A Guide to Hiring the Best Harpist - 4 minutes read


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Inform any potential harpists of your expectations and any specific requirements. A satisfying musical experience can only be guaranteed if your needs can be addressed.


"By all means, have a conversation with the potential harpist to see if you click with them and think you'll like working with them. Find out if they have performed at your venue, how many weddings and events they have played for, and if they have any necessary insurance. Especially if you wish to use a particular favourite, inquire about their repertoire." Margaret Sanzo Sneddon offers advice.


Ask Questions


As an event organizer, you must ask questions before hiring a harpist. Such as:

·       When are they on stage?

·       Does the music the performer specializes in suit your taste?

·       Can this artist supply the necessary amplification if the event calls for it?

·       How far is the artist prepared to travel?

·       Do they accept orders?

·       Does their music capture the mood or feeling you're going for?

·       Do you believe working with this individual will be enjoyable for you?

·       Can they offer references or reviews from previous customers?


FAQs


1.     Can a harpist go outside the venue and play the instrument?

Absolutely, they can. All a harpist needs is enough protection from the elements and a level surface to play on.


2.  How much space will a harpist require to perform?

Although 3 by 5 meters is ideal, more space is often preferable so a harpist is not confined.


3.    What will a harpist require from the event organizers?

All of the harpist's instruments will be brought with them. The only thing to keep in mind is that they will need a socket nearby if they are working with a PA system. In order to move their harp, they will also need to park close to the door. Where they are seated to study their sheet music should ideally have good ambient lighting.


4.     Can a harpist support a guest performer?

The harp may make a really nice musical accompaniment for a singer. The event organizers would need to locate the song's sheet music in the singer's appropriate key.


5.    Can a harpist move from one location to another?

The harp can be transported a short distance despite being a heavy object.


How Long Will A Harpist Play At Any Event?


To get the most out of your booking, it's crucial to schedule your entertainment appropriately because planning a schedule for any event is frequently challenging. The more private sections of the day, like the music for special occasions or music in the background to create the right atmosphere for your event—such during a banquet or cocktail reception—are ideally suited for harpists. The majority of harpists will give you a quote for their time on-site, choosing to ignore arrival and set-up, and that they will play as much or as little somewhere in this time period as required in order. A harpist will need to be booked for at least 2-3 hours, if not longer, and this will necessitate short breaks and perhaps even food.


Make good choices


The location you have picked and whether it can accommodate a harp are two extremely important factors to take into account. A few suggestions by Lara Garner from San Francisco are also included here.  The average weight of a harp is about 80 pounds, making movement challenging. The harp is a very large and heavy instrument. Lara advises clients to have a clear understanding of the load-in, including how many stairs there are and whether an elevator is available. Outdoor activities must always have covering available.  Harps are extremely delicate, priceless instruments that cannot withstand sunlight or dampness. To ensure a seamless set-up and fantastic performance, it is quite beneficial when the customer is informed of all the venue's specifications.


Mariea Antoinette is a Groundbreaking, National recording artist and the world’s premier soulful, Harpist. She has performed for the Los Angeles Southeast Symphony Orchestra as Principle harpist at the Walt Disney Concert Hall and for many public and private events including for First Lady of the United States Michelle Obama and President Barack Obama.