How to Play the Harp Simple Steps to Get Started
Katherine Dvoskin, Co-Founder of K&M Music School
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Author: Katherine Dvoskin | Co-Founder of K&M Music School
Published November 12th, 2024
Learn harp basics for beginners. Follow simple steps to choose the right starter harp, master techniques, tune properly, play songs, and develop practice habits. Get started unleashing your inner harpist now!
Have you always dreamed of playing the heavenly sounds of the harp? With this complete guide, you can learn how to play the harp as a beginner and quickly advance to beautiful music. Follow these simple steps to select the right harp, master techniques, tune properly, play songs, develop practice habits, and continue growing your new harpist skills.
| Harp Type | Recommended Brands | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Lever Harp | Lyon & Healy, Salvi, Mid-East | Ideal for beginners, easy tuning, portable |
| Nylon-Strung | Dusty Strings, Rees | Softer on fingers, warm tone, lightweight |
| Pedal Harp | Lyon & Healy | Advanced, orchestral quality, higher price range |
A Brief Background on Harps
Before learning to play, let’s briefly go over some harp history and basics like types and components. This context will help you better understand your instrument.
What is a Harp?
A harp is an ancient stringed instrument known for its distinctive triangular shape, column or arc design, and the ethereal music it makes when plucked. Playing a harp involves using the fingers and hands to pluck individual strings, which creates vibrations that result in cascading, harmonic sounds.
Harp sizes vary greatly from small lap harps to massive orchestral models. The number of strings also ranges dramatically between harp types, from just a dozen or so to nearly 100 strings on the largest concert grand harps.
Despite differences, nearly all harps have these basic components:
Pillar/Soundbox – Resonating body that amplifies and projects the harp’s sound
Neck – Top area holding tuning pegs to adjust string pitches
Frame – Foundational base that gives the harp its distinctive shape
Strings – Individual strings stretched vertically across the harp
Bridge – Position on soundboard where strings anchor to allow vibration
Tuning Pins/Pegs – Turn to tighten/loosen strings to change pitch
Tuning Levers/Pedals – Mechanisms on harps that allow easy tuning
We’ll go over some common harp types next and help you select the right beginner model.
A Brief History of the Harp
Harps have an extraordinarily ancient history spanning over 3000 years. Primitive harp-like instruments with few strings likely developed independently across many cultures before the iconic triangular shape evolved.
The earliest harps were first documented over 5000 years ago in Mesopotamia. Harps became associated with royalty and mystical religious figures in cultures globally, from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome to Africa, China, India, and the Americas. During Medieval times in Europe, harps symbolized spirituality and creative inspiration.
Later during the 19th century harp revival, pioneers like Elias Parish Alvars and Sebastian Erard advanced harp design and technique, setting the foundation for the powerful grand concert harps played in orchestras today. Now harps also feature heavily in Celtic, folk music, and other traditions that keep this iconic instrument culturally relevant.
Choosing the Right Harp as a Beginner
With many types available, selecting your first harp that suits your current skill level and needs is key. As a novice, you’ll want to start with an easy-to-learn model before advancing to more complex harps. Here are the main options and factors to help decide:
Lever Harps
We recommend starting with a lever harp as an ideal beginner’s instrument. These harps allow you to easily change strings to the desired pitch by flipping levers next to each string. This enables proper tuning as a crucial learning step before playing songs or melodies.
Lever harps also come in smaller sizes, making them lighter and more portable than larger pedal harps. There are affordable starter lever harp models on the market, making them perhaps the best entry point for any aspiring harpist.
Popular beginner lever harp models include:
- Lyon & Healy Troubadour – Classic starter pedal with clear sound. Comes in several sizes.
- Salvi Kit Harp – Portable nylon-string option great for travel.
- Mid-East Beginner’s Harp – Budget mini-harp with soft case. Good sound.
Nylon-Strung Harps
Alternatively, nylon-strung harps provide another great option, especially for younger beginners. Compared to traditional gut or wire strings, nylon harp strings have a warmer, mellow tone. They use fishing line-like material, resulting in a lightweight instrument with minimal string tension.
This makes nylon harps easier on fingers and hands while you develop skills and calluses. The softer strings are also more forgiving as you learn proper plucking techniques. Popular starter models include:
- Dusty Strings Learn & Play Nylon Harp – Portable practice harp designed for new players
- Rees Nylon Celtic Harp – Affordable 22-string nylon harp with carrying bag
- Lyon & Healy Prelude 40 – Top quality nylon 40-string concert harp
Consider Size, Portability, and Price
Other factors that help determine the right harp for beginners include size/height, portability needs, and budget/pricing constraints.
Size Guide
As a general rule of thumb:
- Choose a harp about 23-29 inches high for a small child learning harp or a petite adult.
- Standard lever harps around 46 inches high suit most average-height adults.
- If you’re very short or tall, look for a custom-sized harp to fit your frame.
Portability
If you’ll need to transport your harp frequently, prioritize more portable, lightweight models under 15-20 lbs. Nylon travel harps or smaller lap harps allow easy mobility.
Pricing
Beginner lever harps cost $500-$1000 for basic starter models while mid-range options run $1500-$2000+. More advanced concert lever harps can cost $5000+.
Basic pedal harps start around $2000+ and quickly escalate to $10,000+ for professional models with more strings and carved decoration.
Nylon-string harps offer affordable options ranging from about $800-$1500 depending on size and quality.
Renting a harp is an excellent way to start instead of buying. This allows you to try instruments, develop skills, and better know what you want long-term before investing in purchasing your harp.
Harp Accessories
Some other recommended accessories include:
- Harp tuning key – For adjusting string pegs and fine-tuning
- Harp tuning hammer – Fits tuning pins to adjust string tension
- Electronic tuner – Clips onto harp and detects accurate pitches
- Harp stand – Secure standing model tailored for your harp size
- Transport case with wheels – For safe mobility if carrying a harp frequently
Now that you know how to select the ideal starter harp model, let’s move on to learning fundamental playing techniques.
Mastering the Basics: Harp Technique for Beginners
Before diving into songs, take time to develop proper harp techniques related to posture, hand position, finger movement, plucking methods, and coordinating both hands. Solid technique makes playing easier and helps avoid injury from repetitive motion.
Posture and Positioning
Posture
Sit with a straight back, keeping shoulders relaxed. Avoid hunching or straining your neck to see the strings. Sit squarely centered with the harp, not at an angle. Maintain this upright posture every time you play.
Harp Angle
Position your harp so the strings sit at a slight angle back from your body. The precise angle depends on height but allows easier playability without awkward reaching.
Bench Height Use a bench or chair that allows your forearms to be level with the bottom row of strings. This prevents uncomfortable playing positions.
Music Stand
Place your sheet music stand either behind or just to the left of the harp’s column. The idea is to keep music within your sightlines while focusing hands on the strings.
Hand and Finger Position
Hand Position
Rest your hands lightly on the strings without tension. Keep wrists relatively straight but not rigid. Allow some flexibility to move between strings.
Finger Curve
Curve your fingers so your fingertips approach the strings at a 90-degree angle. Keep nails short on plucking hand fingers to allow fuller contact with strings.
Thumb Placement
Anchor your thumb gently on the soundboard above the harmonic curve. This gives stability for fingers to pluck. The index finger can also rest on a column or frame for added support.
Music Lessons in San Diego with K&M Music School
Expert Music Lessons
We offer Piano, Violin, Cello, Saxophone, Bassoon, Harp, Voice, and Toddler group lessons for students of all ages and skill levels.
Why Choose Us?
- 🎶 Boosts focus and self-discipline
- 🎵 Strengthens cognitive skills
- 🎼 Enhances cultural understanding
- 🎤 Builds confidence through recitals and performances
We Welcome Adults Too!
Book Your Free Lesson NowPlucking Fingers
Middle and index fingers generally pluck most often, but you can use any finger. Experiment to see what feels most natural.
Wrist Motion
Use gentle wrist motions up or down to shift hand position. Avoid excessive sideways wrist bending, which causes tension and strain over time.
Plucking and Coordination Technique
Plucking
Use the fleshy fingertip pads to pluck. Pluck with precision to avoid brushing other strings. Strike the strings with a confident flick, not just lightly grazing them. This produces the fullest tone.
Finger Coordination
Coordinate both hands by first plucking a string with the right, then quickly with the left before the tone dies out completely. This builds skill in playing rhythmically.
Alternation
Practice alternating plucking fingers in patterns. For example, pluck the thumb string with your middle finger and then your index finger to start developing muscle memory.
Efficiency Keep finger movements small and controlled. Only lift fingers as much as needed to avoid wasted motion. Strike straight down then pull released fingers back close to strings for efficiency.
Daily Practice Practice finger exercises and simple songs slowly. Repeat daily for 15-30 minutes to build muscle memory without straining hands. In time, the technique will feel natural.
Be patient with yourself as you develop coordination, accuracy, and speed. Proper technique is the foundation before advancing to play full melodies and songs fluidly.
Common Technique Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common beginner mistakes to be aware of as you learn so you can self-correct:
Tension – Keep shoulders, wrists, and hands relaxed without squeezing strings. Tension hinders fluid playing.
Finger Angle – Fingertips should strike strings at 90 degrees, not flat or sideways. This allows clean contact.
Bouncing – Avoid “bouncing” fingers far off strings between plucks. Keep motions compact to build speed.
Brushing Strings – Pluck each note with precision to avoid accidentally brushing other strings, creating discordant sounds.
Curving Wrists – Wrists should stay relatively straight, not bent left/right excessively over long periods. This prevents injury.
Slouching – Maintain an upright posture instead of hunching over the instrument during practice and play. This helps technique and prevents muscle strain.
How to Tune a Harp Properly
Playing in tune is vital for melodic music. Harps easily go out of tune over time as strings stretch and temperature/humidity changes. Learning to tune properly helps train your ear too. Follow these steps:
Listen and Assess Pitch Accuracy
First, train your ears by listening to a tuned harp or piano chord. Then play each string and recognize whether it sounds too high (sharp) or too low (flat). An electronic tuner helps develop pitch assessment skills.
Use a Tuner
Clip-on electronic tuners like harp guitar tuners attach to the top of your harp and visually display string pitches. The precise Hz reading takes the guesswork out until your ears learn the perfect pitch.
Know Your Notes
Memorize the note names in harp string order from lowest to highest. This helps identify which string needs adjustment if a tuner shows it as sharp or flat to the target pitch.
Adjust Tuning Mechanism
Use the levers or pedals on your harp to tighten or loosen a string until the tuner display (or your ear) confirms the pitch matches the desired note, neither sharp nor flat. Tune strings systematically from lowest to highest.
Check Tuning Frequently
Tune your harp before each practice session. Temperature changes and string stretching alter tuning over time. So get in the habit of checking and adjusting tuning every time you play.
With frequent tuning, your harp technique will steadily improve. Next, let’s use that developing skill to start learning simple songs and exercises.
Learning Easy Songs and Exercises for Harp Beginners
Now for the fun part…playing songs on your harp! As a beginner, focus first on easy tunes that boost enjoyment while allowing you to practice basic techniques without getting overwhelmed.
Play by Number Notation
Match strings to numbered musical notation rather than reading notes on a musical staff. This “color by numbers” approach works perfectly for beginners.
Low Octave Children’s Songs
Start simply by playing children’s songs using just the lowest 8 notes/strings. This allows you to build coordination using a narrow range. Familiar examples include:
- Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
- Row Row Row Your Boat
- Mary Had a Little Lamb
- Three Blind Mice
- Hot Cross Buns
- Happy Birthday
Single Hand Melodies
Try picking out basic melodies slowly using only one hand at first. This lets you focus intently on proper finger positioning and clean plucking technique before adding the second hand.
Read Music Notation
While playing by number is great for beginners, start working on reading standard musical notes and rhythm notation. Being able to sight-read sheet music unlocks more options for songs to learn.
Note Names
Memorize harp string note names from lowest to highest. This helps quickly identify which string matches the note on your sheet music.
Rhythm Counting
Practice tapping out notes and rests using basic counting. Play a string when you reach a note symbol. This develops your inner metronome sense.
Read Music Daily
Aim to sight-read a little bit of new music each day, even just a few bars. Reading different rhythms and intervals trains your musical ear and harp coordination.
Playing Both Hands Together
Start bringing both hands together on the harp by playing very simple songs hands separately, then together. Some useful beginner pieces include:
- Ode to Joy
- Amazing Grace
- Shenandoah
- Greensleeves
- Simple Gifts
- Pachelbel’s Canon in D
Focus on clean technique and accuracy before prioritizing speed. Enjoy the satisfaction of perfecting easy harp tunes and hand coordination!
Playing Melodies By Ear for Fun
Reading sheet music opens up more songs, but exploring music creatively by ear is enjoyable too! Try mimicking simple melodies you already know without written notation.
Music Lessons in San Diego with K&M Music School
Expert Music Lessons
We offer Piano, Violin, Cello, Saxophone, Bassoon, Harp, Voice, and Toddler group lessons for students of all ages and skill levels.
Why Choose Us?
- 🎶 Boosts focus and self-discipline
- 🎵 Strengthens cognitive skills
- 🎼 Enhances cultural understanding
- 🎤 Builds confidence through recitals and performances
We Welcome Adults Too!
Book Your Free Lesson NowMatch Pitches Note-for-Note
Pick out the starting pitch then locate the same note on your harp strings. One by one, pluck and match tones of any familiar melody you choose by interval steps through trial and error.
Start Extremely Slowly
Inch through simple nursery rhymes note-by-note until each sequence becomes familiar. Recognizing relative pitch intervals between notes takes daily ear training but this skill builds over time.
Gain Confidence First
Don’t expect perfection playing by ear as a beginner. Allow yourself to experiment slowly without self-judgment. Gaining confidence with pitch and tone is the key starting goal.
Enjoy playing by ear as a creative outlet without pressure. Consider it a delightful practice rather than a demanding performance. Allow yourself musical freedom to explore.
Develop Consistent Harp Practice Habits
Like learning any instrument, improving your skills requires regular, mindful harp practice. Follow these tips to create productive habits:
Schedule Practice Sessions
Dedicate at least 20-30 focused minutes daily to harp practice instead of playing randomly. Short daily sessions develop muscle memory far better than long periods once a week.
Set Specific Goals
Give your practice purpose by setting particular goals for each session, like perfecting a technique, learning a new song, or improving sight reading. Document your progress.
Make It Fun
Enjoying the process boosts motivation and consistency. Explore different genres. Form a beginner harp group. Reward milestones with small treats.
Record Yourself
Identify areas needing improvement by recording practices. Compare videos over time to appreciate visible/audible progress. Notice tension, posture etc.
On days when harp practice feels like a chore, remember your intention for playing. Reconnect to your enjoyment of beautiful harp music.
Avoid Overplaying
Take regular breaks during long sessions to prevent muscle overuse. Hydrate hands by soaking them in warm water. Stretch wrists/fingers gently. Know when to rest to avoid injury.
Conclusion
Learning the harp as a beginner can be challenging, but with the right techniques and consistent practice, you can build a strong foundation and play beautiful music confidently. By focusing on proper hand positioning, understanding music fundamentals, and regularly practicing essential exercises, you’ll overcome common struggles and accelerate your progress. Remember to stay patient, enjoy the journey, and keep pushing your limits to become a skilled harpist.
Call to Action
Ready to embark on your harp-playing journey? Start today by enrolling in our beginner harp lessons. Whether you’re aiming to master hand positioning, improve your tuning skills, or learn your first songs, our experienced instructors are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us now to schedule your first lesson and begin creating the enchanting sounds of the harp with confidence!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best beginner harp?
Lever harps allow easy changing of string pitches, come in small sizes, and offer affordable starter models. Lyon & Healy Troubadour harps are recommended.
How do I tune my harp?
Use electronic clip-on tuners to accurately detect pitch. Know note names and make tuning adjustments with levers/pedals from lowest to highest string.
What are some easy harp songs?
Start with simple children’s songs like Twinkle Twinkle Little Star using just the lowest 8 strings to coordinate both hands.
Katherine Dvoskin, Co-Founder of K&M Music School
She is co-founder of K&M Music School in San Diego, is a passionate music educator with over 25 years of experience. She offers expert piano lessons in San Diego. At K&M Music School, we teach Piano, Violin, Cello, Saxophone, Bassoon, Harp, Voice, and Toddler group lessons. Katherine's blog shares insights on music education, covering topics from toddler music group lessons to adult music lessons. Whether you're seeking private music lessons or group music lessons for toddlers near you, welcome to K&M Music School.
