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Harp Rentals and Purchases
Many people are surprised to discover that harps come in a wide variety of prices and sizes - as seen in the opposite picture. Students are not expected to immediately make a large investment in an instrument - rentals are available. The different sizes of harps also make it possible for small children to play. Jacqueline accepts students as young as five.
Lever Harps
Commonly referred to as a Celtic harp, Irish harp, or folk harp, these harps are smaller, more transportable and less expensive than a pedal harp. Many students begin with this type of harp for these very reasons. These harps range in height from around 3 feet to 5 feet and have from 24 to 38 strings. The above picture shows Jacqueline's two lever harps. Some harpists specialize in folk music and continue to play a lever harp throughout their professional life.
Pedal Harps
Pictured to the left, a symphony orchestra or a classical performance will feature a pedal harp. The pedal mechanism allows for more harmonically complex music than the lever harp. They are generally around 6 feet tall and have from 44 to 47 strings. Some students choose to begin with this type of harp, although younger children are not big enough to make this practical from a physical standpoint. Many students begin with a lever harp and choose to switch to a pedal harp after a few years.
Choosing a harp
Jacqueline is happy to discuss which harp would best suit a student's needs and assist with arranging a harp rental or purchase. She also offers continued help and advice about maintenance and care of the harp. Although some teachers require students to bring their own harp to lessons, Jacqueline's studio has a pedal harp and two lever harps for the student's use during lessons.
Listed below are harp companies and centers where harps are available for rental and purchase. Some rental programs include a rent-to-own option. Additionally, Jacqueline is sometimes able to arrange a private rental or sale.