Learn the Harp
Private harp lessons from fully qualified teacher, Emma Graham
Instruments
The harp is a very ancient instrument. It exists in many musical cultures and there are many styles of music available.
You might want to learn folk music or celtic music on the small, lever harp. You may be more interested in the classical concert (or pedal) harp. Both harps have the same basic technique and I teach to all levels on both types of instrument. I have three celtic harps and one pedal harp which are occasionally available to rent for a reduced fee, enabling you to start with a minimum initial outlay and get you going easily. Age is no barrier to learning this beautiful instrument. My oldest pupil began lessons at 88! For youngsters I recommend that they are 7 or 8 years old, depending on their height so they can sit comfortably at a 34 string lever harp. This is the size required if you wish to take ABRSM musc exams.
As well as the acoustic harp I also play a full size, bright blue electric harp! This is ideal for learning jazz and pop styles. I can advise on amplifying your own harp.
Lever Harp
I recommend a minimum of 34 strings although sometimes exceptions can be made. This instrument has levers across the neck which raise each string by one semitone. This gives a wide range of keys. A lever harp is the most affordable way to start your journey as a harpist. If you wish to sit exams, the lever harp syllabus goes right up to grade 8.
Pedal Harp
This is the tall instrument you will see playing in an orchestra. Although they come in a range of sizes they are all VERY big! This instrument has 7 pedals. Each pedal has 3 different positions and they allow the harpist to get three notes out of every string. This means all the keys are available. The full size concert harp has the same range as a piano.
As well as an acoustic harp, Emma also has a fully electro-acoustic instrument with amplification and loop pedal effects.
Music Theory
In order to read a book you must first learn to read words. It is the same with music! To read the music you need to understand how it is written down and that is where music theory comes in. There are many ways of making theory fun. Sticker books for young children and interactive ipad apps make it all a much more enjoyable part of your lesson!