How to Change a Nylon or Gut String on a Harp

You’re the proud owner of a new harp. Congratulations! Not only is a beautiful instrument, it’s fun to play. Until a string breaks. Changing a nylon or gut string on a harp can be a challenge but, with a little patience and concentration, you can replace that broken string. It takes 10 minutes to make. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Single sheet of facial tissue
• Harp
• Replacement nylon or gut string
• Needle-nose pliers
• Tuning key
• Electronic tuner

Changing a Nylon or Gut String on a Harp

1. Tear the facial tissue into 4 pieces. Fold one section in half 4 times, making a small rectangle of tissue. Set aside.

2. Insert the string through the topside of the harp’s soundboard. Reach into one of the holes in the back of the soundboard and grab the string.

3. Make a slip-knot at the end of the string protruding from the back of the soundboard. Put folded tissue into the slip knot and gently tighten until the knot is secured around tissue.

4. Grab the string protruding from the topside of the harp's soundboard and feed through the hole in the tuning pin on the left side of the harp. Hold the end of the string above the tuning pin with your thumb and forefinger and with your third or ring finger, gently pull the string below the tuning away from the harp, to create a little slack.

5. Insert the tuning key on the tuning pin right side of the harp and begin to
   turn in a clockwise direction. This will cause the string to overlap around itself and then onto the peg, locking it into place.

6. Release the string and continue to turn the key until the tension is semi-tight. Slip the string into the groove on the stationery pin.

7. Tighten the string until it is wrapped several times around the peg, making sure it does not overlap and each wind moves toward the harp. Using an electronic tuner, continue to tighten the string until it has reached correct pitch. Cut off excess with needle-nosed pliers, leaving about ½ inch of string.

Tips & Warnings

• Harp strings are not universal. Be sure that you replace with the correct size string.
• It takes several weeks for a harp string to be stretched sufficiently to maintain pitch. At first a newly replace string will have to be tightened and tuned frequently, but will gradually hold its pitch.
• While the string is off, it is a good time to clean around the tuning pegs and lever mechanisms. Use a soft cloth or brush-no chemicals--to clean away dust and debris.
• Some strings will have enough left over for a future change. Replace it in the container it came in and store away from light and heat.