[Janna Tuominen]

I put another book under my harp and it actually helped a bit! My arms feel way less tired now.

I also asked my teacher about this problem and she assured me that as a beginner, I should not worry too much as it is normal for a new habit/body position to take some time to feel comfortable. She told me that when she started playing the harp a long time ago, she also got tired arms. The problem obviously disappeared with time and practice.

All of your suggestions have been really helpful, thank you :)!

[Janna Tuominen]

Thank you for the tip, Balfour. My Juno has long legs and I’ve actually further elevated it by placing it on a few sturdy books while playing. I sit on a very low chair (with knees aligned with thighs, though, so not crazy low). But if I remember correctly, my arms get tired even during lessons at the conservatory where we have a much larger level harp. I’ll have to make a comparison.

[Janna Tuominen]

Thank you for the advice to both of you! Yesterday I tried playing in a way where I engaged my shoulders and upper arms and it seemed to work. I’ve noticed that my right arm has the tendency to become relatively immobile while playing for some reason.

And I think you’re right, Gretchen! It’s hard to assess a problem without seeing it. But it really helps to hear what factors are at play when creating sound on the harp.

[Janna Tuominen]

Thanks for the reply, Gretchen! I do running, but I don’t exercise the muscles of my upper body at all. So if I’ve understood correctly, upper arm fatigue has nothing to do with correct/incorrect technique?

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