How do I find the perfect lever harp for me?

Eeny, meeny, miny, moe - which is the best harp!  Since I am frequently involved in helping students and friends buy or sell their harps; I want to share what I think is important in choosing THE one.  Finding the perfect harp for you can be a daunting process, especially if you are new to the harp world.  There are almost limitless variables to consider and since a good harp is a big investment, you want to be as informed as possible.  Initially, I always advise new students to rent for a few months, for a couple of reasons - first, to make sure that playing the harp is something you want to pursue; and second, to become better versed on what is the best harp for you.  After playing for just a little while, you will develop an ear, appreciate the sounds of different styles of harps and develop preferences.

Since most beginners will start on a lever harp, the focus here will be on smaller harps.  We will discuss additional features of pedal harps at a later date.

In making your selection, you first have to be able to answer the questions below.  Your teacher will be a big asset in helping you:

How many strings to I want on my harp? Folk harps range from 28 strings to 40.
Do I want full levers, none, or partial?
Is ease of moving the harp important to me?
Do I want new harp with a warranty and a higher price tag, or used "as is"?
What string spacing works most comfortably with my hand?
Do I like looser tension or tighter?
Is the size right for my height - is it comfortable to sit behind the harp?
Which type of harp back feels best resting on my shoulder - square (stave back) or round?
Is the harp strung in folk or pedal gauge strings?  Which feels best on my finger tips?
Is nylon the sound that I like or do I prefer the sound of gut strings?
Is the harp made by a reputable manufacturer?
How much am I willing to spend?
And lastly, what wood finish and overall look do I like?  Strictly a personal decision there.

If you are considering a used harp.  There are many places to look for a quality used instrument.  Again, help will be invaluable in this area from your teacher.  When purchasing used, here are some additional questions to ask the seller:
   Age of harp - serial number.  The age can be verified with the manufacturer.
   History of ownership - original owner?
   Has it been keep strung, regularly played?
   Where has it been housed?
   What accessories come with it?
   Any cracks and dings - are they structural or merely cosmetic which can be repaired?

   Be sure to play the harp and assess the sound and feel.  Then weigh the cost and quality of a
   used harp at a lower price with the comparable new harp with a warranty.

GOOD LUCK - and happy harping!

Oh, Give Me a Home -- SOLD

Looking for a quality lever harp?  Consider me:  I am a 36 string Salvi Livia, built in 1998 and have a walnut finish.  I've had 2 owners.  The serial number is #20768.  A new Livia sells for $4,250, so I am a bargain at $2300.   I come with a dust cover and a heavy duty fitted, padded transport cover with convenient wheels which is like new (sells for $340)!  My tuning key and a digital tuner are included.  Height, weight and all dimensions can be found on www.salviharpsinc.com

Notes from sales agent (aka - me):  This is a former student's harp 

who is no longer playing.  The harp is fully strung and holds its pitch and has a full, rich, sustained tone.  It is strung with folk nylon and has a full set of sharping levers.  There are some minor nicks and scrapes as any harp would pick up along the way.  There is also a nonstructural crack about 1" long off the side of the second sound hole from the bottom.  It does not affect the integrity or sound of the harp in any way.  An estimate to repair this is $200 by a good luthier or competent furniture repair person and that is reflected in the price.  Located in south Orange County, California.  Any shipping costs will be paid by the buyer.  Sold as is.

Call, text or email with any further questions.