review? Please don't recommend other brands and don't tell me that I "must" play the harp before I buy it. My current situation simply doesn't allow travel (and the borders might stay closed for many more months or even years) otherwise I would have gone to the Tokyo Camac store by now. I don't like the look of Dusty Strings and I've looked into countless harp other harps but so far, the decision is mostly between the two mentioned above. Thanks for your advice!!!
If you want a cheaper high quality harp, you could order one from resonance harps, Russia. They offer a variety of models in different colours and embellishments. The sound is sweet, but not crisp, very gentle
![10 Rules of Harp Fingering [with FREE cheat-sheet!]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/-a35xmeI1Ec/mqdefault.jpg)
Hi, Christy-Lyn, not only are your videos a joy to watch for the wonderful presentation, but you are such a cheery person it's always uplifting! you have a real gift as a person, not just as a harpist, and we are so lucky that you have chosen to share of yourself in this way!
I loved all your videos, but this is the one that really did it for me I've been wrestling for some time what kind of harp to move on to after enjoying harpsicle (I'm an experienced musician, but relative beginner on the harp), but at the same time wrestling with them mostly on account of my large hands. I've been trying to do research to find thorough yet concise information on the different features that I was looking for, but it was unfulfilling. I was still left scratching my head. This video summed up everything I needed to know! On Tuesday my beautiful Dusty strings Ravenna 34 arrived and oh my goodness, what a sound! I'm in heaven! It's gorgeous, and it's the perfect instrument for me!
Thank you again, I just can't adequately express my appreciation!
Wow Linda, this is such a wonderful comment for me to read!! Thank-you for your amazing compliments and encouragement, it really makes a difference for me to know that I’m helping people with my videos.
I’m so pleased that you were able to pick out a harp that you enjoy. The Ravenna is a really great instrument, good choice! ❤️
Linda Susan 2686 and 9
I am a beginning harpist too and the 26 string rees harp is fun. I recently upgraded to a 36 string Lyon and Healy troubadour VI. Its beautiful.
Linda Sue hello. I saw your post and I'm glad you got a Lovely Dusty Strings harp. was wondering if the 34 means it has 34 strings. thanks for your post.
Hi Christy-Lyn. I love this video. I am now ready to purchase my first beginners harp. Which are the most reliable sites for purchasing a harp online. I am writing from Nakuru in the Rift Valley in Kenya
An absolute Angel sharing how-to buy a harp for mortals. Only on TH-cam.
😆
Shucks...lol
@@LearningtheHarp thank you so helpful and makes me so happy and your energy and s beautiful 🤩🙏
as a violin performance major in university who was forced to stop playing due to tendinitis, I appreciate the health related discussion points. I miss making music more than anything, and harp is an instrument that's always spoken to me, so knowing there's options to make it adjustable to my requirements is really helpful. Here's hoping I can learn harp to get myself back into the world of music
So sorry to hear about the tendinitis! If you get a low tension harp and make sure you learn good technique to prevent strain on your hands, perhaps it might be the right thing for you! After learning a bit of basic technique you might want to invest in a consultation with a music ergonomist (about $60 US) to check that you aren’t causing pain or injury by your technique. All the best!
Have you thought about the Theremin!? It may be a perfect option for you because you don’t touch it. In addition it’s tones mimic violin and other strings when set to different octaves.
I’m kind of in the same fix- playing the violin for so many years and I can’t hold it under my chin - my neck muscles are all screwed up and I get severe migraines- I just can’t believe the hours and orchestras and competitions and everything I put into the violin to end this way- so sad. I was thinking the harp- maybe to get some musical enjoyment somewhere just for me
Buying harp without knowing is really tough! My first harp was a very cheap harp (budget limitations) bought online, without a known brand. Just waste of time! Terrible levers and not tuned. I had to return it and rent a Harpsicle from my harp teacher. As I live in Ireland, I got to know a small harp maker (Callan Harps) through a friend who also plays the harp. I could go there, play the harps available and pick one. He had all this options you mentioned, but best of all: if you buy the lap harp, when you upgrade to the floor model you would have a discount if returning the small. So, it was great for budget limitations. Now I have the big one, with native timber and it has beautiful wood patterns, great sound!
That's a fantastic end to your story, Kallyne. I'm so happy for you!!
Would love to see and hear your new harp. Love to see different harps
I dont know anything about the harp - and dont plan to buy one, but i could watch/listen to Christy-Lyn talk about pretty much anything. You have a calming nature
Haha yes she totally does!🤩 And it's super helpful for if one ever did want to learn the harp- it could feel daunting, but when you're learning from someone who makes you feel calmer- it definitely helps😋 xx Nicole, LTH Team member
This video was soooo helpful! I just bought my first harp today and I’m SO excited! Thank you!
did you get any good in a year?
How did learning the harp
go?
it’s been a year, how’s the progress?
Such a helpful video - many thanks! My husband bought me a harp a few years back after overhearing me say "I've always wanted to play the harp." He claims he has never heard "I've always wanted . . . " come out of my mouth before. I'm a violinist, but had wanted to learn harp! Anyway, he bought me a lovely little 24 string lap harp ('County Kerry', with C and F levers only) and I finally started lessons a few months ago. The limitations were almost immediately clear to me. I rented a Dusty Strings Allegro (26 strings), and have been doing my research - leading me to decide on the Crescendo 34. I already had the plans in place to go pick it up tomorrow, and then came across this video. You have given me such confidence in all the issues I sorted through to get to this decision. I will keep the lovely lap harp - maybe the sweetest gift of love I have ever received. But I look forward to continuing my learning on the 34 string one!
Hi ChristyLyn, enjoying a Dusty Harp 34 string that I literally found under the Christmas tree more than two years ago.. A friend recommended it t my husband. Lucky me!!
Ooooo, sounds like a good man :)
I love the positive vibes in these harp videos. Thanks so much for the useful info!
This was very informative and helpful in my journey of rekindling my passion for music. I was a guitarist for years until I developed a neurological disorder that wrecked both of my hands with chronic pain in college. I've gotten it to a point where it's much more manageable, but for now returning to guitar is not feasible. It seems that fretting is the motion that seriously inflames my wrists and not plucking, so I'm looking into harps as an alternative.
I've actually already started my harp journey. Sort of. I'm playing a cheap, 19 string lyre that only plays in one key. It's capabilities are seriously limited, but it sounds beautiful and I'm making music that fills me with passion again. I still want to upgrade to a lever harp one day and this has given me a much clearer picture of what that would look like and when it might be reasonable. The only issue is that lyres and harps are basically strung backwards from each other. That's going to be a fun brain exercise when I eventually get there.
Thanks for this video - I am getting a lap harp, but it comes with legs - so it is a best of both worlds and it is a double. LOL. I know might be complicated - but I have played before - just been awhile. I cannot wait to get it now. :)
I just ordered my harp can’t wait until it arrives!
Thank you, Beautiful Lady for sharing your gift as a harpist/musician and for your encouragement! I have always wanted to play the harp and now I shall pursue my desire… Thank You and God bless you!
I spent months researching and I’ve had 4 harps since then, a harpsicle (perfect little travel harp, but lap harps are more difficult for beginning harpists) a Blevins (no longer in business) which I did not love. It had mediocre resonance, was very heavy for its size, and had Loveland levers, which I will never ever use again. I truly dislike Loveland levers for so many reasons. I have a Salvi Aida which has nice tone and good levers, but it’s voice is a bit quiet, especially noticeable when it’s outdoors. It’s a good price range for a new harpist and the company is well known. The Aida is no longer being made, but they have the Mia, which is pretty much the same thing.
But the love of my life is my walnut Heartland harp. It’s booming in the bass, it twinkles at the top, with all the middle treble ringing like crystal. It has a curved sound board so it doesn’t actually lean on my shoulder, which is good for my bursitis. They no longer make wooden harps (they are exclusively carbon fibre now) but the CF harps are also amazing! They let me take one to my room for the night while I was at a harp festival in Canada and it was amazing! So light. Someday I’ll own one!
Thanks for telling us about your harps, Bonnie! I've heard good things about Heartland harps :)
I just bought my first harp. She has full levers, 27 string cherry wood heartland harp a local instructor had in the market.
Beautiful harp and sound is amazing. So blessed to have her as my first harp.
Could anyone link me the website for the heartland harp plz would really appreciate it.
Thx so much ☺️♥️
I am a complete novice but I am a pianist and also played the flute can read music caught this video and am now completely hooked in wanting to play the harp. I suffered a fracture to my left wrist all the bones were shattered I have a plate in my left wrist this was nearly 7 yrs ago it's strong I drive type ski but now can't play the flute due to restrictions piano is no issue hence the harp is something I can play with my disability!! Thank you amazing instrument.
Harp is the instrument I hope my daughter will play. Your vids have helped much. Thank you!
Fantastic video Christy-Lyn! I was lucky with my first harp, but I sure could have used a video like this to help navigate that big decision. Great job!
I just discovered your channel and I already love it!
I always wanted to learn how to play the harp, but never had the time to do so. Now, however, I am searching for a new hobby and thought that this might be the right thing and moment.
Looking forward to watching more videos!
I (61) like your videos and they help me a lot to find “my” harp. I am a beginner in playing harp, but I have a lot experience (> 40 years) in playing organ in church…
In our city (Germany) is a harp shop and the owner offers a second-hand harp from 1997, Camac lever harp with 36 light-tension gut strings. After your recommendations this could be a good harp for beginners. Next week I will see and hear this harp, and may be…
Thank you I am wishing to buy a harp soon I will be a complete beginner my husband has early dementia so I feel this would be lovely for him to listen to whilst I learn to play rather than my guitar or violin or even piano these instruments seem to make him agitated but when I play any of your harp music to him he calms down relaxes which in turn makes my life easier I have always wanted to try and learn how to play the harp so now seems to be my calling to be able to purchase and learn to play thank you for being an excellent teacher I am learning so much from your videos you play so beautifully it brings a tear to my eye 💜🌹💜
Music has a healing effect. But each instrument has a character of its own. Harp music is very gentle and has a silver-sound and this is what your husband likes...
Im 35 now and feel like bow or never. Im happy i stumbled on this. I hope I can learn it I dont know anything about notes
I had wanted to buy a harp for a while, and I watched your video on a whim last week. I was instantly inspired, and your video was extremely helpful in picking out what I wanted. I am fortunate to have a harp store literally down the street from my home, and I am now the proud owner of a Dusty Strings FH34. Thank you, Christy-Lyn!!!!
That’s wonderful, congratulations!! 🥳🎉
I don't have any interest at all in harp, but I play piano and have been dabbling in some guitar recently, so here I am. Different instruments are endlessly fascinating, even if they're definitely not gonna happen for me for one reason or another. Buying guides don't sound like something one would watch for an idea of what an instrument is about, but I think there's some interesting stuff to learn from what people keep in mind when purchasing something.
Hi. Wonderful video and advice. I am 60 years old and I’ve wanted to learn to play the harp for as long as I can remember. Toward the end of this video, you said something about blessing people with beautiful music. That is my desire in learning. I work with the elderly and disabled population of people. I would like to play worship music for myself and others. Thanks for your tips and encouragement. God bless.
This is such good information... I I have been rather confused by all the different choices in the many many different harp makers products on offer on the Internet, especially as I live somewhere where there isn't a local harp shop around the corner. I love the fact that you consider all the key things that we should need to think about when enjoying an instrument in the future, so I find it very helpful. . I have started off with a secondhand 32 string floor harp which turns out to have been a good choice for me, but I now need to get a portable harp because I can't bear to be parted from my instrument when I go overseas.
It is quite bewildering as you say but this video helps a lot.
I also want to say thank you for your harp instructional videos. You communicate so much enthusiasm and joy of playing and I have found your videos very helpful..
i'll be getting a lap harp for various reasons, but admittedly the largest reason is the price point. It's an instrument i'm not sure i'll regularly play and want to learn simply for myself as an easy going hobby. If i get to the point where i need more strings or enjoy it so thoroughly, i will save for a floor harp later down the line. Another reason is being able to take it outside would be lovely. I spend a lot of time cramped up in my study, and being able to take it out to the little woodland for an hour to practice and take a break from my assignments with some fresh air sounds like a nice idea.
Sounds great!! Any idea when you’ll be able to get one? 😃
@@LearningtheHarp Well i have a little saved up, but it will probably take me another month or so to get all the funds together. luckily a lot of reputable online stores in the UK do payment plans now which make it much easier on my crying uni wallet. I would go to look at some harps in person, but there are sadly not any stores anywhere near where i live that sell the wonderful instrument.
Ty for the information. I purchased my first harp in January. I’m currently waiting for its completion and shipment.
So stoked it was helpful- excited for your harp to come home to you!🙌🤩
xx Nicole, LTH Team Member
Thank you Christy-Lyn! The best almost half-hour time I've spent listening to your video! So helpful! I'm looking forward to purchasing my 2nd harp someday and now I am a more-informed person, thanks to you! (thank you, too, Cara!) :)
Such a pleasure, Cassie!! I’m so pleased it was helpful ☺️
This is such a helpful video! I've always been interested in harps but have never known much about them. I didn't realize how many aspects there were to consider, and this made everything very easy to understand and compare!
Wow!! Thank you so much for committing to creating this video. i have been looking for a good video to help guide me with highlighted information for choosing my harp. thank you!!
That’s so amazing Jade, I’m so glad it’s been such a help and equipped you to feel more confident in choosing a harp! 🤗 Nicole, LTH Team Member
Christy-Lyn thank you for fabulous videos. I’m having my first beginners harp class in three weeks and I’m so excited!
I subscribed to your channel a while ago and my fingers are itching to get started!
I’ll be using a hired harp to begin with and this video, and your others have been so informative. I have previously looked at harps to buy online and become very confused so your check list will help a lot!
Just to say that sometimes you can strike lucky with a Pakistani harp. I have had a wonderful time with my little Mary Anne for the last year - she has a beautiful tone, holds her pitch astonishingly well and as I am now transitioning to a higher-spec harp I still intend to keep her, as I can carry her around to sessions and she's just right for accompanying Gaelic songs.
Christy-Lyn this video is really well thought out and explained. Thank you!
For me, the deciding factor, was the sound of my harp. I arranged skype sessions with 2 different harp makers (it would have been 3, but the third company had become frustrated with all my questions, and had stopped responding to my emails which made me feel they were not interested in doing business). So... if you cannot get to a place to test harps - use skype and have the seller play for you!
If I had realized how important the "extra" strings would be, I would have gone for a "bigger" harp. Yes, bigger would take more space, and I didn't know I would stick with the harp. But I do have a really good harp with lovely deep rich sound (THE deciding factor was my harp's sound). The maker's (Teifi Harps in Wales) biggest lever harp (Eos) would have been a better choice and would ultimately have cost about the same, but would have been a bit heavier.
Transport! I have rediscovered baby prams! Someone was discarding a small baby pram (folds almost like an umbrella), and I have repurposed it for transporting my harp! I've added two "belts" to make sure my harp doesn't tumble out if the pram hits a bump, and it has simplified my life and getting around SOOOOOOOOOO much. I can hop on and off city buses with my harp, basically feel I can go anywhere. Can actually just unbuckle and unzip (it travels in its travel bag) it and play without removing it from its "pram"., then rezip and rebuckle and keep going. Me and my unusual "baby".
And most "good" harps maintain their resale value.
And finally, one more thing: find someone to help you! Great idea. Find a harpist. How? Ask your nearest symphony orchestra if they know of ANY harpists. There probably is at least one whom they know of. Get the names /contact information for all whom they know. Contact the harpists one at a time until you find one who will help you. You have very good chance that they will help!
Thanks so much, Susanne! Those are some WONDERFUL ideas!! ❤️ I laughed at the thought of your harp baby in its pram - so cool.
Just today, I ordered my first harp. A 24 month rent to own, ravens 26 seemed good. A ds fh26 used and pristine and with financing was difficult to pass up. Since I really want to do harp therapy, I chose full sickle se therapy package was my choice. It won’t look good at weddings, but, by the time I am ready to play for events, I should be able to afford a nicer harp. Thanks for your videos!
I have been very lucky with the little 12-string Roosbeck I bought. I'm in my 70s and have rheumatoid arthritis -- there are days when I can't lift either of my bigger harps into playing position. They are a Dusty Strings Ravenna 34, and a 26-string Blevins (weighs a TON!) But I can always play Roselyn (the Roosbeck). Now I get a kick out of arranging classical music for her - it's a fun music-theory challenge. Her tone is not brilliant, of course, but not bad either. Music friends have described her as "sweet" sounding. She is my little buddy - my arthritis-friendly harp - and I do not regret buying her at all!
Awwww your arthritis friendly little buddy, that’s so sweet! 💕 Thanks for sharing your thoughts Joan, that’s lovely.
I’m looking to buy a harp but I’ve never played a harp or any instrument besides the recorder that they made us play in 4th grade, I’ve forgotten how to read sheet music aswell so time to study up!
You're going to have a great time!
Excellent explanation from a very sweet young lady. She knows the subject and knows how to explain it. Congratulations Christy-Lyn, you are a star!
Thank you SO much for your video!
I love classical music. I play the flute and want to learn how to play the harp. I adore how informative your video is overall. Sadly, I don't have anyone who plays instruments in my life currently so I have no one to turn to for advice. This video was so well put and thorough. Thank you a ton!!!!💗🙌
I watch it a few times and it really helps.
Thank you so much Christy-Lyn and Cara!! I'm so excited I'm looking at my first harp next week! This video has really helped me thanks a million!! Xx
So exciting, Winita!! It’s a pleasure ❤️ All the best, enjoy looking at the different options ☺️
It is so sad to see all the negative comments that are made about cheaper harps.I wonder how many South Africans can actually afford to buy a harp that is made in the USA for example and import it to South Africa
Yes, it's a pity that the harp is out of reach for so many people! There are no commercial harp makers in South Africa that I know of. But I hope someday soon that will no longer be the case. It's certainly exciting to see all the (relatively) affordable but good quality instruments coming out in the US these days... so the time is coming soon, I think!
I hope to have 3 or 4 of my South African made harps available soon
1944wingman Oh wow that’s super exciting!!! Do tell me more, maybe in an email? 😃
Thank you for advocating a good quality instruments. When a new music student starts out they are referred to the cheap instruments which in the end is more difficult to play and discourages the student.
the most helpful harp video ever!! thank you so much!!!
Thank you so much for this video, bless your wonderful soul ❤! I’ve been shopping around for a harp to begin however I had no idea which option to go for. I play multiple instruments so I love to pick the best option, I appreciate that you broke down every aspect of the harp !
Hi I'd just like to say I agree with everything the last person said on your comments section.....I feel inspired to play such a heavenly instrument and make heavenly music 🎶 even though I'm totally new to the harp! I love the haunting celtic songs so ill be focusing on a harp that will give me that vibe! Thank you for sharing your videos.....so helpful!
I love my harp .... The tone is incredible. I have a Double Strung & just use the left hand score on my second set of strings. I will, eventually be able to do contrapuntal variations, etc.
With illness having knocked my socks off, my harp is gathering dust. Boo Hiss. It's so incredibly frustrating.
However, the day will come & I WILL LEARN!
Sorry to hear about your illness, Jenn! Yes, I hope the day isn't too far off that you'll be able to have fun with your harp
I am excitedly waiting to pick up a Lyon and Healy Prelude 40 from the warehouse next week! 😄💞☺ I cannot wait to start lessons!
Thank you so much! I am renting a Salvi Mia floor harp from Lyon & Healey in Chicago. I am so excited! I do have a lap harp now that I have used that I actually got at a resale shop, but I have really wanted more strings & a nicer tone. Your encouragement has really helped me. It is scary to get a different harp, but I tried it out in Chicago and I loved it.
Thank so much. It’s been a deep and silent desire to learn to play the Harp. But I have this vision in my head of me playing so beautifully one day. So far this Is my first introduction starting with you to entertain this idea. Now I so need guidance. This video was very helpful but it’s nothing like having a real person lead the way. Thank you. Do you have suggestions on where to purchase my first harp.
Yes you can check my recommendations at the link in the description box 😊 All the best with the decision, I’m sure you’re going to enjoy it!
I really like to buy a Harp.I mean I really really want to buy and learn how to play it.
But my dad said that we still doesn't have the budget to buy one😢😢😭😭
Thank you, Christy-Lyn! I’m about to buy my first harp and this was very helpful! Yes I’m nervous, but you’ve made me feel better about the one I want!
Thank you, Christy-Lyn! I have decided that I need a floor harp, and am about to do it! My sweet little Celtic harp is lovely, but a bit limiting. You've provided a great deal of useful info, and I can now go on my harp hunting adventure with a bit of confidence!
Ive been playing piano since I was 6, and I’ve wanted for so long to expand to the harp as well.
Thank you so much for such a definitive and informative video to help with the purchase of a harp! Just what I was looking for!
Yeah, I'm having a very hard time trying to find and buy a beginner harp locally. Thanks for this video! Will watch it later. :)
Thank you so much for this video. I might get myself a harp for Christmas
I love your videos, so enlightening. I'm a flautist and an aspiring harpist, it's been my dream since elementary school but there are many challenges here in Nigeria making this dream hard to realize.
Hi Ibrahim! I had another person from Nigeria asking about harp yesterday. Was that also you? Here is what I suggested for getting a harp: Hi! I don’t know the best place to get a harp in Nigeria, I imagine you would need to order online directly from a harp maker in the US. I would recommend the Ravenna 34 from Dusty Strings - it’s a good solid harp that you can start on, and it has enough strings that you wouldn’t need to upgrade too soon. You could try emailing or phoning Dusty Strings directly at their harp shop in Seattle, and see what they say about shipping a harp to Nigeria. They are very helpful!
Once you have a harp, you can learn through the internet, lots of people are doing that! This is the reason I create online courses, so that people who don’t have access to a harp teacher can learn wherever they are in the world 😍
You could also build one! Depending on where you are there, you might have access to really high quality wood! It takes a bit of labor, but you can cut and plane all of the pieces with hand tools. Harps arent that big and you should be able to get the wood you would need from a fairly small tree. Would just need to buy the strings and hardware then.
@@LearningtheHarp oh really? I'll check them and see if it can work.
@@argyfarg oh, okay
You are EXCELLENT CHRISTY-LYN
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK
THANK YOU DEAR
Cape town!!! Totes have to meet you sometime, would love to actually see a harp in the flesh! A burning interest has just fired up in me, keen to learn more about harps
A wonderful amount of information re: types and purchasing. The segment on what and where to purchase are especially valuable. I was about to buy one made no telling where when I came across this valuable video. Thank you so much for making all of this available to a total novice like me. I have changed my thoughts of what and where to buy,. It was intersting to me that you like the cardboard sound boxes, whichIlooked at and decided against. I'll look again.
I have always loved the sound of harp music but intimidated by all those beautiful strings. You have such a loving spirit; I sense your passion and willingness to share it. I am going to learn to play this beautiful instrument. :-) I look forward to learning from you. :-)
You're doing a great job there.
This video so helpful..for I am new at this...I am in a small town Ceres in Westencl Cape...my herts desire to play the harp ❤.
This is really informative and useful video. Thank you Christy-Lyn.
Extremely detail in a tutorial video.
I wont surprise if you are a musician or music teacher
Yes, I’m both! 😁
I have a question.
I have 22 strings harp which is tuned from c2 count from the longest string and its pitch range is 3 octaves. So the highest note is c5 isnt it ??
Is it weird if i use harp to play asian melodies
Thanks
Thank you so much for that inspiring video about playing the harp; it has made me feel better as you mention a harpsicle and that is what I have bought recently; I was worried that perhaps the quality would not be very good but you are so encouraging and positive that now I feel better about my decision. And now all I have to decide is where I can learn harp fairly cheaply as I took harp lessons before and they were very expensive and I wondered if I might find lessons cheaply online but I shall have to look around the internet! Bless you for your encouragement Christy-Lyn!!
I’m so glad you feel encouraged, Gwenn! I’m sure you will have fun learning 😃 If harp lessons are too expensive for you, I recommend trying my free course “How to play the harp: start here” which you can find at learningtheharp.com/shop. And then if you like that, you can try the beginner bundle which is good value for money, to learn your first 3 pieces from online courses I’ve made. Hope that helps!
Wonderful in-depth information! I’m going for a Dusty Strings brand. Very lovely harps for affordable prices. I’m still saving, but hopefully soon I can bring my harp home. 🙂🎼
Oh they’re a great brand!! Very exciting - let me know when the time comes! 😃 Are you planning on taking harp lessons?
I just bought my first harp from Melody’s in Cypress, Tx and John told me about your TH-cam channel! I’m loving your channel so far! (And my harp is amazing 👀) 😁
WOW! What an amazing video! You are so full of joy! Thank you SO much! 🙏🏽😊
I’ve wanted to play the harp for years and was told to learn the piano first and I should have just said no. I learned the piano, but now I have not played for about 8 years and am still terrible with the Bass Clef 😬
Anyway, I want to make the change and sell my piano and buy a harp 😊 This will help me tremendously, thanks again! I can’t wait to watch all of your videos 😊😊😊
I'm renting a lever harp but I want a pedal harp one day! I like David Harps. They're very pretty but Lyon and Healy sound so beautiful.
This is so helpful. The information is solid, your bright smile is contagious and as a beginner I'm really happy I found your channel. THANK YOU! Subscribed.
Thanks! I hope I can get in touch with you. I have specific questions about my harp that I already have. You were very informative, but I just have to pin this all down to MY harp. Thanks
Hi Ed! I’m glad it was helpful 😊 Why don’t you post your questions in the comments of this video and we’ll see what we can do to answer your questions here. Otherwise if you want a more in depth answer and to chat about it, you could book a once-off with my co-teacher Carrie (I don’t currently have any slots available). Christy-Lyn xx
You are so lovely and encouraging.
I am so thankful for this video I've never thought in a million years that I would actually take this seriously but with your help I think I might! Thank you so much :( ❤
As always, your videos are a wealth of information, and your honesty is much appreciated!
You are talking about great choice. Unfortunately in my country there's a very limited choice available for beginner harpists. After a long period of just waiting to see what would turn up in the market, I ended up buying a Salvi Titan 38-string lever harp. It was quite expensive, but actually I'd have been happy to splash out a little bit more on a real good quality hand-made harp made of solid natural timber, even if it had been second hand. There was no chance for such a deal here, unfortunately. Being a long-time guitarist, for 3000 bucks I'd have expected all solid wood and a cedar soundboard, but, of course, Salvi's beginners' models have a laminated birch neck and an okume plywood soundboard. So I'm not all satisfied with the deal... Anyway, the sound and the overall quality is decent, the instrument is a beauty, so I will try to make the most of what I have.
Thank you for your videos, they’re super helpful and informative
Thank you Christy-Lyn!
So glad! It's so helpful to get advice before deciding on a harp ☺️. Xx Nicole, LTH Team Member
Very nice production. Just a casual TH-cam viewer.
Thanks a lot Christy for the continuous motivation..I can't wait to buy a harp this October..😊
Pleasure!! What harp do you have in mind? 😃
I'm thinking of buying harpsicle, because I dream to play in the church and serve people everywhere, so I want to bring my harp around. But, as you mention, it's quite difficult to learn it, isn't it? I do hope that you will do a lap harp/ harpsicle tutorial in the future..Thanks a lot 😊
Sella Selinda Hi Sella! That’s very exciting for you, so soon you’ll be getting your Harpsicle!! 😍 What kind of tutorial do you mean - like how to play the harp from the very beginning?
Sella Selinda Hi Sella! That’s very exciting for you, so soon you’ll be getting your Harpsicle!! 😍 What kind of tutorial do you mean - like how to play the harp from the very beginning?
Maybe a tutorial like how is the position of the hands and body when standing/sitting when playing harpsicle. Thanks Christy. 😊
My first harp was a 19-string harp from Mid-East. It was good for my situation at the time so I don't regret buying it, but just like you said the levers are in the wrong place! If I try to raise one the pitch goes up by more than a half step.
That’s a common problem! 😅
Thanks so much this will help greatly choosing my harp 🙏🏼💐
She's so cute I love her alot! Very helpful and sweet.
Omg I should see your video earlier, I already purchased Roosebeck harp from online due to Covid situation. Love your video, really help alot ;)
I plan to get a harp later this year, I am only interested in lever harps as using for folk music vocal accompaniment, so I can accompany my daughter. Currently I use guitar & piano but feel some music would just work better with a harp. I have no harp stores remotely near me here in Australia but after listening to harps online decided I want to go with dusty strings fh36, now I just need to start saving …
Hi Christy-Lynn! Lovely to see you, as always. This video is a goldmine of information, I'll definitely come back to it when my harp time comes! I didn't know that the material of the strings affects the sound of the harp (it makes sense, I just never considered it). If I could buy a harp now, I would go for the Ravenna 34. I love the sound of Dusty Strings harps!
Hi Eri! Oh it’s so good to hear that this video has helpful for you... I’d rather share everything I know so you don’t have to do so much research! 😊 The Ravenna is a great choice, lovely harp 👍🏻
Thank you so much Christy! I hope someday I'll join your harp club : )
Ooh, I hope so!! :D Any idea when you'll be able to get your first harp?
Next year may be... When I'll graduate from uni ; )
That would be great!! Let me know 😃
Ok
Did you get one? Now I want to know!
Thanks Christy Lyn. Your recommendations are really valuable!
I currently own two harps (a £14,500 brand new Aoyama Orpheus 47 that I managed to drop to £11,000 as a student and a Ravenna 34) my little sister has won national competitions on the Ravenna and I highly recommend it. It's a lovely harp and we're debating whether to keep it alongside our concert grand.
Thank you for your information. I am wanting to learn the harp, and had no idea where to start and have watched many videos online about this since September. Yours have resonated with me. I am in my early 50s so a late starter, and I have a right arm/hand injury that I am looking at wanting to strengthen my fingers, and as a child played the organ ( not well) for 2 years, but now my little finger on the right, is hard to control and doesn't work. I ( think) I'm at the point of looking at getting a harp on hire to learn to play. I would love to be able to join the church band. I have had to learn to be left handed, and believe that music will help me to grow.
Lovely content. Just subscribed. I don't play but I'm a big fan of the harp and I like your videos.
So glad I found your video....gave me all the direction I need. Going to drop you an email. Thanks so much Christy-Lyn.
Wonderful!! 😃
In Hungary there ist a harp maker who does very affordable harps with a very good quality and there is not a big soundboard needed, bescause they have a huge Sound.
Does he have a website?
@@nikaciger1830 harfamives.eu/en/about-us
This was really helpful. Thank you!
Hi Chrissy-Lyn! I love watching your videos! I’m considering starting harp private lessons once COVID calms down more. Do you suggest a beginner start with a lever or pedal harp?
Lever harp is a great way to start, and many people prefer to stick with lever harp forever! 😃👌🏻
First of all I love your videos, you're such a bright and lovely person and your videos are a joy to watch!!! I know this video is a few years old but maybe someone might be still reading/watching this and able to help with my harp dilemma.
I used to live in Germany and moved to Australia a few years ago. In the process I had to sell my harp and wanted to buy a new one once my family had settled in but with covid (and a likely long travel ban for Australia) I'm in a harp dilemma at the moment. I used to play a Celtic Isolde, I went to the Camac store in Berlin and chose "my" harp based on which one resonated the most with me since I had 0 experience with harps before. I took lessons for about one year before moving overseas. At teachers place I played either an Aoyama or Salvi Mia. Over time I realised that the string tension of my teachers harp, especially the Aoyama, was too strong for me, while the Celtic Isolde felt too "floppy" as my technique advanced.
I love the sound and feel of carbon strings but wouldn't mind giving synthtic gut or nylon a go. I want to play mostly Celtic music but not be limited in choice of repertoire since I love different styles of music. That said, I care little for "classical" pieces like the Moldau or Wagners operas.
I have considered buying a Camac Excalibur because I'm in love with the sound, deep bass and rich tones and the medium string tension sound appealing; and overall I was very happy with Camac quality. The problem is that there are very few harp stores in Australia, so I cannot just walk into a store and try different models like I could back in Europe.
I have recently also considered the Salvi Una (deluxe) because I love the design and colour of the harp and I've heard that SilkGut should have medium string tension. There is a Salvi store near my place (2 hours drive is "nearby") but, because of the pandemic and border closures, most harp stores have very limited stock and shipping costs are very high. I found some great videos of the Excalibur but not so many of the Una.
Being a huge Omnia fan I'd also consider a Triplett although I'd prefer Camac or Salvi.
Has one of you played (or heard) either of these harps before and can give me a honest review?
Please don't recommend other brands and don't tell me that I "must" play the harp before I buy it. My current situation simply doesn't allow travel (and the borders might stay closed for many more months or even years) otherwise I would have gone to the Tokyo Camac store by now. I don't like the look of Dusty Strings and I've looked into countless harp other harps but so far, the decision is mostly between the two mentioned above. Thanks for your advice!!!
Wow so much info in this video I would love to learn harp one day x
Really helpful and logical advises!!! Thank you very much!! And wishing happy music times
soo much to think about, lol, I want to try out different lever harps.
What about Lyon and Healy, prelude lever harp. 38 stings. Advice?
If you want a cheaper high quality harp, you could order one from resonance harps, Russia. They offer a variety of models in different colours and embellishments. The sound is sweet, but not crisp, very gentle
Learning the Harp with Christy-Lyn, thank you 🙏🏾 this information is very helpful 💚