Harp Care and Maitenance

Jacqueline assists all of her students with care of their instrument. Students are always welcome to bring their harp to a lesson for help with replacing a string, problems with tuning, or any other concerns. Here are a few general guidelines to keep in mind.

Temperature Considerations

  • Keep your harp in a room with a consistent temperature and humidity level.

  • Do not place your harp in direct sunlight.

  • Do not place your harp on top of or next to a heating vent.

  • Avoid extreme temperatures
    (e. g. do not leave your harp in the car for an afternoon on a hot summer day or cold winter night.)

Cleaning

  • Dust your harp regularly with a clean, dry cloth.

  • Do not use cleaning products on your harp.

  • Always wash your hands before playing your harp.

  • Cover your harp when not in use for dust protection.

Strings

  • Tune your harp regularly.

  • Replace broken strings promptly.

Tuning

Unlike a piano, which is generally tuned once a year by a professional technician, harpists tune their harps themselves. Each string must be tuned individually. A tuning key comes with the harp for this purpose. Harps can be tuned either by ear or by using an electronic tuner. Harps should be tuned on a regular basis and each time the harp is transported. As with any skill, tuning becomes easier with practice but frequently frustrates new harpists. Jacqueline works with new students on tuning techniques during their lesson.

Harp strings are made of different materials, including nylon, wire, and gut. It is normal for harp strings to break from time to time and they should be replaced in a timely manner. Older strings frequently fray and these should also be replaced. Ordering the proper string can be difficult because the numbering system for strings varies based on the type of harp. Once installed, a new string will not hold its pitch immediately. It takes several days for it to stretch, so frequent tuning is required during this period. Jacqueline is happy to help students with the replacement process until they become confident in their own abilities.

Additional Information

A more detailed discussion of harp care and maintenance for pedal harps is available at the Venus Harps website. It can be viewed by clicking here.