FAQs

How hard is it to learn to play the harp?

Learning any instrument requires hard work and practice, just like learning how to dance or play a sport. I find that if the student is seriously interested and understands that learning to play the harp requires a time commitment on their part to practice everyday, most students usually have no trouble learning how to play the harp. It does take time to learn, however, and in the beginning time must be spent learning how to physically pluck the strings correctly to produce the best tone. Usually by the end of a semester the student has begun to master playing simple pieces.

What age is appropriate to begin taking harp lessons?

My beginning students have ranged in age from as young as 5 years old to retired adults. I have no set specific age for young students to begin taking harp lessons, but there are some important factors I consider. The student must be able to properly sit behind their harp and comfortably reach the strings, their hands must be large enough to reach intervals of at least a 6th between the thumb and ring finger, and they must have a reasonable attention span for their age as well as good concentration abilities.

Do I need to be able to read music before I begin studying harp?

While a previous knowledge of how to read music is helpful, it is not a prerequisite for admission to my studio. Learning to read music is an essential skill that I teach during harp lessons.

Do I need to own a harp?

Students must have a harp to practice on; I can assist you with a finding an appropriate harp for your individual needs. Lever harps and even some pedal harps are available for rent by various retailers, manufacturers, and individuals, and many of these sources require a teacher recommendation. I can assist you in finding and selecting a harp to purchase or rent.

How much does a harp cost?

Good quality lever harps for students range in price from around 2.000€ to over 5.000€, pedal harps cost upwards of 12.000€. I suggest looking directly at harp manufacturers and retailers sites to find specific prices.

How much do harp lessons cost?

Please contact me for current lesson prices here.

How long are lessons?

I teach once weekly or bi-weekly lessons in time periods of 30 minute, 45 minute, and 1 hour long lessons. Lesson length and frequency are determined by the student’s age & goals, and decided by mutual agreement between parents, the student, and myself.

Can parents attend their student's lessons?

I encourage parents of younger students to sit quietly, observe lessons, and take notes. This way parents can see first hand the students’ progress, learn how and what the student needs to practice, and in turn parents can more effectively help with the practicing process at home. Older students, however, may not be comfortable with their parents observing the lesson, and I encourage this option as well because older students need to begin to learn the process of taking responsibility for their own practice skills.