What age is good to begin learning?

There is no age requirement for adults to learn an instrument! Any age is appropriate to start learning harp, even if you have no musical background. For children, Kristan recommends being at least age 7. 

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How long are lessons?

Kristan's lessons are designed to be efficient, helping students learn the harp quicker than average. Her goal is to teach students to become their own teacher, enabling them to learn efficient practicing, learn any music they wish, teach them to create their own arrangements of their favourite music, and maintain proper technique. She offers 30-minute lessons which are structured to cover all necessary material in a focused timeframe. Lessons run for as long as the student wishes to study. Typically, students can expect to develop a strong foundation within 2 to 3 years of regular lessons and practice. Lessons are only on a month-by-month commitment, so they may study for as long or short as they like!

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How often are lessons? Do you offer biweekly or one-time lessons?

Kristan offers weekly lessons to beginners, and once-in-a-while or one-time lessons to intermediate and advanced players - she does not offer biweekly lessons to beginners. Weekly lessons are for the benefit of the student to progress well, for motivation to study, and to help with goals. Most importantly, weekly lessons are beneficial to ensure the technique is being addressed weekly to avoid injury from incorrect positioning and that repertoire is practiced correctly to avoid backtracking in their study. Kristan offers once-in-a-while or one-time lessons to players wanting supplementary lessons, such as a student with established technique preparing for an audition, competition, performance, exam, wants to extend their repertoire, or learn the basics of electric harp. Students booking occasional lessons are expected to come with a plan of what they’d like to workshop. 

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What type of instrument do you recommend?

It's recommended that beginners start on a harp of at least 27-34 strings with levers. It's fine to begin with a lever-less harp, but students tend to outgrow them quickly within a few months of lessons. Lyon & Healy and Salvi are reputable harp brands. Kristan personally recommends the Salvi Mia, or similar. Renting is recommended for the first few months of lessons. Kristan is more than happy to help her students find a good long-term instrument.

Harp rentals in Canada - Long & McQuade: link (contact your local store)

Harp rentals in the contiguous U.S. - Lyon & Healy Harps: link

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What platform do you use for online lessons?

Kristan uses Zoom to teach lessons. No need to create an account, as personalized links are sent to each student. She also uses Google Drive to create a unique shared folder for each student, where lesson notes, homework, sheet music, and other learning materials are uploaded.

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What do I need for online lessons?

1. Lever or pedal harp (minimum 27 strings. 34 strings is ideal for long-term)

2. Phone/tablet/computer with camera (computer preferred for audio quality - no need for any advanced microphone or video setup, but bonus if you do!)

3. Reliable internet (min. 25 Mbps download / 10 Mbps upload)

4. Firm padded bench (no swivel/recline/wheels; adjustable preferred)

5. Music stand (recommendation: RAT Stands The Scherzo Stand)

6. Sheet music for lessons (All learning materials are provided with the exception of one book or any fun songs the students wishes to study)

7. Metronome (recommendation: Seiko SQ50-V Quartz Metronome)

8. Tuner (recommendation: Peterson Strobe tuner phone app)

9. Tuning key

10. Pencil & eraser

11. Short nails

12. Spare set of strings (not required, but highly recommended. Depending on string type, humidity in your home, and usage, strings break occasionally, especially during seasonal changes)

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Can I meet you before committing to lessons?

Yes of course! Before booking your first lesson, there will be a complimentary meet-and-greet for those interested in booking weekly lessons: a short meeting over Zoom to get to know each other, talk about your musical goals, how lessons are run, camera setup with your harp, and answer any questions you may have. Students must have their harp in their possession before the first meeting.