Lessons
I have been teaching harp for 26 years and focus on a non-classical technique more suited to the unique qualities of lever (Celtic) and early harps.
I teach online, and lessons are $50 for a one hour session. I prefer weekly lessons to allow the reinforcement of good techniques (and nipping any bad habits in the bud) but this can be tailored to suit your circumstances.
While the ability to read music is helpful, it is not a requirement before beginning lessons, you can learn as you go.
“Roger is a patient and intuitive harp teacher who gently guides you to not only learn the notes and fingering, but to find the connection in playing from your heart and soul. He brings warmth and compassion to his lessons and if you are having a bad day, he’ll play his harp for you to remind you why you fell in love with the harp in the first place. I always leave my lesson uplifted and inspired.”
The only real necessity is your own harp!
I can help you find an instrument from a number of sources including local luthiers and stores that sell many different models from a number of very reputable makers. The most important thing is finding the instrument that best suits your hopes and goals.
“It was such a gift to work with Roger Helfrick when I began learning to play the Celtic harp years ago. Of course, he is an incredible musician…but it is his clarity and sensitivity as a harp teacher that truly made the biggest difference. He kept learning the technique and mechanics playful and new…but most importantly, he encouraged me to experiment, improvise and keeping the place of discovery and the magic of the instrument at the forefront. Those rich experiences allowed me to make the instrument my own, and made it possible for me to build a new career with the Celtic harp at the forefront of my work. If you have dreamt of learning to play the Celtic harp, Roger is the harp teacher who can help you make that dream come true.”
