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Answer: very well. There’s little that can fail on a HD except some top sagging – by virtue of being under tension of the strings/bridges. But even this affects neither tone nor playability. It’s the kind of thing that you strap to a horse/keep in a rustic cabin at a lumber camp (why one of its nicknames is “lumberjack piano”).
Given that the builder did an adequate job, it’ll last as long as the glue holds..
If you watch craigslist there’s often a HD for sale in the area – typically a masterworks or dusty as these constitute the bulk of entry-level instruments. There’s one up in bozeman currently. And of course there’s ebay. Also Elderly Instruments in Lansing, MI often has a used one for sale – often Webster; one just sold two weeks ago. Michigan has a HD tradition and there are some good builders up there.
Masterworks is known for a long sustain – which is often undesirable in a HD. Some folks like it.
If you like the sound of cimbalom you may want to look for a bigger HD with a “floating” top (as opposed to a “fixed,” glued top).
I first saw one played up in Estes Park in 1983 – knew I’d have to get one and a local ft Collins store had a dusty on the shelf – was trying to sell for $200. Of course i immediately bought it and set about arranging Carolan tunes on it transposing from pattuck ball, Derek bell, etc.
I’d like a cimbalom too. I prefer the big, floating top, 3-strings/course instruments (I have 2 of them). I’ve had many others over the years.
What I like about the instrument is its big, resonant timbre and play irish airs and tunes. I played HD for many years until I was able to obtain a wire harp.
I do not like the instrument in ensembles, but rather solo or duet where the resonances are an attribute instead of a detriment.
No doubt the harp would be well received. Would it be possible to perform your work on a lever harp? Given the climactic challenges, and the obvious logistical challenges, it would certainly mitigate some.
Unfortunately, i havent had great success soliciting donations. I facilitate a music class for nonprofit agencies serving veterans and those in need. The program is wildly successful, yet there is great need for materiality. I wish I knew more about mechanisms and networking – it stands to reason there would be great resources from which to derive donations (in the US). Yet, I’ve had little luck in my efforts thus far. At this point I’m beginning to explore seeking grant funding.
Good luck!
I very nearly purchased William’s last offering 22-string “Antiquity”…but got a hardingfele instead (as I’m also afiddler). But of course, I was arranging to acquire Harriet’s large French harp and surely would have if I could have arranged shipping from Netherlands.
I’m only looking at this as it is local and inexpensive (I already have two triplett wires).
Ya I’d heard of someone or two converting a zephyr – which was why I asked. I’m very tempted…
Meanwhile, check out the old Waltons wire harp on ebay.. 🙂
Thank you will! I ran humidifier in the house prior to this. (I’m glad to not having to do it now with lower-level dwelling).
I’m relieved to have this harp working much better. Makes missing out on Ms Harriet’s Otway much more bearable!
I’m happy to report that my harp is holding its tuning oh about 80 or 90% percent better now. As I’d mentioned, this year I’ve had a better house for it. It does require me to have a window open a crack in my harp room – which is “garden level” – but I like fresh air anyway. The hydrometer in my fiddle case typically reads 40-50% RH.
I don’t know how old it is, but it was NOT a happy camper until this past year. It was notoriously bad, wrt tuning stability, since I acquired it about 6 years ago – while living in a dry environment – I think the humidity there was about 30% or less. I guess it just needed water! I confess to harp abuse – unfortunately I couldn’t help it at the time.
*Oh, it also requires me to zip it up when I’m done playing…which I abhor, but…
FWIW, I found a bag today that fits pretty well – they said it was a “Christmas tree” bag. :
In case anyone’s interested, the project’s been going well. Folks like that bluegrass stuff, so I’ve been using guitars, fiddles, banjo, mandolin, and accordion. Some friends have donated a few instruments.
I finally today found out where I can stow instruments, so I won’t have to haul everything in each visit – that’s a bit of a challenge 🙂
FWIW, trying to find from shipping was difficult. Additionally, I don’t want it damaged or lost, so it is staying in the Netherlands. Looks like a great harp.
Too, I needn’t be greedy. I have a wonderful harp, and it is enough for me.
And, I’m hoping that it will increasingly stabilize. It’s actually been much better this season.
All the best, and thank you
