Harps in St. Augustine!
The famous Harpsicles and Sharpsicles from William
Rees Harps are now available in the Nation’s
Oldest City.
These 26-string harps are perfect for
beginners, travelers, and anyone who wants to enjoy
the “small
harp experience.” Both models are distinguished
by careful craftsmanship and affordability with prices
beginning at $295.00 for the basic Harpsicle.
Just getting started? Try the HarpStart package
which includes a self-teaching book and DVD, chromatic
tuner and 30-minute orientation lesson. HarpWays
will also carry a small stock of accessories and
music for lap harps.
Additionally, HarpWays Studio will be a local
representative for Rick Rubarth’s Merlin Harp.
This fully-levered 35-string harp is a marvel of
engineering and sound with a warm, strong voice.
For more information call 1-800-863-3613 or
write to maryjane@harpways.com
Private Harp Lessons
In addition to performing, Mary Jane shares her
love of the harp and its music by offering private
harp lessons to adults. She will develop
a course of study to help individuals achieve their
musical dreams, whatever their prior musical experience
may be.
No one is ever too old to enjoy making music. And
the harp rewards its students with melodious sounds
from the start. Studying music sharpens the
mind and soothes the spirit. It's also fun!
Your first lesson is a free, no-obligation introductory
meeting. Your musical goals, interests, and
prior musical background will be the focus, so that
Mary Jane can better tailor a program for you - and
a hands-on introduction to the harp will be included.
Here are answers to some questions you
might have:
What is the lever harp?
The lever harp is the descendant of the harps of Ireland
and Scotland. These harps vary in size from ones small
enough to hold on your lap to floor harps with a range
of five octaves. They use a system of levers
at the top of the strings to raise the pitch in half-step
increments. Lighter in weight and less expensive
than the large orchestral pedal harps, they are ideal
for beginners. Their versatility is recognized by an increasing number
of harpists who play only the lever harp, finding it offers opportunities in
jazz and sacred music beyond its historic role in Celtic and folk music. Is
it a "real" harp? You bet it is!
Where is the studio?
Mary Jane's studio is located in the historic
district of St. Augustine, Florida, the Nation's
Oldest City.
Where do I get a harp?
Mary Jane will work with you to locate the right
harp, taking into consideration your goals and
finances. Many students rent a harp for the first
several months while they explore their aptitude
and interest and many dealers allow the rental
to apply to purchase. Rental rates range from $50
to $65 a month. Students do need a harp at home
for practice. However, they will not need to bring
their harps to lessons because harps are available
for use in the studio.
Don't harps cost lots
of money?
Harps are individually produced instruments. However,
new technology has lowered the price for good beginner
instruments, so that cost is less of an obstacle.
HarpWays Studios sells a line of affordable lap
harps. Floor harps with full sets of levers begin
around $2,500. This is far less than the orchestral
pedal harps that begin at $11,000.
Is the harp very difficult
to learn?
All new skills require some work - think of sports. At
the same time, the harp has survived thousands
of years because people love to play it. While
the harp takes effort, its beauty is accessible
from the start. Simple pieces sound lovely. The
key to musical success is careful instruction in
the beginning and a commitment by the student to
daily practice, even if only for 20 or 30 minutes. Weekly
lessons will ensure that you learn proper hand
positions and the basic techniques that enable
your music to grow.
What will lessons cost?
The fee for private lessons is $35 for a 45-minute
lesson, with each month’s lessons payable
at the beginning of the month. Weekly lessons
are recommended for those just starting out.
When can I start?
To find out more about harps and harp lessons,
call
1-800-863-3613 or write to maryjane@harpways.com
For
up-to-date appearance and CD info please visit: www.mjballou.com
- Download Printable Flyer (99kb) 
Ancient City Harp - Songs of St. Augustine
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