Beginner’s guide to choosing your first harp

Why Choose the Harp?

The appeal of the harp

Choosing your first harp isn’t just picking an instrument—it’s opening a door to a sound world that feels rich, expressive and deeply moving. Imagine sitting beside it, plucking a string and hearing that resonant “whoosh”—it filled me with joy when I tried it the first time. The harp has this graceful, ethereal quality that can touch both players and listeners. Can you imagine how it feels to strum your first chord on a harp and sense the vibration in your hands?

What you can do with a harp (solo, ensemble, therapy, hobby)

One of the big things I love about the harp is its versatility.

You can:

Sit on your own and play sweet melodies for personal joy.
Join other musicians—an ensemble, even an orchestra eventually.
Use it in therapy or relaxation settings (its sound is soothing).
Travel with a smaller harp and bring music with you.
So your instrument choice should match how you plan to use it. Are you doing it for fun? For performance? For growth?

The importance of choosing the right harp from the start

Here’s a friendly but firm truth: getting a harp that doesn’t fit you can lead to frustration. It made me feel overwhelmed when I tried a harp that was too big and heavy for me to move—every practice session became a chore, not a joy. On the flip side, picking a harp that matches your goals, body, space and budget can spark excitement every day. So yes—spend a little time choosing wisely now, and your future self will thank you.

Know Your Goals Before You Buy

What kind of music do you want to play?

Let’s start with your why. What kind of harp music draws you in? Do you love folk ballads, catchy contemporary tunes, classical pieces, or gentle background music? The style you aim for helps decide the harp type. For instance, if you think “I want to do classical harp with wide range and full sound”, that might nudge you toward a larger instrument. But if you’re like “I just want to strum some folk tunes at home and feel relaxed”, a smaller lever harp might be perfect. The American Harp Society (AHS) emphasises that beginners should think about their goals because the kind of harp you choose will affect your future path.

Where will you play (home, concerts, travel)?

Next question: where will you be playing? In a cozy living room? At gigs? Do you need to move the harp in a car occasionally? If you foresee tons of transport, a lightweight harp is smart. If the harp will live mostly in one spot, maybe weight/size matter less. A beginner harp guide from K&M Music School mentions that portability and your setup matter a lot for adult learners.

Your physical situation (height, strength, transport)

Here’s something not always obvious: your body, your space, your strength—they matter. A tall harp might overwhelm you if you’re petite. A heavy harp might be a pain to carry if you’re doing it solo. For a beginner, size, weight and comfort matter. Some sources say if you’re small or the player is a child, choose a smaller harp.

Budget & commitment—are you testing the waters or going all in?

Before you spend a big chunk of money, ask: am I sure I want to commit, or do I just want to try it out? Renting might be a wise move if you’re unsure. One blog suggests that beginners rent first so you get to test the instrument and your commitment. Starting simple and affordable is fine—there’s no shame in it.

Types of Harps – Lever vs Pedal vs Other

Lever harps – what they are, pros & cons

Okay, let’s break down type. The lever harp (sometimes called Celtic harp) has levers on each string that you manually engage to alter pitch. According to Harp-School, lever harps are common for beginners—they’re more affordable, lighter, and easier to transport.
Pros:

More affordable than many pedal harps
Lighter weight, easier transport
Great for folk, contemporary, personal playing

Cons:

Changing keys is more manual (you flip the levers by hand)
Limited key versatility compared to pedal harp
If you want full orchestral classical range later, may feel constraining

Pedal harps – what they are, pros & cons

Then there’s the big league: the pedal harp (classical/concert harp). It has pedals at the base for each of the seven notes (C, D, E, F, G, A, B) allowing you to change key with your feet while playing. Harp-School outlines that these are large, heavy, more expensive, but full-range.
Pros:

Fully chromatic, every key, huge range
Rich, full sound—great for professional performance

Cons:

Very heavy, large, expensive
May be more than a beginner needs/wants at the start
Requires more investment, space, probably teacher guidance

Other harp types (lap harps, folk harps, travel harps)

And then you have smaller/folk/travel harps—lap harps, small lever harps, etc. These can be great if your budget is tight or your space is limited. According to Harp-School and other sources, a harp with 22–27 strings and levers can work for beginners just fine.

How to decide which type fits you best

So summarizing:

If you’re doing it for fun/hobby in a home setting → a smaller lever harp may be ideal.
If you want to later perform, join orchestras, or go professional → consider a pedal harp (maybe after some years).
If you’re uncertain or want portability → look at smaller folk/travel lever harps.
Also think about your budget and space. Don’t rush into the most expensive route unless you know.

Size, Strings, Weight & Sound – What to Look For

Size and portability – balancing space and usability

Size really matters for comfort and practicality. Harps range from small lap models to large concert sized. According to “How to Choose Your Harp” by Harp-School, lever harps might measure about 1.5–1.6 m tall (for floor models) and weigh 8–16 kg (approx) in some cases. Another guide notes that if you transport or carry often, consider lighter models under 15–20 lbs (~6.8–9 kg) for ease.
So check:

Will it fit in your practice space?
Can you lift/carry it safely?
Will you need to transport it in a car or up stairs?

Number of strings – range vs complexity

The number of strings affects how many notes/range you have. The AHS says beginner lever harps often have 24–36 strings, while pedal harps may have up to 47 strings. Harmony Harp says lever harps: 20-40 strings; pedal: 40-47 strings.
For a beginner: you want enough strings to feel versatile, but not so many that you’re overwhelmed. A 34-36 string lever harp is commonly recommended. One blog suggests choosing a harp “22 strings or more, and with levers, for more ease of playing and greater possibilities”.

Weight and transport concerns

Weight ties into size and number of strings. The heavier the harp, the trickier to move. Harp Journal gives tips on lifting and carrying to avoid injury. If you’ll be moving it, make sure you are comfortable doing so.

Sound quality and material – nylon vs gut vs wire, tone and clarity

Sound is obviously super important. According to Harp-School, the string material has a big effect: nylon strings are lighter tension, less sensitive to humidity, and good for beginners. Gut strings are more traditional, higher tension, more expensive upkeep. The Harp.com guide says listen for tone, volume, clarity of individual notes, and make sure no mechanical buzzes or rattles.
So when you test harps:

Listen to the tone—does it please you?
Test the clarity of each string and the balance across registers.
Check for unwanted noises (buzz, rattle).
If possible, hear the harp in the space you will play it in (your room or area).
It’s easy to pick something that looks good, but the sound is what will give you joy every day.

Sample specs and what beginners usually choose

Putting it together: A typical beginner friendly harp might be:

A lever harp, floor or small size
~34 strings, nylon upper register
Light enough to manage (under ~12 kg)
Levers on most commonly changed strings
Price in beginner range (we’ll talk budget next)
And ideally you test it in person if you can, or at least hear a reliable audio or video demonstration.

Quality, Build & Maintenance – Make a Smart Choice

Materials, craftsmanship, brand reputation

Just like a good car or piano, a harp is built with craftsmanship. Harp.com advises choosing a manufacturer with a solid track record of quality instruments — good materials, reliable mechanics (levers/pedals), solid soundboard, no mechanical faults. Similarly, Harp-School stresses knowing the luthier or maker, checking how the instrument has been kept, etc.
So when shopping, ask:

Who made this harp? Brand/model?
What materials (soundboard, wood, strings, levers)?
How old is the instrument (if used)?
Can I hear it and test it?
Are there any known faults or service history?
It’s tempting to go for a very cheap harp—but a low-quality harp can limit enjoyment and may cost more in repair/frustration later.

One Reddit user warned:

“If you’re serious about wanting to learn the harp stay away from this kind of harp, it’s a waste of money!”

Try before buying – sound test, checking for issues

Testing in person is ideal.

Some key things:

Play a range of strings (low to high) and listen for consistency.
Flip levers (in lever harp) or use pedals (in pedal harp) to ensure they work smoothly.
Check for structural issues: cracks in soundboard, loose parts, buzzing mechanical parts. Harp-School says: “Cracks in the soundboard or column: get professional advice.”
Ask if a teacher or experienced player can inspect with you (especially if used purchase). AHS suggests the same.
Walking in with a little checklist and your goals in hand will help you feel confident rather than stressed.

Rental vs buying: pros & cons

As I mentioned earlier—if you’re not 100% sure you’ll stick with it, renting is a smart move. Blogs suggest rental gives you time to get a feel for instrument, avoid big loss if you stop.
Pros of rental:

Lower initial cost
Try instrument before committing
May upgrade later

Cons of rental:

Monthly cost adds up
You may be limited in choice/model
Ultimately you might prefer owning

If you decide to buy: consider buying from a dealer who offers after-sale support or has good used market.

Maintenance, tuning, repair – what you should expect

Harp care is real.

Things to keep in mind:

Regular tuning is required; strings settle over time.
Humidity, temperature changes affect the instrument. Harp-School mentions that used harps must be evaluated carefully for how they were stored.
If you buy used, check for maintenance history.
Accessories (tuning hammer, electronic tuner) will be needed. Example: PoppyHarp guide says you’ll need a good tuner/hardware.
Proper posture and setup reduce risk of injury. The Harp Journal notes issues like sitting too low or lifting incorrectly.

So plan for the non-glam part: maintenance cost/time, transport care, safe storage.

Accessories & Practical Considerations

Tuning keys, electronic tuner, stand, case

Once you’ve got your harp, you’ll need some extras.

Here’s a simple list:

Tuning key or hammer (to adjust tuning pins)
Electronic tuner (or clip-on contact mic) for accuracy
Harp stand (if floor harp) or lap stand (if smaller model)
Transport case (especially if you move it)
Spare strings (optional but good to have)
Stool/chair suited to harp height

These accessories add to cost, so when budgeting don’t forget them.

Chair/stool, proper posture, setup space

Your comfort matters—seriously. Posture will affect how long you can play and whether you’ll avoid aches. As mentioned in Harp Journal: you should ensure your knees, hips, setup are correct; sitting too low can strain back.
Tips:

Use a chair of correct height (typically ~17″, adjustable for you).
Your harp should lean at a safe angle, not too far back.
Set up in a space where you have room for your hands, your body, the instrument.
If transport is involved, ensure you have safe method (cart, case) so you’re not injured.

Transport and storage tips

If you move the harp frequently:

Check whether your car/trunk can fit it.
Use padded case or transport trolley.
Avoid abrupt moves, heavy lifting without support.
Store in a stable environment: moderate humidity/temperature. Sudden changes can affect wood, strings, structure. Harp-School warns of used harps that were poorly stored.

Being practical now will save you headaches—and make practice feel fun, not stressful.

Budgeting & Where to Buy

Beginner harp price ranges

Let’s talk money (honestly). Beginner lever harps might cost in the range of a few thousand dollars (or equivalent depending on your location). For example, K&M Music School lists beginner lever harps from roughly “$500-$1,000” for very basic models, and mid-range around “$1,500-$2,000+”. Meanwhile, pedal harps start much higher (e.g., $2,000+ and substantial increase for higher quality).
In Bangladesh (or your local currency) you’ll need to think of import costs, shipping, taxes, warranty—so budget accordingly.

Why spending a bit more upfront can save grief later

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest harp you can find, keep this in mind:

A well-built harp will stay in tune better, require fewer repairs, give better sound.
If you buy a cheap harp you don’t like, you might stop playing and lose money/time.
Many harpists recommend buying a reputable brand even used rather than a very cheap unknown.

One Reddit user said:

“Even a used harp from a well-known brand will last you longer than any cheap ones you’ll buy online!”
So if your budget allows, aim for a good value instrument rather than the absolute bottom of the market.

New vs used vs rental – what to watch out for

New: You get warranty, pristine condition, full support—but higher cost.
Used: Can be great value—but you must inspect carefully (soundboard cracks, lever mechanics, string tension history). Harp-School and others caution used harp buyers to examine condition.
Rental: Least commitment, good for beginners, but monthly cost and you may not end up owning.

Questions to ask:

What is the brand, model, year?
What condition is it in? Has it been maintained?
Are levers/pedals in good working order?
Is storage/transport history known?
What are the return/up-grade conditions (if rental)?

Trusted sources and what questions to ask

When choosing where to buy:

Look for harp dealers with reputation, good reviews.
Ask for demo/play test.
Ask about warranty, service.
Ask about shipping/import/export if you’re buying internationally.
If buying used: ask for history, inspection by a harp technician or experienced player.

The AHS also recommends connecting with harp community for referrals.
And always try to hear and feel the harp before committing.

Getting Started & Growing with Your Harp

Finding a teacher, community, and resources

When you have your harp (or even before), it’s so helpful to connect with:

A good teacher (especially for posture, technique). Many beginners on Reddit say this is key.
A local harp chapter or community (the AHS suggests connecting locally/online).
Online resources, books, beginner pieces.

Having someone to bounce off, ask questions, and share joy with makes your journey much more fun.

Practicing habits to build joy and avoid frustration

Start small: 10-20 minutes regularly is better than one long slog. Many guides suggest building confidence gradually.
Focus on posture, hand position, comfort before speed or complexity.
Celebrate small milestones: learning a new piece, improving tone, adjusting levers smoothly.
Connect with your emotion: play something just because you love the sound. That emotional connection will keep you going.
Record yourself occasionally or play for others—it builds confidence and enjoyment.

How your harp choice might evolve as you progress

Your first harp might serve you for years—but you may eventually want a “next step” harp (larger range, more strings, richer tone). If you choose a beginner harp wisely, it can serve you well and then you upgrade later. Some sellers/rentals allow trade-in credits. Plan for that possibility. Consider: will your first choice limit you forever? Or will it give you enough room to grow?

What to do if you outgrow your first harp

If you outgrow it:

Sell or trade it (good instruments retain value).
Move to a higher string count, bigger size, richer sound.
Make sure your teacher/guild/community prepare you for the next level.

Outgrowing is a good thing; it means you’ve grown!

Summary – Your Harp-Choice Checklist

Quick checklist you can use when you’re harp-shopping

Here’s a friendly checklist:

I know why I want to play harp (style + use).
The harp size/weight works for my body, my transport, my space.
The type (lever vs pedal) matches my goals & budget.
Number of strings gives enough range but isn’t overwhelming.
I’ve heard the harp and it sounds good to me.
The build quality is solid, no vibrating parts, good brand or maker.
I’ve considered rental vs purchase and I’m comfortable with my budget.
I’ve planned for accessories (tuner, stand, case).
I have a teacher/community lined up (or will soon).
I know how I’ll store/transport it safely.
I’m excited to pick it up and play—and enjoy the process.

Final friendly encouragement

Well done—you’re asking the right questions, and that means you’re going to pick a harp that brings you joy, not frustration. Remember: this instrument is about music, emotion, connection. Try to pick something that makes your heart skip a beat when you hear it. The journey ahead will have its wobbles (tuning, technique, rhythm), but it will also have sparkly moments of wonder—so go for it, and let the harp become a friend.

Wrapping Up Your Harp Journey

So there you have it—your friendly, no-fluff guide to choosing your first harp. I hope this gives you clarity, excitement and some confidence as you step into the world of harp music. Remember: the right harp for you is the one that fits your body, your space, your budget and your musical dreams. It doesn’t have to be perfect—but it should feel right.

Imagine yourself plucking your first melody, the strings shimmering, your heart light—because you chose it well, because you’re ready. So take your time, try instruments, ask questions, listen to your intuition—and when you place your fingers on those strings, you’ll know.

Here’s to your first (and many future) harp-filled moments!

Please read more about the best harp.

FAQs

What size harp should a complete beginner buy?

A good size for a beginner is often a lever harp with around 34 strings (or 30-36 strings) and manageable weight so you can easily handle it and practice without struggle. Space, transport, and your body’s comfort matter.

Is it better to rent a harp rather than buy one right away?

Yes—if you’re uncertain about how much you’ll commit, renting is a great way to test the waters. It gives you flexibility, and you can feel whether the harp-life is for you before making a larger investment.

What’s the difference between lever and pedal harps, and which should I choose?

In simple terms: lever harps use hand levers to change pitch and are lighter/cheaper and great for many styles; pedal harps use foot pedals, offer full chromatic range and are heavier/expensive and suited for more advanced or classical use. Choose based on your goals, budget and physical capacity.

What should I listen for when testing a harp?

Pay attention to tone (does it delight you?), balance across registers (low, mid, high), clarity of notes (no buzzing/rattling), smoothness of levers/pedals, and whether the harp feels comfortable to you in terms of reach and posture.

How much should I budget for my first good beginner harp (including accessories)?

While it depends on region and brand, expect to spend more than the bare minimum: for a decent beginner lever harp + accessories (stand, tuner, case) you might be looking at a few thousand in your local currency. Don’t forget shipping/import, maintenance and accessories. Always leave some room in your budget.