Should Your Child Learn the Harp? A Guide for School Students
The harp is a beautiful and rewarding instrument for children and school students to learn. While it’s often seen as something rare or specialised, learning the harp is more accessible than ever in Australia, and it offers many musical and practical benefits for young players.
If you’re considering the harp for your child, here’s what to know.
Why the Harp Is a Great Instrument for School Students
One of the biggest advantages of learning the harp is that it sounds beautiful from the very beginning. Unlike some orchestral instruments that can take months to produce a pleasant tone, harp students often create a satisfying sound within their first few weeks of lessons. This early success helps build confidence and enjoyment.
The harp is also a lifelong instrument. Students don’t need to be part of an orchestra to continue playing, as the harp works wonderfully as a solo instrument. This means your child can keep playing whether they join ensembles, take exams, or simply enjoy music at home.
Harpists are also in demand. Because fewer people learn the harp compared to other instruments, students who continue often find many opportunities in school programs, community groups, and later performance settings.
A Versatile Instrument Across Many Styles
While the harp is commonly associated with classical music, it suits a wide range of musical styles. Harps can be used in:
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Classical and orchestral music
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Pop and contemporary music
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Jazz and blues
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Folk and modern arrangements
This versatility allows students to explore different genres as their musical interests develop.
Accessibility of Harps in Australia
In the past, harps were difficult to source and expensive to access. Today, this has changed significantly. There are now clear options for both harp hire and harp purchase in Australia, making it easier for families to get started without needing to commit immediately to ownership.
Harps Perth | Buy or Hire Lever Harps – WA Music Co
This flexibility is especially helpful for younger students who are still discovering their musical preferences.
Practical Considerations for Student Harps
Transporting a Harp
A common concern is whether a harp can be transported easily. Most student harps will fit in the back of a car with the levers facing upward, either in the boot or with the back seats folded down. While transport may not be necessary for every family, most students will need to take their harp to lessons at least occasionally.
It’s also a good idea to encourage students, with guidance, to practise getting the harp in and out of its transport cover. These practical skills help build confidence and independence.
Choosing the Right Size and Range
For school students, it’s generally recommended to choose a harp with 34 strings or more and full levers. This provides enough musical range for learning and repertoire and ensures the instrument will continue to suit the student as they progress.
A harp of this size can truly last a lifetime, supporting both beginner and advanced playing.
String Types for Student Harps
String choice depends on sound preference, the student’s comfort, and teacher recommendations. Today, synthetic gut or nylon strings are often preferred for student harps because they are more durable and stable than natural gut, making them well suited to regular practice and transport.
Final Thoughts
Learning the harp offers students a unique musical experience that combines beauty, versatility, and practicality. With modern access to harp hire and purchase options, and instruments designed to suit students, the harp is an achievable and inspiring choice for school-aged learners.
If you’d like help choosing the right harp for your child, visiting a specialist music store and seeing instruments in person can make the decision much easier.