When I was looking to buy a harp 12 years ago - I tested out about 8 different kinds in a music store. But when I sat down and played the Dusty 36, my eyes suddenly filled with tears. That's weird, I thought - and i continued trying out other harps. But every time I came back to the Dusty, the same thing happened - except in addition to tears, I got goosebumps all over me. So of course I bought it. I've owned and eventually sold several other additional harps - but never the Dusty. Hands down, the best harp I've ever had. And the sound has improved over the years. A magnificent instrument.
I had the same when I tried the crescendo, I knew it was the one but couldn’t buy it at the time. A few years later I managed to hire one and eventually went on to buy it. Dusty harps are amazing!!
It took me about 3 years to find the right floor harp - the Dusty Strings Crescendo. I have had it for 12 years, and liked it so much I bought a 2nd one that I store near where we spend summers and autumns....They are absolutely EXCELLENT lever harps. Yes, the one downside are the levers (I have no love of Loveland levers), but I put on plastic caps available through Dusty strings, and he shape of them on the levers makes them much easier to use.
Great video. I have a DS Boulevard (34 strings). It has some gut strings and a beautiful sound and very light weight for easy transport. I use the blue and red bands to help identify the levers. I love your videos- very uplifting and instructional. Thank you!
Dusty Strings also makes the FH36S which has a staveback design, making it much more comfortable at the shoulder and between your legs. It has a flat facet instead of corners.. Same exact harp otherwise although the staveback gives it a slightly even more warm and rounded sound, which I happen to love. They both sound amazing, but I bet you would find the staveback more comfortable.
This harp sounds glorious. Just today, I looked up the USA price on the midsized full lever. They are $3100.00 here…. More than a new grand Jeep Cherokee . Thanks for your passionate review.
I believe you are confused. Perhaps you have mentally added an extra zero. A new car is about $30,000. A lever harp is between $3,000 - $8,000. So, no. A lever harp is certainly not more than the price of a new car. A pedal harp... now that's a different story. The harp that Chiara is playing on this video is about $7,000-8,000 in the US. I doubt you could even get a decent used car for that.
@@wholovesyababy5574 perhaps the dealer mis quoted the price to me. yes, i am saying the price quoted me is more than my new mid-sized car. and, now, i have already purchased another choice. thank you for alerting me to the price confusion.
I am newbie to playing music!! I bought a Dusty Strings Crescendo 36 because of the warmth. Been following you for a couple of months now, great tips, keep them coming.😮
Do you mean 34? I am not aware of a Crescendo 36. I am actually buying a Crescendo tomorrow when they open. Today is Sunday so I have to wait. I've been weighing my options for a while and the Crescendo is the best bang for your buck. A beautiful sounding harp that isn't so expensive as the FH series.
Here I am after watching your other video xD I must say, I am absolutely in love with this harp even more than when I first saw it yesterday. Thanks for the review! I'm very much considering saving up for one of those beautiful dusty string harps now
I love Dusty Strings harps, such a rich sound! My small FH26 makes as much sound as a 36 strings Camac. About the coloured levers, my harp came with little blue and red latex rings around the Lovelands : MUCH easier to spot the right lever! Otherwise I would have had to paint the with nail varnish or something.
I don't know if someone else told you this, but you can buy little blue and red rubber rings that will fit on the levers to help with identifying them. I have a cherry DS FH36. Love it!!! Your description and enthusiasm for the harp is wonderful! I agree!
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 The cherry is absolutely gorgeous, but I like all of the various woods DS uses. Hard to choose among them! Mine has the cherry blossoms inlaid in the pillar that is available now. Mine is the first one DS made with this inlay, about 5 or 6 years old. Her name is Spring.
Finally after years of dreaming to have a harp, finally got the $$$ and have ordered a Dusty Strings FH36s in Walnut and should be on its way in a month or two :)
Hi Chiara! First of all, I love your videos, you're so funny and articulate! I don't play harp mysel, I'm more of a woodwind player, but I really love this instrument. I have a suggestion about the issue with the black levers - maybe put some blue and red heat shrink tube over them so it'll be easy to see like with the Camac levers? And if you don't like the feel or something, this is easily reversible.
Thank you for your suggestion! I found a solution with some coloured tape. A heat shrink tube would be more challenging to put on...I don't have the great manuality that woodwind player have!😉
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 You're welcome! Turns out, heat shrink tube works very well on tuning pins, too, makes it much easier to find the string you want to tune. Just cut a few pieces of blue/black and red to size and slip them on. If it's too tight, you can apply a tiny amount of mineral oil to the pin, less than a drop is more than enough, and then wipe off the rest so it won't discolor the wood. You might want to wear gloves doing that, I got a nice blister on my right thumb :)
@@deborahmccaw7127 It's the "Spagnoletta" by anonymous, it's a lute score, I arranged it for harp (but didn't write it down....). If you're interested, here you find the score: www.thisisclassicalguitar.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Spagnoletta.pdf
I‘m in love with this harp! Thanks, Chiara! I found the lever harp of my dreams! ❤ What is this tone you‘re playing? It is so beautiful! Could you do a full record of it with this DS harp?🍀
@@bunyamingorgulu4300 that's great, I'm glad you like it, it is really a beautiful harp!! If you look for one, a colleague is selling hers (here in Europe) but I could put you in touch if you wish. The tune is the "Spagnoletta", one day I'll write the arrangement and do a full recording of it!😁👋
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 Thanks, Chiara! Where does your friend live in Europe? I can‘t wait to hear the full version of that beautiful piece!🤩
I play many instruments and the harp is my last frontier. That said, this is a very insightful review, I can relate precisely to what Chiara is describing, incl. the pasta reference.
Hi, Chiara! Me again. I'm on the verge of buying this harp or one very similar. The regional harp store has a couple of 36S harps that are used and a 34S with Camac levers that is new. I'm almost thinking about settling for the 34S, because Dusty Strings can't ship me a 36S before June or July. I hear what you're saying in the video, though, about the 36-string minimum. I'm torn. But I wanted to let you know that this video continues to be helpful to me, and I appreciate you!
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 I always value your opinion! I am generally a very impatient person. I am slowly (and reluctantly) developing patience by learning to play the harp. You're an inspiration, Chiara!
@@resonantresendizrogelio I usually don't like high tension strings on a lever harp. I think it muffles the sound too much and it takes too much effort to play. Just my opinion anyway!
Buongiorno Chiara, non ci sono parole per dire quanto è abile a suonare l'arpa. Bravissima. Una spettacolo.🎉 Cortesemente, mi può dire di quale legno è fatta questa Dusty String Fh36 ? Sapele, Maple, Cherry o Walnut ? Grazie mille. E ancora complimenti per il video. Grazie. Saluti, Anna 😊❤
Hello,in your opinion,What do you think are the differences between FH36H&S in walnut piece?I tried listening to audio on the website but I’m not sure about it...🤔
Hello, I'm truly sorry but I cannot answer this question as I don't have the experience of playing an FH36S! You can write an email to Dusty Strings, they're very helpful: manufacturing.dustystrings.com/harps
Lovely! Thank you, Chiara. I own this same harp in Bubinga and the sound is warm and round and gorgeous. Mine has a stave-back body which is quite a bit more comfortable on the legs. Question: what is the piece you play at 1:20? It's so beautiful I could weep. Cheers!
Thank you! Wow I'd love to try Bubinga some day. And I didn't know about the stave-back body! The piece I play at 1:20 is just an improvisation.. using the circle of fifths in a- minor. That would be improvise in the following chords: a minor7, d minor7 , G7, C major7 (with then a B flat = C7), F major7, b half diminished, E7. And then start again. It's great fun and a really useful patter to know. Have fun!
This is very helpful, Chiara! Are you very familiar with any Triplett harps, particularly the Axline (30 string)? That's what I have right now, and while the sound is good, I have a lot of trouble with the levers. I am thinking about trying to find an FH36 instead. Thank you for all you do!
Hi, no I'm not familiar with the Triplett harps at all, although interested as at the moment I'm looking for a new lever harp! What levers are they? Can't they just change the levers on your Axline? Otherwise, FH36 it's a really great harp indeed!
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 Hi Ciara! Actually, I misspoke -- while there are issues with some of the levers, the main problem is with the tuning pegs -- for some strings, they keep getting loose during tuning, and the whole string goes slack. I have to hammer and squeeze the peg deeper into the hole in order to tune the string again. I talked to someone at a regional harp shop who said this is a common Triplett problem, and they no longer sell Tripletts because of it. My Triplett is my first harp, bought used about two years ago at a nearby musical instrument shop, when I wasn't as picky. :)
@@thesuburbanmorrigan It's a good thing to be picky! Yes, the hammer is the only solution in this case, have you tried to speak with Triplett the harp builder about that? Maybe they can fix this problem! Anyway, playing out of tune is the most horrible thing, so go for a Dusty then 🤗🤗
Dear Chiara, thank you for your amazing playing and very positive way of giving information 😊 Could you please tell, what do you think about Aoyama harps ? Im professional pianist, working in Japan, but I wish to start to learn playing harp, so, is it good idea to buy harp in Japan ? Thank you ! ❤️
Dear Gala, thank you for your nice message! I tried Aoyama only twice in my life so I'm not an expert at all. Also I tried only pedal harps. From what I remember though they were good instruments, so yes I think it's a good idea to buy a harp in Japan! Maybe ask Yuko Tomonaga, we met a few times, she's a good harpist in Japan: facebook.com/yukotomonaga.harp She can probably help you more! Have fun with the harp, it's similar to the piano!
Hello Chiara! I was wondering what is your church repertoire? 🙂 I am planing to play in a local church mostly slow hymns and I was wondering what do you play. Have a lovely day!!
Hi Michaela! I have a lot of nice and slow repertoire, beautiful, not necessarely hymns, but also meditative slow airs from celtic music and some passacaglie, some reinassance music and some improvisations...
So beautiful! Is this an FH36S or an FH36H? I was wondering if the H or S is thinner than the other, decreasing the width between the legs. Do the H and the S models sound different? How does the choice of wood affect the sound? Thanks for showing the Dusty Strings!
One has a round back, one has a square back. I forget which is which. I believe the S is the round back. That's the difference, which also increases the price.
Unfortunately I had trouble hearing this video as well. Even tried using ear plugs and its a problem. Love your videos so hope there is someway of boosting the sound? Thanks
I'm totally sorry, I've no idea why....It works for me and it seems for lots of other people is no problem. Is there someone who can help you with your pc? I'm very sorry I can't help!
Have you played a Lyon & Healy Troubadour? I have a Troubadour V and it's my only harp at this time, but I assumed that pedal-tension lever harps such as the Troubadour came the closest to a pedal harp sound in a lever harp.
No I've never tried it! Actually here we have mostly pedal harp by Lyon and Healy, lever harp from them are not common at all...I'd be interested in trying one!
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 I meant to say, I've thought that if I ever get a lower-tension Celtic-style harp (and I'm sure I will!), I imagine I'll get a Dusty Strings model, and you make it sound so beautiful! Did you consider their FH36S model with the Staveback design, which is supposedly more comfortable to play since the soundbox doesn't have the corners? I know it's a little more expensive than the rectangular soundbox.
@@organist1982 I've never heard about the Staveback model, but If I ever am going to get another Dusty (which is quite possible!) I'm definitely going to consider it. So, thank you a lot for your advice!!!
Are these the standard levers that come on the harp? The company that I'll be buying my harp from offers Camac levers for an additional $225. I am trying to decide whether to keep the standard levers or get the Camac levers. Thank you for the great videos!
These are the standard Loveland levers which Dusty strings have. I don't know where your harp is being made, but Camac's levers are very good. It depends what the other option would be, though...
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 I'm buying a Dusty Strings harp, but the company that I'm buying from offers to replace the standard levers for the Camac levers for $225. I was curious whether it was worth the extra cost, or if I should stick with the standard tuners. Thank you for your response!
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 Thank you for the information. I didn't want to spend the extra money if there wasn't a good reason. I'll save the money for something else. :)
Yes they're nylon, I don't know how it would sound with gut because I don't want to try😂 I'm quite skeptical about putting on different strings that what they're meant to be, because I think all the studies made on the harp makes sense with one type of strings for wood, tenion and lever regulations...But I know some harpists experiment a lot with that..I'm afraid to make a mess! 🤣
What was the piece you played I remember playing it as a student so I must have whatever book it is from but I can’t for the life of me remember what it is.
The piece at the end is the "Spagnoletta" by anonymous, it's a lute score, I arranged it for harp (but didn't write it down....). If you're interested, here you find the score: www.thisisclassicalguitar.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Spagnoletta.pdf
Thank you so much for this review, Chiara. I'm looking for a new lever harp and this is now definitely on my list. Which harps would you recommend that have 38 strings? I really want that full, rich, pedal harp sound
For the sound I would definitely go for a Dusty, but they arrive to only 36 strings. The closest to a rich and full pedal harp sound on a lever harp is then the Salvi Egan in my opinion: th-cam.com/video/CScyVDzH7so/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=ChiaraPedrazzettiARPAtelier You could be lucky and find a handmade harp with those feature, but in my experience they vary a lot in sound, so you have to do a lot of research and try out many of them. I'm sorry I cannot be much of a help, all the other harps that I own or tried have a smaller sound than Dusty or Salvi.
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 Ciao Chiara! In terms of sound quality, would you choose the Dusty Strings over the Salvi Egan? I would prefer 38 strings, but also want a big, warm, rich sound (I currently have an Ana)
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 thanks that would be great. I've been told that if you play Dusty Strings harps very firmly (like a pedal harp) they sound twangy, so you have to keep a light touch. But you seem to be playing with gusto and it sounds good.
@@samanthathompson9812 I play it as I would play a pedal harp (maybe not a Lyon, more like a Camac😉) and I enjoy the sound it produces. Mine is not twangy at all!
I love the dusty strings sound, too. Although describing a dusty strings 36 string as light kind of blew my mind. I find the 26 string dusty string harps problematically heavy.
Are you pulling too hard? You shouldn't need to pull very hard to get a nice sound out of it. Aside from the Dusty I have a SE Fullsicle and the floppy tension is so much worse for the hands. You have to pull the strings out and to the side to get a decent tone. You can't pull back or you run into the next string up. They're so squishy it's awful and I have already had carpal tunnel surgery, so I know what it's like to have serious hand problems. I have a friend with advanced arthritis and she owns 3 harps. One with low tension, one with medium and one with concert tension. The low tension makes her hands really hurt. It may surprise you to hear she finds the concert harp tension to be the least problematic because it takes little force to get a clean sound out of it.
@@bettertomorrow2625 I was talking about the weight of the harp, not the string tension. I don't have a car, I'm small, and I have fibromyalgia and hand issues. Lugging my Ravenna 26 (14lb without the legs, 17lb with) to church and back twice a week is somewhat painful and feels like I'm going to seriously hurt myself if I keep doing it. My SE fullsicle is so much easier to deal with. It is a bit less comfortable to play for long periods, and I do find it is more prone to buzzing, but at least I can safely get it to where I need to play, and then easily move it around on stage without worrying about hurting myself.
@@bettertomorrow2625 That's okay. I can see where the mistake came from. I seem to be a lot more sensitive to the weight and carryability of harps than most due to my situation.
Your review helped me choose the dusty, it arrives in September (ahhhhh i have to wait so long!! But so worth it), The sound is just incredible, i would love to be able to play as good as you! How many years have you been playing for?
Ciao! L'ho fatta arrivare direttamente da Seattle, mi è arrivata all'aeroporto di Zurigo e sono andata a prenderla in macchina... Te la spediscono all'aeroporto più vicino! Altrimenti c'è qui in Ticino Eleonora del Ticino Harp Center che le riceve e anche Tartarotti di ARPItalia mi sembra che ne venda... Non so dove stai però ci sono queste opzioni che io sappia!
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 ricordo che quando contattai Arpitalia mi fecero tutta una manfrina per farmi capire che anche se erano distributori italiani non le volevano vendere, in sostanza, perché ovviamente volevano favorire le loro Camac. Ma onestamente, almeno per quanto mi riguarda, nessuna Camac è all'altezza del suono e della qualità della Dusty Strings! ❤️ Io avevo pensato in effetti di ordinarla direttamente dagli USA però temevo di avere problemi con la dogana, o comunque che avendola ordinata dall'estero in caso di problemi o danneggiamenti poi sarebbe stato un grosso problema mandarla in assistenza. Tu come ti sei trovata, a questo riguardo? Comunque io sto a Verona! Non ho ancora mai studiato arpa ma voglio iniziare il prossimo settembre-ottobre! Non vedo l'ora! È il mio sogno da tanti anni! Per iniziare pensavo di affittare una Salvi, ma quando potrò acquistare vorrei tanto una FH36H o una Ogden di Lyon and Healy, che pure secondo me ha un suono stupendo.
@@vehrkalia Che bella Verona! La mia prima insegnante- super!- Lorenza Pollini è di Verona, suona in Arena. Riguardo alla Dusty, prova a ricontattare Arpitalia, oppure prova Eleonora Ligabò dell'Harp Center Lugano che originariamente è di Verona anche lei, magari può aiutarti! en.harpcenterlugano.com/ Per quanto riguarda l'arpa direttamente dagli USA, io non ho avuto nessun tipo di problema, né di dogana né di strumento. Io comunque ho comunicato molto bene con loro, sono gentili e disponibili, puoi chiedere come sono organizzati a livello assicurativo... Bellissimo, brava che inizi l'arpa, vedrai che ti porterà tanta felicità! Non conosco la Ogden di L&H, la proverò appena ho l'occasione... Se cápiti in Svizzera in futuro vienimi a trovare 😊
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 It was not a complaint I love your playing. It may be my laptop. Love your playing and will listen for more. I subscribed to your channel. If you have the time , would you watch me play my own composition that I composed Called Vampire Waltz Ronald Delby? Please let me know what you think of it. I am also a harp player but not advanced..
When I was looking to buy a harp 12 years ago - I tested out about 8 different kinds in a music store. But when I sat down and played the Dusty 36, my eyes suddenly filled with tears. That's weird, I thought - and i continued trying out other harps. But every time I came back to the Dusty, the same thing happened - except in addition to tears, I got goosebumps all over me. So of course I bought it. I've owned and eventually sold several other additional harps - but never the Dusty. Hands down, the best harp I've ever had. And the sound has improved over the years. A magnificent instrument.
I had the same when I tried the crescendo, I knew it was the one but couldn’t buy it at the time. A few years later I managed to hire one and eventually went on to buy it. Dusty harps are amazing!!
This is such a helpful video for anyone who can't try one out in person! Thank you for sharing your insights, and also for the beautiful playing!
Thank you for making these wonderful instruments! It's a joy to play them!
I have the Dusty Strings FH36 but with a staveback, so the back is rounded. Very comfortable, and still the gorgeous sound. My favourite harp!
Awesome!!!
Wow
I wasn't expecting such warm sound! And the veins look amazing
It's the warmest sound ever in a lever harp and the look is just outstanding...I like woods and rocks so for me this rustic beauty is awesome
I own 3 Dusty’s, FH26, FH36S, and a model they no longer make, FH32. This harp is over 30 years old and still going strong.
Great to know they're very durable!
It took me about 3 years to find the right floor harp - the Dusty Strings Crescendo. I have had it for 12 years, and liked it so much I bought a 2nd one that I store near where we spend summers and autumns....They are absolutely EXCELLENT lever harps. Yes, the one downside are the levers (I have no love of Loveland levers), but I put on plastic caps available through Dusty strings, and he shape of them on the levers makes them much easier to use.
Cool, thanks for sharing your experience!
Did you happen to write a review on Dusty Strings about it? Because there is a review on there about having bought one for their vacation home, too.
Great video. I have a DS Boulevard (34 strings). It has some gut strings and a beautiful sound and very light weight for easy transport. I use the blue and red bands to help identify the levers. I love your videos- very uplifting and instructional. Thank you!
Thank you for your kind words and your interesting comment about your experience with your harp!
Dusty Strings also makes the FH36S which has a staveback design, making it much more comfortable at the shoulder and between your legs. It has a flat facet instead of corners.. Same exact harp otherwise although the staveback gives it a slightly even more warm and rounded sound, which I happen to love. They both sound amazing, but I bet you would find the staveback more comfortable.
You're probably right!
I've found an FH36S for sale a couple of hours' drive away from me. You think it sounds even better than the model Chiara reviews here?
I have a similar Dusty String walnut 36 string harp. It's an excellent harp, and I would recommend it highly.
Excellent review. Thank you for posting. 🙏 🎶 🙏
Thank you for watching!
This harp sounds glorious. Just today, I looked up the USA price on the midsized full lever. They are $3100.00 here…. More than a new grand Jeep Cherokee . Thanks for your passionate review.
Yes, expensive but very much worth it.
I believe you are confused. Perhaps you have mentally added an extra zero. A new car is about $30,000. A lever harp is between $3,000 - $8,000. So, no. A lever harp is certainly not more than the price of a new car. A pedal harp... now that's a different story. The harp that Chiara is playing on this video is about $7,000-8,000 in the US. I doubt you could even get a decent used car for that.
@@wholovesyababy5574 perhaps the dealer mis quoted the price to me. yes, i am saying the price quoted me is more than my new mid-sized car. and, now, i have already purchased another choice. thank you for alerting me to the price confusion.
@@wholovesyababy5574I got my 2009 Subaru Legacy for 7,000. It drives like a dream. So, yes, you can.
I am newbie to playing music!! I bought a Dusty Strings Crescendo 36 because of the warmth. Been following you for a couple of months now, great tips, keep them coming.😮
I'll continue posting, stay tuned and good luck with the playing!
Do you mean 34? I am not aware of a Crescendo 36. I am actually buying a Crescendo tomorrow when they open. Today is Sunday so I have to wait. I've been weighing my options for a while and the Crescendo is the best bang for your buck. A beautiful sounding harp that isn't so expensive as the FH series.
@@bettertomorrow2625 Yes 34 strings. So worthy it! I spoke with a harp dealer AND technician in Denver. He is very pleased with this company.
@@bettertomorrow2625 Mine is an FH36, not a Crescendo. I hope you're happy with your harp!
tremendous passion for a good talent. ❤️i love both her and her passion for it
Here I am after watching your other video xD
I must say, I am absolutely in love with this harp even more than when I first saw it yesterday. Thanks for the review! I'm very much considering saving up for one of those beautiful dusty string harps now
...a great purpose! You'll be happy with a Dusty, they're fantastic!
I love Dusty Strings harps, such a rich sound! My small FH26 makes as much sound as a 36 strings Camac. About the coloured levers, my harp came with little blue and red latex rings around the Lovelands : MUCH easier to spot the right lever! Otherwise I would have had to paint the with nail varnish or something.
I'm glad that this aspect of the levers was improved! Enjoy your Dusty X
Continued recovery, sorry you were ill ❤️
Thank you, I'm lucky to recover fast!
Im so happy that Ive found you on youtube ! 😊 🌷 Im your fan 😊🌷🌷🌷
Thank you Gala, you're very nice
I don't know if someone else told you this, but you can buy little blue and red rubber rings that will fit on the levers to help with identifying them. I have a cherry DS FH36. Love it!!! Your description and enthusiasm for the harp is wonderful! I agree!
Dusty Strings sells the rubber rings and also Sylvia Woods.
@@lorikirkwood5414 Thank you for the tip, yes, someone mentioned it already, very helpful! Wow, how's the cherry wood? I love DS so much!!
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 The cherry is absolutely gorgeous, but I like all of the various woods DS uses. Hard to choose among them! Mine has the cherry blossoms inlaid in the pillar that is available now. Mine is the first one DS made with this inlay, about 5 or 6 years old. Her name is Spring.
@@lorikirkwood5414 Awesome!
Finally after years of dreaming to have a harp, finally got the $$$ and have ordered a Dusty Strings FH36s in Walnut and should be on its way in a month or two :)
Awesome!!! Super excited for you!!! You're going to have a great time!
I'm thinking of getting dusty Ravenna 34 as a new harpist, omg came across this review and now I'm subbed, I LOVE YOU!
Wonderful choice!
Hi Chiara! First of all, I love your videos, you're so funny and articulate! I don't play harp mysel, I'm more of a woodwind player, but I really love this instrument.
I have a suggestion about the issue with the black levers - maybe put some blue and red heat shrink tube over them so it'll be easy to see like with the Camac levers? And if you don't like the feel or something, this is easily reversible.
Thank you for your suggestion! I found a solution with some coloured tape. A heat shrink tube would be more challenging to put on...I don't have the great manuality that woodwind player have!😉
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 You're welcome!
Turns out, heat shrink tube works very well on tuning pins, too, makes it much easier to find the string you want to tune. Just cut a few pieces of blue/black and red to size and slip them on. If it's too tight, you can apply a tiny amount of mineral oil to the pin, less than a drop is more than enough, and then wipe off the rest so it won't discolor the wood. You might want to wear gloves doing that, I got a nice blister on my right thumb :)
OH NO! You make me want to buy a new harp.... what a great saleswoman you are!!!
:-D Maybe I have to change my job! :-D
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 haha please don't, I enjoy your lesson so much ❤️
Thank you! This was most helpful! The harp sounds gorgeous! Just curious, what is the name of the piece you play at the 6:45 mark?
@@deborahmccaw7127 It's the "Spagnoletta" by anonymous, it's a lute score, I arranged it for harp (but didn't write it down....). If you're interested, here you find the score: www.thisisclassicalguitar.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Spagnoletta.pdf
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 Thank you!!
I have this harp in bubinga. I LOVE IT!
Wooow! Id like to try it! Bubinga is supposed to be the best of the best!!
I‘m in love with this harp! Thanks, Chiara! I found the lever harp of my dreams! ❤
What is this tone you‘re playing? It is so beautiful! Could you do a full record of it with this DS harp?🍀
@@bunyamingorgulu4300 that's great, I'm glad you like it, it is really a beautiful harp!!
If you look for one, a colleague is selling hers (here in Europe) but I could put you in touch if you wish.
The tune is the "Spagnoletta", one day I'll write the arrangement and do a full recording of it!😁👋
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 Thanks, Chiara! Where does your friend live in Europe?
I can‘t wait to hear the full version of that beautiful piece!🤩
@@bunyamingorgulu4300 in Italy.... 😊 Write me an email info.chiarapedrazzetti@gmail.com and I'll put you in contact with her 😊👋
Dusty Strings makes bands and covers for the leavers that make it easier to see them.
Great, thanks for the information!
I don't play the harp, at all, but still, I keep watching your videos. WTH?!
Hahahaa that's funny! They're all about harp and music haha
I play many instruments and the harp is my last frontier. That said, this is a very insightful review, I can relate precisely to what Chiara is describing, incl. the pasta reference.
Haha!😁
Hi, Chiara! Me again. I'm on the verge of buying this harp or one very similar. The regional harp store has a couple of 36S harps that are used and a 34S with Camac levers that is new. I'm almost thinking about settling for the 34S, because Dusty Strings can't ship me a 36S before June or July. I hear what you're saying in the video, though, about the 36-string minimum. I'm torn. But I wanted to let you know that this video continues to be helpful to me, and I appreciate you!
My (not asked) opinion...what is 3 months of wait over a lifetime of satisfaction? 👋
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 I always value your opinion! I am generally a very impatient person. I am slowly (and reluctantly) developing patience by learning to play the harp. You're an inspiration, Chiara!
Chiara I loved this review! If you have time, I would love to hear your opinion on the Lyon and Healy Prelude 38 !
I'm glad you liked it! I'm totally sorry but I don't know the L&H Prelude 38. If I ever get a chance to put my hands on one, I will do a review!
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 thank you! It is a lever harp with similar dimensions of that of a pedal harp and has pedal harp tension!
@@resonantresendizrogelio I usually don't like those haha🤣 But we'll see!
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 oh! Why is that? :)
@@resonantresendizrogelio I usually don't like high tension strings on a lever harp. I think it muffles the sound too much and it takes too much effort to play. Just my opinion anyway!
I got a 26 Dusty Ravenna. Omg can you play more of your sample sound. That was so pretty!,,@1:20
Great, enjoy Ravenna! I'll write the piece at some point...
@Justina I'm sure you'll be happy with your 34!! :-D Let me know how you get on. So exciting!!!
Buongiorno Chiara, non ci sono parole per dire quanto è abile a suonare l'arpa. Bravissima. Una spettacolo.🎉 Cortesemente, mi può dire di quale legno è fatta questa Dusty String Fh36 ? Sapele, Maple, Cherry o Walnut ? Grazie mille. E ancora complimenti per il video. Grazie. Saluti, Anna 😊❤
Grazie mille, Anna, gentilissima! È una walnut 😀
Wish I could afford this harp!
Saving, saving and saving again... it could be a song...
Hello,in your opinion,What do you think are the differences between FH36H&S in walnut piece?I tried listening to audio on the website but I’m not sure about it...🤔
Hello, I'm truly sorry but I cannot answer this question as I don't have the experience of playing an FH36S! You can write an email to Dusty Strings, they're very helpful: manufacturing.dustystrings.com/harps
This is so pretty. But do to prices and my finance situation i settled for the Classic Blvd for my first harp :D
Lovely! Thank you, Chiara. I own this same harp in Bubinga and the sound is warm and round and gorgeous.
Mine has a stave-back body which is quite a bit more comfortable on the legs. Question: what is the piece
you play at 1:20? It's so beautiful I could weep. Cheers!
Thank you! Wow I'd love to try Bubinga some day. And I didn't know about the stave-back body!
The piece I play at 1:20 is just an improvisation.. using the circle of fifths in a- minor. That would be improvise in the following chords: a minor7, d minor7 , G7, C major7 (with then a B flat = C7), F major7, b half diminished, E7. And then start again. It's great fun and a really useful patter to know.
Have fun!
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 Thank you! You're a born teacher; your enthusiasm and love of the harp is a joy.
This is very helpful, Chiara! Are you very familiar with any Triplett harps, particularly the Axline (30 string)? That's what I have right now, and while the sound is good, I have a lot of trouble with the levers. I am thinking about trying to find an FH36 instead. Thank you for all you do!
Hi, no I'm not familiar with the Triplett harps at all, although interested as at the moment I'm looking for a new lever harp!
What levers are they?
Can't they just change the levers on your Axline?
Otherwise, FH36 it's a really great harp indeed!
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 Hi Ciara! Actually, I misspoke -- while there are issues with some of the levers, the main problem is with the tuning pegs -- for some strings, they keep getting loose during tuning, and the whole string goes slack. I have to hammer and squeeze the peg deeper into the hole in order to tune the string again. I talked to someone at a regional harp shop who said this is a common Triplett problem, and they no longer sell Tripletts because of it. My Triplett is my first harp, bought used about two years ago at a nearby musical instrument shop, when I wasn't as picky. :)
@@thesuburbanmorrigan It's a good thing to be picky!
Yes, the hammer is the only solution in this case, have you tried to speak with Triplett the harp builder about that? Maybe they can fix this problem!
Anyway, playing out of tune is the most horrible thing, so go for a Dusty then 🤗🤗
Dear Chiara, thank you for your amazing playing and very positive way of giving information 😊 Could you please tell, what do you think about Aoyama harps ? Im professional pianist, working in Japan, but I wish to start to learn playing harp, so, is it good idea to buy harp in Japan ? Thank you ! ❤️
Dear Gala, thank you for your nice message! I tried Aoyama only twice in my life so I'm not an expert at all. Also I tried only pedal harps. From what I remember though they were good instruments, so yes I think it's a good idea to buy a harp in Japan! Maybe ask Yuko Tomonaga, we met a few times, she's a good harpist in Japan: facebook.com/yukotomonaga.harp
She can probably help you more!
Have fun with the harp, it's similar to the piano!
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 Thank you so much for your kind answer ! 😊
Chiara, is there anything you can do to correct the sound level on this video? We have every speaker, headphone etc at 100%, but we cannot hear you.
Ah I'm sorry! it works fine for me, 😐 does it happen with other videos or just this one?
Thanks for sharing,it's really helpful! How do you think the Dusty 36 vs L&H ogden?
Thanks I'm glad it helps! Sadly I don't know the Odgen....can't say.. Sorry!
Hello Chiara! I was wondering what is your church repertoire? 🙂 I am planing to play in a local church mostly slow hymns and I was wondering what do you play. Have a lovely day!!
Hi Michaela! I have a lot of nice and slow repertoire, beautiful, not necessarely hymns, but also meditative slow airs from celtic music and some passacaglie, some reinassance music and some improvisations...
So beautiful! Is this an FH36S or an FH36H? I was wondering if the H or S is thinner than the other, decreasing the width between the legs. Do the H and the S models sound different? How does the choice of wood affect the sound? Thanks for showing the Dusty Strings!
Mine is a H! I don't have so much experience with other models, maybe someone can help?
One has a round back, one has a square back. I forget which is which. I believe the S is the round back. That's the difference, which also increases the price.
Unfortunately I had trouble hearing this video as well. Even tried using ear plugs and its a problem. Love your videos so hope there is someway of boosting the sound? Thanks
I'm totally sorry, I've no idea why....It works for me and it seems for lots of other people is no problem. Is there someone who can help you with your pc? I'm very sorry I can't help!
Have you played a Lyon & Healy Troubadour? I have a Troubadour V and it's my only harp at this time, but I assumed that pedal-tension lever harps such as the Troubadour came the closest to a pedal harp sound in a lever harp.
No I've never tried it! Actually here we have mostly pedal harp by Lyon and Healy, lever harp from them are not common at all...I'd be interested in trying one!
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 I meant to say, I've thought that if I ever get a lower-tension Celtic-style harp (and I'm sure I will!), I imagine I'll get a Dusty Strings model, and you make it sound so beautiful! Did you consider their FH36S model with the Staveback design, which is supposedly more comfortable to play since the soundbox doesn't have the corners? I know it's a little more expensive than the rectangular soundbox.
@@organist1982 I've never heard about the Staveback model, but If I ever am going to get another Dusty (which is quite possible!) I'm definitely going to consider it. So, thank you a lot for your advice!!!
Are these the standard levers that come on the harp? The company that I'll be buying my harp from offers Camac levers for an additional $225. I am trying to decide whether to keep the standard levers or get the Camac levers. Thank you for the great videos!
These are the standard Loveland levers which Dusty strings have. I don't know where your harp is being made, but Camac's levers are very good. It depends what the other option would be, though...
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 I'm buying a Dusty Strings harp, but the company that I'm buying from offers to replace the standard levers for the Camac levers for $225. I was curious whether it was worth the extra cost, or if I should stick with the standard tuners. Thank you for your response!
@@dbullock5526 If I were you, I would stick with Leveland, but your choice at the end.🙃
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 Thank you for the information. I didn't want to spend the extra money if there wasn't a good reason. I'll save the money for something else. :)
@@dbullock5526 💪
Hello Chiara, the Sound is amazing, are these nylon strings? I wonder how it sounds with gut strings.
Yes they're nylon, I don't know how it would sound with gut because I don't want to try😂 I'm quite skeptical about putting on different strings that what they're meant to be, because I think all the studies made on the harp makes sense with one type of strings for wood, tenion and lever regulations...But I know some harpists experiment a lot with that..I'm afraid to make a mess! 🤣
What was the piece you played I remember playing it as a student so I must have whatever book it is from but I can’t for the life of me remember what it is.
The piece at the end is the "Spagnoletta" by anonymous, it's a lute score, I arranged it for harp (but didn't write it down....). If you're interested, here you find the score: www.thisisclassicalguitar.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Spagnoletta.pdf
Thanks for asking that. I wanted to know too. :)
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 I love the lute as well. Beautifully done.
@@lovetoplayharp Thanks! Soon an arrangement for pedal harp and lever harp is going to be available on my website.
Thank you so much for this review, Chiara. I'm looking for a new lever harp and this is now definitely on my list. Which harps would you recommend that have 38 strings? I really want that full, rich, pedal harp sound
For the sound I would definitely go for a Dusty, but they arrive to only 36 strings. The closest to a rich and full pedal harp sound on a lever harp is then the Salvi Egan in my opinion: th-cam.com/video/CScyVDzH7so/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=ChiaraPedrazzettiARPAtelier
You could be lucky and find a handmade harp with those feature, but in my experience they vary a lot in sound, so you have to do a lot of research and try out many of them. I'm sorry I cannot be much of a help, all the other harps that I own or tried have a smaller sound than Dusty or Salvi.
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 Ciao Chiara! In terms of sound quality, would you choose the Dusty Strings over the Salvi Egan? I would prefer 38 strings, but also want a big, warm, rich sound (I currently have an Ana)
@@keiththurlow-bishop1617 In that case, I would go for a Dusty...
The song you spontaneously played is so beautiful! May I know the name of the song?
Thank you! It's just an improvisation based on the circle of fifhts.. th-cam.com/video/FHeZ06HVjak/w-d-xo.html&ab_channel=ChiaraPedrazzettiARPAtelier
exciting
Have you ever tried one of the carbon fibre harps? I would love to know your thoughts on these.
Yes, I have one, I'm not a huge fan... I'll do a video on it someday!
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 thanks that would be great. I've been told that if you play Dusty Strings harps very firmly (like a pedal harp) they sound twangy, so you have to keep a light touch. But you seem to be playing with gusto and it sounds good.
@@samanthathompson9812 I play it as I would play a pedal harp (maybe not a Lyon, more like a Camac😉) and I enjoy the sound it produces. Mine is not twangy at all!
I love the dusty strings sound, too. Although describing a dusty strings 36 string as light kind of blew my mind. I find the 26 string dusty string harps problematically heavy.
Haha you should check the Egan by Salvi, it's very big!
Are you pulling too hard? You shouldn't need to pull very hard to get a nice sound out of it. Aside from the Dusty I have a SE Fullsicle and the floppy tension is so much worse for the hands. You have to pull the strings out and to the side to get a decent tone. You can't pull back or you run into the next string up. They're so squishy it's awful and I have already had carpal tunnel surgery, so I know what it's like to have serious hand problems.
I have a friend with advanced arthritis and she owns 3 harps. One with low tension, one with medium and one with concert tension. The low tension makes her hands really hurt. It may surprise you to hear she finds the concert harp tension to be the least problematic because it takes little force to get a clean sound out of it.
@@bettertomorrow2625 I was talking about the weight of the harp, not the string tension. I don't have a car, I'm small, and I have fibromyalgia and hand issues. Lugging my Ravenna 26 (14lb without the legs, 17lb with) to church and back twice a week is somewhat painful and feels like I'm going to seriously hurt myself if I keep doing it. My SE fullsicle is so much easier to deal with. It is a bit less comfortable to play for long periods, and I do find it is more prone to buzzing, but at least I can safely get it to where I need to play, and then easily move it around on stage without worrying about hurting myself.
@@lizziesmusicmaking oh I see. I clearly misunderstood your comment. My apologies!
@@bettertomorrow2625 That's okay. I can see where the mistake came from. I seem to be a lot more sensitive to the weight and carryability of harps than most due to my situation.
Can have Camac levers. I would.
Yes you can ask!
Your review helped me choose the dusty, it arrives in September (ahhhhh i have to wait so long!! But so worth it), The sound is just incredible, i would love to be able to play as good as you! How many years have you been playing for?
Wow you'll enjoy your Dusty, congratulation!! I've been playing now for...24 years! And still learning a lot!😍😍
Is this Bubinga? Thank you!
Nope, it's walnut..
What about the soundboard, is it walnut like the harp?
What wood is your harp?
Walnut!
Ciao, posso chiederti dove l'hai comprata?
Ciao! L'ho fatta arrivare direttamente da Seattle, mi è arrivata all'aeroporto di Zurigo e sono andata a prenderla in macchina... Te la spediscono all'aeroporto più vicino! Altrimenti c'è qui in Ticino Eleonora del Ticino Harp Center che le riceve e anche Tartarotti di ARPItalia mi sembra che ne venda... Non so dove stai però ci sono queste opzioni che io sappia!
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 ricordo che quando contattai Arpitalia mi fecero tutta una manfrina per farmi capire che anche se erano distributori italiani non le volevano vendere, in sostanza, perché ovviamente volevano favorire le loro Camac. Ma onestamente, almeno per quanto mi riguarda, nessuna Camac è all'altezza del suono e della qualità della Dusty Strings! ❤️
Io avevo pensato in effetti di ordinarla direttamente dagli USA però temevo di avere problemi con la dogana, o comunque che avendola ordinata dall'estero in caso di problemi o danneggiamenti poi sarebbe stato un grosso problema mandarla in assistenza. Tu come ti sei trovata, a questo riguardo? Comunque io sto a Verona! Non ho ancora mai studiato arpa ma voglio iniziare il prossimo settembre-ottobre! Non vedo l'ora! È il mio sogno da tanti anni! Per iniziare pensavo di affittare una Salvi, ma quando potrò acquistare vorrei tanto una FH36H o una Ogden di Lyon and Healy, che pure secondo me ha un suono stupendo.
@@vehrkalia Che bella Verona! La mia prima insegnante- super!- Lorenza Pollini è di Verona, suona in Arena. Riguardo alla Dusty, prova a ricontattare Arpitalia, oppure prova Eleonora Ligabò dell'Harp Center Lugano che originariamente è di Verona anche lei, magari può aiutarti! en.harpcenterlugano.com/
Per quanto riguarda l'arpa direttamente dagli USA, io non ho avuto nessun tipo di problema, né di dogana né di strumento. Io comunque ho comunicato molto bene con loro, sono gentili e disponibili, puoi chiedere come sono organizzati a livello assicurativo... Bellissimo, brava che inizi l'arpa, vedrai che ti porterà tanta felicità! Non conosco la Ogden di L&H, la proverò appena ho l'occasione... Se cápiti in Svizzera in futuro vienimi a trovare 😊
I've my Dusty 36 and sine I'm not playing pedal harp repertoire Don miss the 2owe strings
Great harp, isn't it?! Even without pedal harp repertoire, you still might encounter the 2 bottom strings.
Audio is very poor. Cannot hear you
So sorry... it works for anybody else😮
Your sound is too low
I'm sorry, it sounds all right to me...!
@@chiarapedrazzettiarpatelie6470 It was not a complaint I love your playing. It may be my laptop. Love your playing and will listen for more. I subscribed to your channel. If you have the time , would you watch me play my own composition that I composed Called Vampire Waltz Ronald Delby? Please let me know what you think of it. I am also a harp player but not advanced..
I'm thinking of getting dusty Ravenna 34 as a new harpist, omg came across this review and now I'm subbed, I LOVE YOU!
Go ahed, they're wonderful instruments!