FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
HARP STUDENTS (PIANO STUDENTS SEE BELOW)
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Q: Where do I get a smaller harp like yours?
A: I have a Christina therapy lap harp from Triplett harps. This is the one I rent out and it comes with a lap bar and stand (extra cost for those). I love this harp for portability into hospitals, carrying, or walking around with.
https://triplettharps.com/christina.php
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Q: Where can I order strings for a small harp?
A: If you'd like to order strings for a smaller harp, I recommend getting harp strings from Triplett harps: https://triplettharps.com/support-strings.php
Q: I can't afford to buy a harp out right. Is there a rent-to-own harp program available?
A: The Sierra 36 string floor harp from Triplett harps is the one they have on the rent-to-own program, I believe. Please mention me if you go with them so they know you're coming from a teacher.
https://triplettharps.com/sierra-36.php
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You can also check out The Harp Connection's rental program. Ask for Kristin and let them know I sent you:
https://www.harpconnection.com/LeverRentalProgram.html
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*Keep in mind, you will be responsible for taxes and shipping. Shipping can sometimes range into the $500!
Q: Are there any harp stores in Colorado that I can try a harp out before I buy?
A: Yes! The Blevins harp store is located in Grand Junction, CO.
Q: What beginner harps do you recommend?
A: In general, I recommend a 26-34 string harp. The 34 string harp is going to give you the best range for lever harp music without being overly expensive. I recommend trying the Dusty Strings Ravenna 26, or the Ravenna 34 (which is what I have for you to play on at lessons), the Allegro or the FH26. The strings on these harps hardly ever break! They are also lighter to carry.
https://www.harpconnection.com/harpstore/harp-CelticHarps.html
https://www.harpconnection.com/
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They also have lever harps that have gut strings like a pedal harp. Those harps are going to be a bit more expensive, but their spacing and sound is going to be more like a pedal harp. The strings will break more often (gut strings are more sensitive to dryness and humidity) and they are very heavy. They are good harps to go with if you plan on progressing to a pedal harp. There will be little adjustment to string spacing.
https://www.harpconnection.com/harpstore/harp-ClassicLever.html
I also recommend harps from Blevins, Triplett, and Dusty Strings.
https://store.dustystrings.com/c-2335-harps.aspx
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Marini harps are harps that look kind of different with their curve, but my colleagues are very happy with these harps!
https://www.marinimadeharps.com/
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Fullsicle harps. These harps are my least favorite with sound, but they are very affordable and you can order them in a variety of fun colors. I recommend getting one fully levered. They have lots of accessories too!
https://harpsicleharps.com/harps/fullsicle-harp
And of course, check out Facebook marketplace. I can see a lot by a picture, but am totally willing to go with my student to check out a harp and ask all the right questions and really inspect the harp for you.
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Q: I'm buying a used harp, what should I look out for?
A: Check to make sure there are no cracks anywhere on the harp and into the wood. Check inside the sound box. If it is just a small crack in the veneer and not the wood, it might be ok. Ask how often it was tuned and how old the strings are. If the strings bend too much and don't sound good, they are old. A new set of strings can cost between $100-500 or more depending on the harp.
Small dents are usually ok and won't affect the sound. Cracks in the wood will eventually cause problems. Ask where the harp has been stored. If it hasn't been stored in a temperature controlled space, that will cause the wood to have issues, and possible cracking down the line.
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Check for any string buzzing. This means the lever or the tuning pin are out of place and it needs repair. Check to make sure that the tuning pins aren't too loose. If they are, it is usually an easy fix. You can push in while tuning to help secure it into place.
Try and get a tuning key, a cover, or case along with the harp as well. Ask if they have any extra strings or harp music. If it comes with a stand, be sure to have all the parts.
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Q: I have small blemishes on the wood of my harp! How can I fix these?
A: Blemishes and marks can easily be fixed with special touch-up pens. You can order these here in all different colors (Natural, Walnut, Mahogany, Plum Black):
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Q: What beginner harp books do you recommend?
A: I recommend the following books:
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*Fun from the First Vol 1 and 2
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Harp Solos Graded Harp Recitals by McDonald/Wood
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*First Harp Book, by Betty Paret
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*Harp Exercises for Agility and Speed by Deborah Friou
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*Technical Studies for Harp by Alfred Holy
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Grossi, Method for Harp (English)
*Recommended for your first lesson
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Q: What tuner do you recommend?
A: Here is the link to the tuning app I like:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/pano-tuner-lite/id449780743
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Q: How do I change a harp string?
A: https://youtu.be/HsrMLq-SUMI?si=FKS2FLHr1hCA6bdq
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Q: How do I tune a harp?
A: https://youtu.be/7xQ5qavP8Y0?si=gq9IHTJxOjjLzSLE
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PIANO STUDENTS
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Q: What beginner piano books do you recommend?
A: I like the Piano Adventures series.
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Lesson 1 Book:
Performance 1 Book:
and then eventually you'll need the skills book:
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Q: What app do you recommend to help with sight reading?
A: Here is the link to the app for the sight reading note horse game. It's called flashnote derby:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/flashnote-derby/id453126527
or this one:
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/learn-music-notes-piano/id1205662433
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Q: How do you label your keyboard?
A: There are removable keyboard silicone labels (you'll need to find one that has the right amount to fit your keyboard/piano, or you could always cut them to fit):
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Q: Do you have a sight reading chart that I can print out?
A: Sure! There are many out there with all different acronyms. I like this one best, with the exception of changing the bass clef line acronym to Good Boys Do Fine Always. I can email this to you as well.
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https://www.pinterest.com/pin/203999058112150727/
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Q: Can I try the harp at my piano lesson for fun?
A: Absolutely! It's a vertical piano. What better time to get exposure to a rare instrument!
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