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LOL Sid! I definitely don’t want to look constipated as I play! On the other hand, there are times when I think I look “thoughtful” or something along those lines and still get the smiling comments. Do you think this is more of an issue for female harpists?
Several of the Harp Therapy websites have reading lists on their websites. Even if you’re not interested in interactive therapy, you would benefit from checking out other websites.
I’m not sure if Sylvia Woods sells it anymore but you used to be able tto get a backpack case for the harpsicle which would be ideal for biking. My harpsicle is also by camping harp.
I’m not familiar with how the Smartwood Harp sounds. I do have a Harpsicle and love it. No, it doesn’t sound like my other harps but it has a voice of its own that is sweet and bright. Harper Tasche teaches in his workshops to “play the harp in front of you”. Figure out what sounds good on that harp and don’t play the stuff that doesn’t 🙂
I looked it up out of curiosity and found an audio sample
[audio src="http://www.lorenz.com/Med/Sample/45_1147R.mp3" /]I haven’t played the Magnificat but I’ve played some Christmas music by Hayes. If it’s like the Christmas music, it won’t be difficult. Somewhat pop oriented. If I remember right, the harp part is basically written in one line. It’s more the upper register, “sparkly” notes for effect. I play lever and there were large breaks between sections where the harp played so plenty of time for key changes. There was also a rehearsal recording available which really help as generally I only attend the dress rehearsal and the one previous if I’m available.
Tell us what the Magnificat is like if you play it!
Thormahlen Serenade http://www.thorharp.com/pages/price_list2008.htm
I have it! Sadly that one’s not in there. The only sheet music anywhere seems to be a fan’s unofficial transcription.
I think some of those inner ribs for the Merlin allow it to be so light weight. I think a typical harp doesn’t need that extra bracing. This is my opinion. I’m not a luthier, or do I play one on TV 🙂
There is a fun story on Sylvia Woods about how a woman’s Dusty Strings saved her life. I would assume that the harp was pretty sturdy to be able to stop the car 🙂
http://www.harpcenter.com/category/harp-life-saver
I have a Thormahlen Serenade that has been beat around a fair amount (I have kids and have played in all sorts of weather). It’s definitely sturdy.
Hope this helps.
Jennifer
Maybe also consider adding effects such as PDLT so the sound of the harp isn’t so bright. Experiment with glissandos. Glissandos in thirds or with some of the strings damped will sound darker. Plucking chords with one hand while holding the strings close to the soundbaord (“Xylophone”effect) produces a muted, darker tone.
So sorry to hear. I hope that you will still be able to play for pleasure. I don’t know if it will help but are you familiar with the blog “Living with Bob” on Dysautonomia? I think you would be familiar with some of her struggles.
I think getting the PT involved is definitely a good idea, especially with the scoliosis and CP. Will the surgery help the scoliosis issues? A PT may be able to help you more with proper bench and music stand height for your needs. Also, if you have issues with muscle spasticity or hypotonia, a PT will be able to prescribe appropriate stretching excercises for you. Good luck and let us know how things work out.
Stoney End Distributes in the UK through Hobgoblin Music. I’m not sure where the bricks and mortar store for Hobgoblin is though. Maybe you could order a double strung through Hobgoblin?
Are you also familiar with the Harplust list? It’s a pretty comprehensive list of builders. I would think that there is someone who would make a double strung.
