Things You'll Need:
- Harp
- Phone book
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Step 1
Look in the phone book to see if there are any listings for harp teachers. Call any local music stores. Call the local symphony and see if they have a harpist; sometimes professional harpists also take on students or may know of harp teachers in the area.
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Step 2
Call the music departments of local universities and ask if they have a harp program. If so, talk with them about what is involved in their program and what level of training you can expect. This is important if your ultimate goal is to teach harp, as you will need to be trained beyond the person who just wants to play the harp for their own pleasure.
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Step 3
Make a list of questions to ask before calling the teachers. Beyond prices for lessons, you should ask about their personal experience with the harp and how long they have been teaching. Find out their policies and expectations from students.
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Step 4
Tell the potential teacher what your musical experience is. This will help them determine what level of lessons to start you with. Also tell them what type harp you have and make sure they have experience in the type of harp you own; some harp teachers know how to play a lever or pedal harp, but not a wire or double or triple-strung harp.
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Step 5
Meet the teacher in person and-if it is possible-sit in on a lesson with one of her other students. Talk about why you want to learn to play the harp and what you want to accomplish with the instrument, whether playing for your personal pleasure, or for church or to earn money playing at weddings or even teaching. Spend some time talking with the teacher and try to determine if her personality jives with yours; student/teacher relationship has a huge affect on how well you learn.
