How Much Do Harps Cost? - MusicalHow.Com

Mastering the harp requires dedication and endless practice hours, making having your own instrument essential. However, the significant investment needed often leaves many wondering about the cost.

The exotic and complex characteristics of the harp often lead to high prices, particularly in comparison to other musical instruments.

Contents show Key Takeaways: Understanding Harp Costs Benefits of Owning Your Harp The Cost of Harps: All You Need to Know 1) Price Range & Cost of Beginner Harps 2) Price Range & Cost of Intermediate Harps 3) Price Range & Cost of Professional Harps Factors That Influence the Prices of Harps Type of Harp Size Quality of Materials Components & Mechanisms Number of Strings

Key Takeaways: Understanding Harp Costs

• Harps are an investment in your musical journey, varying greatly in price based on type, size, and craftsmanship.
• Price ranges significantly across skill levels: beginner harps average at $300, intermediate ones between $500 and $1500, and professional harps can soar from $50,000 to $150,000.
• Benefits of owning a harp include unlimited practice time, cost savings over rentals, and faster learning curves.
• Several factors influence harp prices, such as the type of harp (lever or pedal), size, quality of materials, components and mechanisms, and the number of strings.
• Choosing the right harp depends on your skill level, personal preferences, and specific needs, balancing affordability with features.

Don’t worry if you think all harps are insanely costly. You can definitely find one that fits your budget. Harps come in a wide range of prices, and we’re here to guide you through it.

Discover everything about harp costs and what influences their prices in today’s market. We’ll also highlight the key benefits of owning a harp, giving you a better understanding and helping you make an informed decision.

Benefits of Owning Your Harp

You might still be undecided about buying a harp for various reasons. However, owning a harp comes with multiple benefits. Let’s look at the key advantages of purchasing a harp:

• You’d have an easily accessible harp whenever you need to practice or work on an assignment. 

• You don’t have to worry about renting a harp.

• It is more cost-effective as you save on rental charges in the long run.

• You don’t have to wait in line for a harp in practice rooms or classrooms. 

• Finally, having your harp helps you master the techniques of playing the harp faster. In other words, it shortens your learning curves!

Understanding the benefits of having a harp, let’s dive into how much this instrument might set you back.

The Cost of Harps: All You Need to Know

Before diving into costs, remember that purchasing a harp is an investment in your musical adventure. This perspective will help you stay positive, no matter the prices mentioned here. Thankfully, there are harps priced within reach for everyone.

To give you a clearer idea of harp costs, I’ll simplify them into three main categories and their respective prices. This breakdown will make it easier for you to grasp the different price points.

• Beginner Harps: Average $300

• Intermediate Harps: Between $500 to $1500

• Professional Harps: $50,000 to $150,000

So, if you’re buying a harp that matches your skill level or planning an upgrade, you’ll know exactly where to find what you need.

1) Price Range & Cost of Beginner Harps

Most beginner harps are diatonic, featuring a single scale with seven to 22 strings, ideal for newcomers.

Most folks hesitate to spend a lot on a beginner harp. Luckily, manufacturers make sure beginner harps are affordable. You can get your own starting at just $100!

Yet, they might not always be so affordable. Some starter harps can reach prices up to $300.

If you’re looking for beginner harps akin to classical models, expect to pay around $1000. However, a standard beginner’s harp makes a great option for those just starting out without needing to spend as much.

Top picks feature the 8-string Lily Harp by Roosebeck and the 12-string harp by Royal, both offering exceptional quality.

2) Price Range & Cost of Intermediate Harps

Some beginner harps at higher prices are perfect for those at an intermediate level. You’ll likely need to shell out between $500 and $1500 for one of these quality instruments.

Intermediate harps, especially Celtic models, typically cost between $1500 to over $5000, with the average price standing at about $3000.

If you’re aiming to purchase simplified harps, budget for a similar price range. Examples include Roosevelt’s Celtic harp with 36 strings and their lever-operated classical floor-size harp with 38 strings.

If you’re eyeing an intermediate pedal harp, prepare to invest more, with prices starting at $10,000. Thankfully, these come equipped with the standard 47 strings.

3) Price Range & Cost of Professional Harps

Buying these harps often costs as much as a house, which means typically only the most dedicated musicians invest in them.

Buying a professional harp can be quite expensive, with prices ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 or more. However, you’re investing in outstanding craftsmanship, superior sound quality, and lasting durability.

Most music stores don’t carry professional harps because of their high cost, meaning you’ll often need to place a custom order to get one.

Factors That Influence the Prices of Harps

You’re likely wondering about the big price differences in harp categories. Let me explain: these variations come from multiple key factors. Stick around, and I’ll shed light on what drives these costs.

Type of Harp

There are mainly two varieties of harps, distinguished by their control mechanisms: lever and pedal harps.

Pedal harps have seven built-in pedals, allowing each string to increase by two semitones, making them fully chromatic. In contrast, lever harps have levers that raise their strings by only one semitone and are diatonic.

Pedal harps often come with a higher price tag compared to lever harps, which are more budget-friendly and perfect for beginners. Experienced harpists generally favor pedal harps for their capabilities.

The cost of a harp can change a lot, based on the kind you choose.

Size

Size significantly impacts harp pricing, with larger harps and those with more strings generally being more expensive than smaller models.

A concert harp costs more than a floor-size lever harp because it’s bigger.

Interestingly, two harps of different sizes can have the same number of strings, reflecting the unique approach each designer or manufacturer takes in blending aesthetics, design, and sound.

Generally, a bigger harp tends to be pricier.

Quality of Materials

The quality of the materials used in a harp’s frame directly impacts its price. High-quality wood makes a harp more expensive.

Quality wood doesn’t just improve the harp’s look; it significantly enhances its sound and longevity, explaining the higher price tag.

The high cost of professional harps is partly due to the expert selection and craftsmanship involved in choosing the best quality wood.

Components & Mechanisms

Harps are more than just the strings you see; their intricate parts play a crucial role in creating sound. This holds especially true for pedal and lever harps, which have unique mechanisms to alter sound pitches.

Creating harps involves the work and time of experienced professionals, which certainly isn’t inexpensive. This is why certain harps are pricier than others, reflecting the total resources invested in their production.

Number of Strings

The number of strings on a harp significantly influences its cost. Harps can range from having just eight strings to up to 47 standard strings.

Generally, a harp with more strings tends to be pricier.

Experts usually go for harps with more strings to explore a wider range of music. They’re willing to invest in their instrument. But if you’re starting out, a harp with fewer strings is better for you. It’s cheaper, smaller, and easier to carry around.