The harp is undoubtedly one of the most elegant—and expensive—musical instruments. For beginners or young children, the lever harp is often the preferred choice due to its more affordable price and easier maintenance. Recently, we've seen a growing interest in lap harps. So, in this post, we'll explore the key differences and important factors to consider when choosing between a lever harp and a lap harp, to help you find the instrument that suits you best.
1. Size and Weight of the Harp
Many people assume that harps are too large and heavy to play comfortably, especially for children or smaller players. As a result, the lap harp, which rests on the lap and is more compact, may seem like the better option. However, lap harps are very lightweight and cannot stand on their own, making them unstable and more difficult to control during performance. These are typically designed for adults who want a portable option for casual or outdoor playing.
In contrast, lever harps are designed with stability in mind. Though not overly large, their weight is concentrated at the base, keeping them balanced and steady while playing. The harp’s structure ensures that it doesn’t sway from side to side, making it easier and more comfortable to play—especially for children and beginners. For that reason, a lever harp is usually a better starting point.
2. Number of Strings
When choosing a harp in Hong Kong, one of the most frequently asked questions is: “How many strings should I get?” Most lever harps have 34 strings, which is a standard range. However, the ideal string count depends on your playing goals.
If you're purchasing a harp for music therapy, worship, or outreach performances, a smaller lap harp with around 25–27 strings may be sufficient. But if your goal includes exams or performing a broader range of classical or contemporary pieces, then a 34-string lever harp is the minimum recommended. Larger models with 38 or even 40 strings are also available and can be chosen based on your height, budget, and musical ambition.
3. String Tension Types
You may notice that some harp models offer different string types. The most common options are light Tension and high Tension strings.
Light Tension Strings (e.g., Silkgut, Lever Nylon) are traditionally used in Celtic or folk music. They produce a brighter, lighter tone and are easier to press, making them more suitable for quick, melodic passages. However, they are more prone to buzzing and don’t provide as much finger resistance.
High Tension Strings (e.g., Lever Gut, Pedal Gut) are closer to what is used on concert or pedal harps. They offer a richer, more powerful sound and prepare players for classical music performance. However, they require more finger strength and may initially cause finger fatigue or blisters, especially for beginners.
For instance, the Salvi Mia comes in both Silkgut (light tension) and Lever Gut (high tension) versions. Beginners should consider their long-term goals: if they plan to progress to a pedal harp in the future, starting with high tension strings may provide a smoother transition.
4. Number of Levers
Levers are used to raise each string by a half-step, allowing the harp to play in different keys without retuning. Some models come with only a few levers, limiting the range of music you can play. Harps with fewer levers typically default to the key of C major. Changing to another key requires manually retuning the strings, which may be inconvenient—especially for parents who are not familiar with tuning harps.
We strongly recommend choosing a harp that includes a full set of levers, as it greatly expands your musical possibilities and makes learning much more efficient.
5. Brand Matters
When investing in a harp, we recommend choosing reputable brands such as Lyon & Healy or Salvi. These manufacturers have a long-standing tradition of quality craftsmanship and continue to innovate in harp design. Their instruments are widely recognized and supported by harp technicians around the world. If you ever need to move your harp overseas, parts and servicing will be much easier to arrange with these trusted brands.
Final Thoughts
There’s no single “right” harp for everyone. We encourage you to keep an open mind, explore different models and brands, and take the time to try them in person. Each harp has its own feel, tone, and character—and the experience of playing them is the best guide in finding the one that’s right for you.
Happy harp hunting—we hope you find your perfect match!