The Best Online Stores for Buying Harps and Accessories

Introduction

Finding the right harp and accessories can be a challenge, especially for beginners or seasoned players looking to upgrade. Fortunately, several reputable online stores specialize in harps, offering a wide range of instruments, strings, cases, and other essential accessories. This guide highlights the best online retailers, their specialties, and what to consider when making a purchase.

Best Online Stores for Harps

1. Sylvia Woods Harp Center

A trusted name in the harp community, Sylvia Woods Harp Center offers a vast selection of lever harps, pedal harps, and electric harps. They also provide detailed descriptions, sound samples, and video demonstrations for many models.

• Key Features:
  • Wide variety of harps (Celtic, folk, concert grand)
  • Custom harp-building services
  • Extensive library of harp sheet music
• Best For: Beginners to professionals seeking high-quality instruments and learning resources.

2. The Harp Connection

Specializing in lever harps, The Harp Connection is known for its personalized customer service and harp rentals. They carry brands like Dusty Strings and Camac, with options for all skill levels.

• Key Features:
  • Rental-to-own programs
  • Beginner harp packages (includes tuner, book, and case)
  • Harp maintenance workshops
• Best For: New harpists wanting affordable entry-level options.

3. Lyon & Healy (Salvi Harps)

As a premier manufacturer, Lyon & Healy sells concert pedal harps directly through their website. Salvi Harps, their sister brand, also offers elegant lever and pedal harps.

• Key Features:
  • Professional-grade pedal harps
  • Custom finishes and designs
  • International shipping for high-end models
• Best For: Advanced players and professionals investing in concert-quality instruments.

4. Dusty Strings

Dusty Strings crafts durable lever harps with a focus on ergonomics and rich tone. Their online store includes harps, replacement parts, and accessories.

• Key Features:
  • Lightweight travel harps (e.g., Ravenna 26)
  • Carbon fiber options for humidity resistance
  • Clear string spacing for easier playability
• Best For: Traveling musicians and those needing sturdy, portable harps.

5. Harp Center of New England

This store offers a mix of new and used harps, including rare vintage models. They also provide harp restoration services.

• Key Features:
  • Pre-owned harp sales (inspected and refurbished)
  • Harp pickup systems for amplification
  • Specialty tools for harp maintenance
• Best For: Budget-conscious buyers and collectors.

Best Online Stores for Harp Accessories

1. Harp Column Music

A one-stop shop for harpists, Harp Column Music sells strings, tuning keys, cases, and sheet music. They also publish a magazine with industry insights.

• Key Features:
  • Nylon, gut, and carbon fiber strings
  • Wheeled flight cases for pedal harps
  • Digital downloads of harp compositions
• Best For: Players needing reliable strings and transport solutions.

2. Virginia Harp Center

This retailer stocks a curated selection of accessories, including stands, benches, and dampers. They also offer harp insurance consultations.

• Key Features:
  • Adjustable harp benches with back support
  • Humidity control products for wooden harps
  • Custom string sets by gauge
• Best For: Those needing ergonomic support and climate care.

3. Blevins Harp Strings

Specializing in strings, Blevins offers high-quality options for all harp types, including rare wire-wound bass strings.

• Key Features:
  • Dyed strings for easier note identification
  • Sterling silver and phosphor bronze options
  • Bulk discounts for frequent string changers
• Best For: Performers who need durable, high-tension strings.

What to Look for When Buying a Harp or Accessories

For Harps:

• Type: Lever harps are ideal for beginners; pedal harps suit advanced players.
• Size: Consider weight and height—floor harps vary from 22 to 47 strings.
• Material: Solid wood offers richer sound; carbon fiber is durable for travel.
• Soundboard Quality: Spruce or cedar soundboards produce warm tones.

For Accessories:

• Strings: Match material (nylon, gut, or wire) to your harp’s requirements.
• Cases: Hard cases protect against travel damage; padded gig bags are lighter.
• Maintenance Tools: Tuning keys, hygrometers, and cleaning cloths prolong harp life.

Conclusion

Purchasing a harp or accessories online can be convenient if you choose a reputable retailer. Whether you need a beginner lever harp, professional pedal harp, or replacement strings, the stores listed above offer quality products and expert guidance. Always check return policies, warranties, and customer reviews before buying. Happy harping!