Q&A for How to Tune a Lap Harp

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What note should each string be tuned to?

Community Answer

"Standard" tuning is the key of G, so starting from the bottom (longest string) the notes should be G, A, B, C, D, E, F Sharp.

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Question

What gauge wire is used to restring a harp?

Tyler MacDonald

Community Answer

String gauges can vary depending on the brand and harp, but typically .016.

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Question

How much do they cost?

Tyler MacDonald

Community Answer

Lap harps usually cost $50 to $100 in USD from online suppliers. They might be a bit more expensive in-store.

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Question

What octaves do I need to tune the notes to?

Tyler MacDonald

Community Answer

In G standard, you should have 2 octaves in the key of G. The lowest G should be the next G above middle C.

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Question

If I want to make a booklet of existing music to put under the instrument, can I print the order of the notes as long as I cite the writer and composer (if known) without copyright infringement?

Community Answer

If the music is in public domain, then it isn't subject to copyright. Music under copyright is a different fish. If you stick to fair use, and you don't sell your sheets or perform publicly, no one is going to come looking for you.

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Question

Where do I get replacement strings? Can I use guitar strings?

Tyler MacDonald

Community Answer

Online suppliers or local music shops. You should always use harps strings.

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Question

What do I use if I don't have a tuning key?

Tyler MacDonald

Community Answer

You should always use a tuning key. Using something not designed for tuning can damage the harp.

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Question

What do I do if I don't have a tuner?

Community Answer

You could use another piano or in-tune instrument.

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Question

I have a lap harp with one pin which will not stay tuned. What should I do?

Community Answer

You might be able to use a product that violinists use when their tuning pegs won't stay in place, namely peg drops. These will help you well.

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Question

Are there any really good, free tuning apps?

Community Answer

Yes, there are so many! There are also apps that come with a built-in metronome and other features. Just search for free tuner, or tuner metronome.

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Question

I acquired a very old lap harp with 31 strings. Its needs new strings but I'm having no luck finding a set of 31. Any advice?

Community Answer

Look into strings for concert or guitar zithers. They tend to have strings numbering in that range. Also look up mandolin harps, autoharps, and psalteries, see which one most closely resembles your harp. Failing that, there's a guide for choosing strings found on harpkit.com.

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Question

How do I do flats and sharps on a lap harp?

Community Answer

Flats and sharps have to be tuned into the harp, so unless you've tuned it to a scale with one or the other, you won't be able to play those notes.

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