Harp

Caring for your instrument

How should I store my harp?
Natural materials are very susceptible to changes in environment and fluctuations in humidity and temperature can affect the structure and performance of your harp. Keep your harp in a quiet spot (preferably a corner) away from household traffic, draughts and sources of heat such radiators and direct daylight.

Help to maintain a healthy moisture level with radiator hangers or bowls of water (a moisture meter is a good investment). A good range of relative humidity for harps and other instruments is around 40-50%.

How should I transport my harp?
Ideally your harp should be transported using heavy duty covers to protect it against knocks and bashes. When packing a lever harp, try to ensure that all the levers are in the down position and that they are facing upwards/outwards with the tuning pins taking the load. The same applies to the orientation of the mechanism of a concert harp.

When lifting a harp try to pick it up directly off the floor rather than dragging it along.

How do I keep my harp clean?
Most harps are finished with durable laquer that should protect it. Finger marks and dust can be removed with a soft lint-free cloth. Use a soft make-up brush to keep the semi-tone mechanism and soundboard free from dust.

Areas which receive a lot of wear such as the top sides of the sound box can sometimes benefit from a light layer of wax so that the varnish last longer. We would also recommend that you avoid wearing jewelry such as rings and bracelets when playing the harp as this can often knock the harp and cause damage.