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Dear Helen,
I am the harp teacher who produced this video. The answer is absolutely YES for some people.
Just as each person is unique, there are many approaches to teaching and learning. The reason for the approach that I chose
in the video was to demonstrate that learning the harp need not be a daunting endeavor. Many of my students in person here
in WA, and online via Skype, are seeking a form of stress relief. The harp represents that peace. And the music I recorded was
created to offer this peace.
With all of my individual private students, I customize the approach and incorporate cross-sensory experience, pitch/ear training,
music theory and technique, building on their strengths, and honoring their challenges. Most of them are brand new to music,
and become motivated because they may otherwise be intimidated by strict conventional methods. Many of them are "survivors"
of piano recitals or other harp teachers who told them they would "never learn to play the harp." Many of my students have
physical and emotional challenges. My background as a professional therapeutic harpist and social worker support them as
they learn at their own pace, in customized sessions.
The goal I have for my students is to be honored by the pace and methods we use, to experience something in their lives that
does not add, but rather reduces stress, and to give them confidence and joy. Many of them choose the Harpsicle in their choice
of natural maple or color, and students resonate with their color of choice, and express the love they have for their instrument,
spending more time in their hearts than in their heads.
I appreciate the comments and informative content provided by Cynthy Johnson. I honor all teachers and students. And,
in Introductory Sessions I am quick to refer prospective students to others who may be a better match for style, goals,
and personality.
My students do learn basic technique and become as proficient as they wish. You may read comments by my students and my
bio to get a sense of the heart-centered approach I use in teaching and in supporting my students.
There is a new DVD for learning basics on the harp which is quite good. But, as most harpers and instructors will attest, it is
important to have some support, either in person or online, to reinforce the concepts presented.
Very best wishes to you in learning and loving the harp!
Sincerely,
Christine Grace Magnussen
Holistic Harmony/HarpSpirit
peacecalm.com
HarpSpirit.comI was surprised to see so many responses, and such great input – thanks!
Since making the decision to work on this, I have gone completely cold turkey and its funny because I am learning so much about my deficiencies its not even funny! I have done maybe about
Wow! This is like the question that never goes away. It must be over a year ago I started this string. Thanks to all you people for your input. As I mentioned, long ago I have since bought a used L+H (got a gig with it tomorrow for that matter) and another high-end small harp. However, I was playing an old
andy, how long did it take you after learning proper fingering to feel that you were in your comfort zone with it?
I am no expert on harps at all, as I am a real newbie and am learning on a simple Harpsicle.
I can tell you that I battled this same issue in my mind of almost a year before buying the harpsicle.
Thank you Tony.
The thing is there is a big payoff with being able to play things quickly via this cheating, and I have been unable to move on from it.
Wow, thanks for responding so quickly, I didn’t expect that!
Interesting what you said about the old timers, I thought it was the other way around … but then again, I do remember reading about the pinkie amputations, so
I once owned a early Caswell harp that I loved, but did not learn to play well because of many reasons of which I will not bore you. Had to sell it to keep on a
I started piano at the age of 5, and started harp when I was a sophomore in high school, and I have to say that I also have not had any trouble with conflicting technique.
Now, when I actually think about what my right hand is doing in terms of switching its direction of play, I’m amazed that it seems to just happen without any act of my will. Perhaps I had a harp teacher that never ever let me get away with not having my thumb high or not following through over my hands. So I never associated harp technique with piano technique.
Perhaps your hand position may be adjusted in such a way so that your thumb has to be on top. I don’ t know. But I agree with the others in not feeling
Eileen, I can’t begin to tell you how much I have enjoyed your post. I am a “late in life” harp beginner, and I cut my musical teeth on many of the musicians you’ve mentioned.
Your sister was certainly a stand out among all of those rather care worn looking men in Desi’s orchestra. It really was a great sounding group. She had such a twinkle in her eye. I always loved the orchestra’s segments in the show, and it’s all the more fun to watch Nancy now that I know more about her.
Although most of those wonderful musicians have left us, it’s
