How to Find Harp Players

It's difficult enough to find good musicians, let alone novelty musicians like harp players. It's even harder to know what to look for, where to look, and how much to pay a harp player. This article will help you make a more informed decision when searching for and hiring a harp player.

Things You'll Need

• Phone
• Computer
• Internet Connection

Instructions

1. More often than not, the Internet will be the quickest and most efficient resource for finding a harp player. Search for social networking sites, like Gigmasters.com, that cater solely to musicians.The majority of musician networking sites will have directories divided up by city, state, and instrument. Or, search for "harpists" on the general social networking sites like Facebook or MySpace, or just do a general web search for "harpists." This will make the job of finding the right harpist a lot easier.

2. Call around to local harp instructors, and ask for recommendations on talented harpists they have taught. You can even ask the instructors themselves if they work for hire. Instructors often have insight as to the local pay scale for currently working harpists, and they are often a wellspring of knowledge and information.

3. Schedule an audition. The best way to verify a harp player's talent and skill level is to watch and/or hear him play in person. Once you have found a harp player that you are considering for hire, ask her for a demo CD or a link to a website or a MySpace page showcasing mp3's of her work. The best case scenario is for you to actually see him play. Ask her if they have any performances scheduled in the near future. Or, ask if he would be willing to let you sit in on a practice session.

Tips & Warnings

• Educate yourself on what harp sounds like. The harp has a specifically delicate sound and tone that is soft and angelic. Make sure that you are aware of that so you can gauge if a harp player is a good fit for your event.

• Know ahead of time the price range for harpists in your region so you are better prepared when speaking to harp players as you contact them.

References

• Booking Harpists
• Hiring a Harpist