How to Change a Harp String

Even for seasoned professionals, changing a harp string is a difficult task. But you can do it if you're meticulous. Here are the steps you need to get that new harp string in place in time for your next practice or performance.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Take out the broken string and all of its pieces. Make sure you remove and save the bridge pin.

2. Slide the end of the new harp string into the bridge hole corresponding to the string that you need to replace.

3. Tie a harp knot around the bridge pin by making two loops in the end of the harp string closest to the bridge hole. Then slide the bridge pin and the end of one of the loops half way through the other loop. Pull tight around the bridge pin and loop end. Pull the knot firmly against the bridge.

4. Pull the new string up to the tuning pin and keep enough slack to enable you to wrap the string at least three times around the tuning peg. Push the string around the mechanism to raise the string a half step.

5. Turn the tuning peg so that the hole is pointing downward. If you have a Zither pin, make extra turns out so that you don't bottom out the tuning peg when you install the string.

6. Wrap the new string on the tuning peg. Make sure the string wraps around the tuning peg behind the hole in the tuning peg. If you wrap the string in front of the hole, it could slip off the end of the tuning peg and injure you.

Tips & Warnings

• Make the loops as close to the bridge hole end of the string as possible.
• Take the broken harp string to a music store and have them measure it with calipers to make sure you order the correct replacement. If the harp string is wrapped, measure the core diameter as well as the wrapped diameter.
• When you replace a nylon wrapped string be careful not to damage the nylon wrapping.