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Hi there, and welcome to the forum and to harping!
I actually started out exactly the same way, with the exception that I had read once that harpers placed the harp on their left shoulder, so I did that, too! I had a difficult time when I found an intructor re-learning everything, but I actually made much faster progress than I had been making with my non-tradtional method.
I’m not, nor do I want to be, a concert harpist, but I can and do play for weddings, receptions, and other events, and also compose and arrange my own music. I believe I would have ultimately hit a wall with what I was able to do if I hadn’t found a harp teacher and re-learned how to play. When I think back to how limited (but yes, nice-sounding!) the tunes I played teaching myself are compared to what I can play now, it really makes me aware of the progress I’ve made. I thoroughly love playing the harp, and as long as you love what you do, and are satisfied with what you’re doing, enjoy the ride! If you reach a point where you feel you need some help, then seek a teacher at that point. We’re all here as well to help you!
Hope this helps,
Andy
Thank goodness it was an easy fix, Sid! I had a foot snap off a Salvi McFall lever harp during a wedding once, and had to prop the harp up on one side. If only it had happened at home!
In your photo, it looks like your harp is ebony and bronze? Very beautiful!
Andy
Congratulations on the new harp, Cynthy, it certainly is a beauty! I’ve always admired the appearance of the Thormahlen harps, but haven’t had the opportunity to play one. I’m sure you’ll have many years of enjoyment with your new harp!
Andy
Congratulations, Tony! I’ve always liked the 85 series, and the 85P I had was a great harp. I’m sure you’ll have a blast playing it!
Andy
Hi, Tony: just wondering if you got your new harp yet and how you like it! You’ll have to post some pics when you get a chance!
Andy
Hi, Kay; I have an ebony Clio I got at the beginning of the year, is that the one you were thinking of?
Andy
Hi, Leonard –
Sounds like it was a great event. I hope to get to a couple harp events this coming year (but Canberra is a tad far for me, lol!). Did you take any pictures you can post?
Andy
Hi, Ginger: Make sure you explain your concerns to your teacher; he/she will instruct you in ways to play that will not
Hi, Carian: Just thought I’d throw in my recommendation for renting to start as well. When you’re starting out, your teacher will be of immense help in ensuring you are using proper posture, hand position, etc, so that youwill reduce your chances of aggravating your
Hi, Frances:
You didn’t mention what brand or model harp you’re playing; as Tayce said, different harps are suitable for different players. I personally like smaller pedal harps with closer string spacing and find them easier to play (particularly in the treble). If you’re playing a full size concert grand or semi-grand, perhaps one of the 44 string models would be a better fit for you. I have a Clio with extended soundboard that has an amazing sound, and I find it so much easier and more comfortable than just about any concert grand I’ve tried.
I have a Ford Explorer and love it for harp moving. I had a Taurus wagon before that which was actually easier to load a harp into. Funny story…I move my harp more often than I have three or more people in my car, so I usually leave the back seats folded down, and lots of old blankets laid out for extra cushioning. One day, I overheard a co-worker say “Is Andy doing okay? I think he’s sleeping in his car!”
