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The Celtic Harp is made from beautifully crafted wood, is unusual, easy to play and may be used as an accompanying instrument for voice. It is affordable and very portable. Because it is so unusual, and possesses both physical and sonic beauty, it is a favorite at any social gathering. Even standing alone, it whispers, "...play me..."
I am often asked why I chose the Celtic harp as my instrument. People believe I'm kidding when I say, "Because I fell in love with it first and second, because it was the only instrument I knew that I couldn't sound bad on."
Seriously, I have tried piano, violin and guitar. For me, they were unrewarding. With the harp, my progress was rapid. I was willing to spend hours practicing and learning harp skills and general musical knowledge. I could recognize my mistakes and work on them without once being disheartened by atrocious sounds. This was of great benefit to me and certainly to my family and neighbors.
At a time when I could play maybe three simple songs requiring both hands, I was asked to play for an Elizabethan Festival sponsored by the music department of California State University at Northridge. I certainly wasn't that accomplished, but my little twenty-five string harp charmed all who saw and heard it.
Any beginning student, regardless of age or peer group, will receive that all important immediate recognition which is so vital to continuing in music.
The music for Celtic Harp is exactly like that for piano. From the beginning, the harpist learns to read both the bass and treble clefs of music and learns harmony and chordal accompaniment. The strings are laid out in the same manner as the white keys of the piano keyboard and are color coded for ease. The student learns by playing in the simplest musical keys, the keys of C major and A minor.
Playing in other keys follows rapidly since changing keys involves only the turning of a few levers before beginning to play. Of course, some accidentals (flattened and sharpened notes) can be played, however, they are usually introduced after the student has a clear understanding of the basics.
Classical Harp
If a student wished to play the classical (pedal) harp at some point, all that has been learned on the Celtic Harp is directly transferable to the concert instrument.
The first time I sat down at a pedal harp was in the music department at Pasadena City College. Their orchestra director happened to hear me and insisted that I join the orchestra. He was desperate for a harpist. I told him that I knew nothing about the pedals, but he was adamant.
One lesson from Sylvia Wood on how to use the pedals, a few hours of intense practice with those pedals, and I was prepared to take a place in the orchestra. During that school year, I was able to develop the skills to play whatever music was placed before me. Although Celtic harp remains my instrument, I now have an easy confidence playing most orchestral music for the larger instrument.
University undergraduate and graduate degrees in music require competency in playing and composing on piano. This is to insure a greater understanding and appreciation of music (harmony, counterpoint, rhythm and melody) than is possible on any single line instrument such as the trumpet or cello.
Except for extensive use of chromatics, what is true for Celtic Harp is true for the piano; therefore, required piano skills are learned more easily.
The Celtic Harp is ideal for all ages. It is a peaceful and endearing instrument. The prices range from under $500 to about $5,000 depending on how extravagant you want to be. Contrary to common belief, there are no blisters or calluses to be had from playing for an hour or so per day.
Unlike most other instruments, Celtic Harp can provide for those who cherish their long fingernails. The metal strung (ancient) Celtic Harp, in fact, requires them and there is no sweeter instrument in the world.
When you start to play the harp, you will be playing for the simple joy of making music. As you learn play more and more complicated pieces your musical understanding will grow naturally. Very soon you will be playing for the enjoyment of all who hear you. You'll be a harper...
