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I sold an Una at the end of last year (the first one in Australia). What I really liked about it was that it has a really even tone throughout, so you don’t hear the jump between the gut strings and the metal. The only potential issue could be that it uses SilkGut and SilkCopper strings, which could be slightly harder to get if one broke, depending on where you live.
I don’t know what the optimal temperature for a harp is, but I’m writing from Australia where it is very common to have outdoor weddings at all times of the year. If we said no to playing outdoors we’d never get any work! I have on numerous occasions played outdoors on days that were between 35-45 degrees celcius, which I know is not ideal for the instrument, but I’ve never had any issues and my harp is over 20 years old. (My newest harp which I bought a little over a year ago turned up to my front door in a box that said “don’t store over 35 degrees”… it was 39 that day!) The main thing I state in my contracts is that full shade in the form of a large outdoor umbrella or marquee must be provided. If they don’t want to provide it I charge them extra to hire one and bring it myself. I also stipulate that we never ever play outside if it is raining or if there is a chance of rain (even with the aforementioned shade). I have had several couples get very stroppy with me when I refuse to take my instrument out of the car because it is clear the rain will start any second…. only to have it bucket down right in the middle of the vows! I always suggest they have a wet weather plan just in case, particularly if it is that time of year. The main issue I find is the wind! All it takes is a slight breeze for your music to start blowing everywhere, anything stronger and it can take your music stand out too! And there’s only so much pegs can do 🙂
Thank you for all of your suggestions!
For some reason I didn’t get notifications of your replies, and I just logged in to see if anyone had, and behold! A wealth of wisdom!
Thank goodness for Harp Column Forums!!xx
Just thought to let you all know, a student ended up buying a Mikel lever harp and it has turned out to be a very decent instrument! It seems very sturdy and has a lovely clear bright sound. Of course one of the tests of a good harp is how they stand up over time, so I guess we’ll see how it goes!
Hi Elizabeth! I ended up leaving out the last 2 semis of each group, which was still a bit nasty! I spoke with the conductor and he said that as long as the right hand is voiced clearly and the harmonies are there that is the main thing! I think if I play it again some time I might do as you suggest and revoice the left hand in semiquavers. 🙂
