hello all. im new to the tribe and would like some opinions on what would be a good beginner harp, at a reasonable price. i looked at some at the kc irish fest, that seemed to be a farce but i degress, i found stoney end music. they had some beautiful harps, they sell finished and kits. i was wondering if anyone had any advice on size to start with or a company to deal with? thanks all
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Arkansas
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Re: new to tribe and i have some questions
Mon, October 18, 2004 - 8:48 AMMost certainly, O Blue Dog!
I got the catalogue for Melody's, and found a nice little kinda off-brand wire strung from Argent Fox for around $500. Honestly, though, I would not start right off with wire strung harps. THey are VERY cranky, and are HELL on your fingers until you get used to them. I suggest starting with nylon strung, and you can get a decent one for around $200 if you're clever. I suggest Melody's or Lark in the Morning for good catalogues. Stoney End is good. THe best my father and I found were either Triplett (very expensive, but the highest quality short of making your own) and Dusty Strings (A little more reasonable) both companies make the most BEAUTIFUL looking and sounding harps, you will not be disappointed. If you ever find one by Michael Braley, or Chris Caswell snap it up, they are very hard to find and the best you will find anywhere.
I would start with a relatively small harp, only maybe 29 strings to begin with. It's easier to keep tuned, and you can work out simple melodies and basic chords with it. The one I have now is about that size. They're wonderfully portable at that, and you can take them to events, camping, or just on your front porch.
I hope this helps some.. if you want to know anything else, let me know!
