If you've decided to play or purchase a harp, congratulations! While you may be confused or overwhelmed by the types and choices available, this article explains some of the choices and types of harps and includes several things you should know before making a final decision on what to play or purchase.
The pedal harp is sometimes also called a classical, concert, orchestral, or concert grand harp. It usually has between 41 and 47 strings, and is typically the largest type of harp. A pedal harp has pedals at the base that allow you to play in different keys without having to restring the instrument. This allows you to play the widest variety of musical styles.
A non-pedal harp is basically a harp without pedals, and is sometimes also called a lever, folk, or Celtic harp. Non-pedal harps have levers that let you adjust the instrument to different keys, although the levers do not provide quite as much versatility as pedals do. Lever harps can vary greatly in size, from lap harps to floor models up to 5 feet high.
Harps can be double, triple, or cross strung with either wire or nylon strings. Double and triple strung harps, as their names suggest, usually have 2 or 3 rows of parallel strings, and one hand plucks each row. Cross strung harps, on the other hand, have 2 rows of angled strings that cross each other. This allows you to reach each set of strings with either hand.
The type of music you enjoy playing will influence the type of harp you select. If you like jazz or classical music, consider a pedal harp to have the most musical flexibility. For Celtic, popular, or folk music, a non-pedal harp would probably be a good choice.
For children or small adults, size does not need to be a hindrance. Lap harps may be tempting due to their smaller size, but the need to balance it on your lap can be challenging for someone small. In fact, with correct posture and appropriate sitting height, children can play a floor harp, even if they are not able to reach all the strings yet.
Your budget can be one of the biggest considerations when it comes to purchasing a harp. While harps range greatly in price, pedal harps are usually the most pricey, with non-pedal harps generally being less expensive. Even with non-pedal harps, though, the price is still varies based on the size. The larger the harp, the more costly it usually is.
Ultimately you are the only one who can decide on the right harp for you. Consider all the options, including your personal preferences, and make the most educated decision you can. Enjoy playing your harp, and be proud of your musical accomplishments!
The pedal harp is sometimes also called a classical, concert, orchestral, or concert grand harp. It usually has between 41 and 47 strings, and is typically the largest type of harp. A pedal harp has pedals at the base that allow you to play in different keys without having to restring the instrument. This allows you to play the widest variety of musical styles.
A non-pedal harp is basically a harp without pedals, and is sometimes also called a lever, folk, or Celtic harp. Non-pedal harps have levers that let you adjust the instrument to different keys, although the levers do not provide quite as much versatility as pedals do. Lever harps can vary greatly in size, from lap harps to floor models up to 5 feet high.
Harps can be double, triple, or cross strung with either wire or nylon strings. Double and triple strung harps, as their names suggest, usually have 2 or 3 rows of parallel strings, and one hand plucks each row. Cross strung harps, on the other hand, have 2 rows of angled strings that cross each other. This allows you to reach each set of strings with either hand.
The type of music you enjoy playing will influence the type of harp you select. If you like jazz or classical music, consider a pedal harp to have the most musical flexibility. For Celtic, popular, or folk music, a non-pedal harp would probably be a good choice.
For children or small adults, size does not need to be a hindrance. Lap harps may be tempting due to their smaller size, but the need to balance it on your lap can be challenging for someone small. In fact, with correct posture and appropriate sitting height, children can play a floor harp, even if they are not able to reach all the strings yet.
Your budget can be one of the biggest considerations when it comes to purchasing a harp. While harps range greatly in price, pedal harps are usually the most pricey, with non-pedal harps generally being less expensive. Even with non-pedal harps, though, the price is still varies based on the size. The larger the harp, the more costly it usually is.
Ultimately you are the only one who can decide on the right harp for you. Consider all the options, including your personal preferences, and make the most educated decision you can. Enjoy playing your harp, and be proud of your musical accomplishments!
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Want to find out more about Celtic musical instruments? Then visit MusicWorldUSA to choose the best Celtic harp for your needs.
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