Below I have provided answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the harp, harp music for weddings & parties, and how to book me as your harpist.
If you have a question that you do not see answered on these pages, or would like to request a quote, please feel free to contact me.
If you have a question that you do not see answered on these pages, or would like to request a quote, please feel free to contact me.
FAQ's
How did you decide on how much to charge?
One thing to keep in mind when hiring a musician is that you are seeking the service of a highly skilled professional rather than buying a product. My rates are comparable to many similarly – trained professional harpists and musicians in the Vancouver area (Vancouver Harpist Guild) and The Harp Column Magazine’s national survey. The cost of providing quality harp performance goes well beyond the actual performance and those costs are taken into account when determining rates as well. Costs such as advertising, instrument insurance, dress dry cleaning, and instrument maintenance expenses are substantial and must be taken into account. My fee for weddings includes all email correspondence, telephone consultations, time to prepare all the musical selections, rehearsing, organizing my music notebooks to accommodate your requests, packing up my harp, loading in into my car, unloading at your event location, setting – up, tuning, and packing up again. All of this can add up to numerous hours, most weddings require an average 8 – 10 hours of my time from the first point of contact to the end of your ceremony. In additional to all of these details, I have been a professional harpist for over 25 years, have played in over 1000+ events. I also regularly attend workshops so I am consonantly fresh & creative with new ideas.
How long have you been performing on the harp?
I have been playing professionally for over 25+ years.
How many wedding have you played for?
I have played the harp at more than 2,000+ weddings.
If we decide to hire you, what happens next?
After receiving the quote, you will then receive a confirmation letter confirming your total along with the booking information packet link.
Do you do in-person consultations?
Everything you will need should be available through my website and the information packet I send out so in-person consultations may not be necessary. If you do wish to meet with me in my home, please contact me to discuss the options.
How long will you play for?
I will play for however long it takes for your wedding ceremony to be completed. I want everyone to feel relaxed and I will adjust to your circumstances. Please note that if you elect me to also play at your cocktail hour, there is an extra charge.
When and how do we pay you?
I require the remaining balance on your contract to be paid seven days prior to your ceremony or event. You can pay online, through your invoice, in person, or make other arrangements with me.
Can you play for the cocktail hour after our wedding ceremony?
I may be able to play afterwards for your cocktail hour, but under the condition that it is being held on the same property as your ceremony. If you want me to pack up and move my harp to a new venue, that is considered a separate job which would require a second Performance Agreement.
How loud is the harp? Will it be heard at my event? Will it be too loud for conversations to be heard?
The harp is generally loud enough to carry in most homes, churches, and public spaces. The harp on its own is never overpowering, which makes it perfect for background music.
Can you be amplified?
Yes! I can be amplified with an in house system or a personal battery powered amp if desired.
Do you play outside? What if it rains or is threatening weather?
Yes, I often play outside. I do require share and or a tent to protect my instrument.
I have a space on the Performance Agreement for the client to describe the location so that I can accommodate it. I also appreciate speaking with the client about outdoor locations so that I have a good understanding about what to expect. I do reserve the right to not play outside in the winter or if there is threatening weather, or if the circumstances threaten the safety of my harp or me. All clients with outdoor wedding locations must have an inclement weather plan.
Do you need someone to meet you when you arrive and to provide cues?
Yes. You will need to designate someone on your wedding day who will answer their cell phone in case of any problems and to meet me when I arrive. I will need to be shown where the harp is to be set up, an update on the schedule, and then to cue me when the family and bridal party is ready to process in.
The venue charges for parking, will you pay for that?
I do not pay for parking and ask the client to reimburse or validate my parking.
How far in advance should I book?
You should book as far in advance as possible, especially if you are getting married on a Saturday. I have been booked 2 years in advanced at times. Please submit a inquiry on the book page.
Do you take credit cards? What method of payment do you take?
Absolutely, I do take credit cards. I also accept debit, cash & e transfer.
Do you give cash discounts?
Absolutely! I give a 10 % discount if you pay cash.
Do you take last minute bookings if I run into a pinch?
Yes, I do. I will even prepare the music for you so you can relax and have piece of mind.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes, I ask for a $150 non-refundable deposit that you send in along with your signed Performance Agreement.
How much space do you need?
I need an area of about 2m x 3m. That should be flat.
Do you need anything?
I come prepared with everything. I bring a harp bench, music stand & or course my harp. I also don't require any power as I use an ipad and a battery powered amp. Water is always appreciated.
I don't know anything about music, can you prepare the music for my ceremony? How much extra is this service?
Yes, I can pick the music for your ceremony. With years of experience I can provide the most suitable music choices for your ceremony. This service is provided FREE of charge and I am most happy to do it.
Do you want to stay for dinner at the reception? Do you trade food for work?
Usually I am not able to stay for dinner at your reception, and frequently I am tired from the traveling, performing, and hauling my harp around. On occasion I have stayed around briefly for something to eat if I am invited.
I do not trade food for work.
To what other occasions does the harp lend itself?
The harp is a beautiful addition for cocktail hours, intimate dinners, bridal showers, afternoon teas, and receptions.
Do you take special requests?
Yes I do. Please keep in mind the not every piece of music is suitable to be played on the harp. You can not get a harp to sound like a orchestra or band, it just doesn't sound full. If you don't provide me with the music there will be an extra charge to find, rehearse and buy the music if it isn't in my collection. All specials requests should be done at the initial booking so I have ample rehearsal time.
Can you accompany my (best friend/sister-in-law/mother/etc.) who wants to sing or perform a special song?
There may be additional charge for me to accompany your friend or family member singing or performing a special song in your wedding. It depends on what the piece is and how much preparation it requires. If I have played the song before then usually there is no problem. I always advise clients to be confident in the musical ability of their performer before they decide to put them up in front of an audience. “Cousin Frank” may have had a few violin lessons, but that doesn’t always mean he is ready to perform. I also reserve the right to decline to accompany someone if the piece does not transfer well to the harp. I am happy to discuss your specific requests and then try to work something out.
Do you attend wedding rehearsals?
No, I usually do not attend wedding rehearsals. If your Wedding Worksheet is filled out properly there should be no problems with the music at your ceremony. I can adjust based upon the circumstances, but I strongly suggest you advise everyone in your wedding party to walk slowly down the aisle and have them listen to a sample from my website of the song they will be coming in with so that they won’t start out too early. If you require me to attend the rehearsal then there
will be an additional charge.
How much time should I book for my Wedding ceremony?
The duration of most wedding ceremonies is approximately 1 - 1.5 hours. This includes guest arrival and seating, ceremony, recessional, and guest departure. Your wedding officiator should be able to give you a better estimate of your specific ceremony time schedule. If you are planning a wedding reception right after the ceremony and would like harp music throughout, a 2 to 2.5 hour booking may be suitable. Therefore, if you're planning to walk down the isle at 2 pm, your music booking should start from 1:30 pm on wards. I usually arrive at a wedding shortly before my booking for setting and tuning up.
What happens if there an accident or unforeseen event on my wedding date?
I ask all clients to have a recording of comparable music ready (via iPod, iTunes, etc.) in the case of any unforeseen event on your wedding date. Always expect the unexpected! Accidents do happen, especially on the freeway, so I strongly suggest you have a “Plan B” for the music. Be assured that I do not miss weddings.
What happens if I need to cancel or change my wedding date due to COVID-19?
If you have to change your date due to COVID -19, your deposit will be transferred to the new date of your event.
What are the pedals on your harp for?
The seven pedals each affect the tuning of all strings of one pitch-class. The pedals, from left to right, are D, C, B on the left side and E, F, G, A on the right. Each pedal attaches to a rod or cable in the column of the harp, which connects to a mechanism in the neck.
Are harps expensive to maintain?
Yes it can be. To get my harp regulated it can cost approximately $500 US+. Then there are the cost of strings. They range from $10 - $65US per string depending on the octave. Did I mention I had 47 strings! It can add up for sure.
What happens when you break a string?
I don't need to call anyone. I can fix all broken strings myself. They can break at anytime. When I perform. I always bring extra strings.
Does someone tune your harp like the piano?
No! I tune my harp myself. The harp is the diva of all instruments. It needs to be tuned frequently during the week and everytime I move it to a different location. It also requires regular regulation to fix and buzzes & pitch issues with the mechanisms. A special harp technician will come to Vancouver to regulate harps periodically.
What kind of harp do you play? What is the difference?
I play two kinds of harps. A Aoyama Orpheus 47 string full size concert grand pedal harp and a 33 string Bresch Celtic lever folk harp. Scroll down to see pictures. My harp plus accessories, such as my amplifier, is worth approximately $30,000 US.
Do you give harp lesson?
Yes! I teach both harp & piano. More information can be found here www.mkharp.com
==============================================================================
You’re looking for harp music at your event or wedding. If your harpist asks you, “Would you like a pedal harp or a Celtic harp?” and you respond, “I have no idea what that means,” then read on!
Pedal Harp (Also known as concert harp or classical harp)The full size concert harp is a larger instrument. It is commonly found in Symphonies and Orchestras.
Celtic Harp (Also known as folk harp or lever harp)
Scroll down to see pictures... if you are curious.
How did you decide on how much to charge?
One thing to keep in mind when hiring a musician is that you are seeking the service of a highly skilled professional rather than buying a product. My rates are comparable to many similarly – trained professional harpists and musicians in the Vancouver area (Vancouver Harpist Guild) and The Harp Column Magazine’s national survey. The cost of providing quality harp performance goes well beyond the actual performance and those costs are taken into account when determining rates as well. Costs such as advertising, instrument insurance, dress dry cleaning, and instrument maintenance expenses are substantial and must be taken into account. My fee for weddings includes all email correspondence, telephone consultations, time to prepare all the musical selections, rehearsing, organizing my music notebooks to accommodate your requests, packing up my harp, loading in into my car, unloading at your event location, setting – up, tuning, and packing up again. All of this can add up to numerous hours, most weddings require an average 8 – 10 hours of my time from the first point of contact to the end of your ceremony. In additional to all of these details, I have been a professional harpist for over 25 years, have played in over 1000+ events. I also regularly attend workshops so I am consonantly fresh & creative with new ideas.
How long have you been performing on the harp?
I have been playing professionally for over 25+ years.
How many wedding have you played for?
I have played the harp at more than 2,000+ weddings.
If we decide to hire you, what happens next?
After receiving the quote, you will then receive a confirmation letter confirming your total along with the booking information packet link.
Do you do in-person consultations?
Everything you will need should be available through my website and the information packet I send out so in-person consultations may not be necessary. If you do wish to meet with me in my home, please contact me to discuss the options.
How long will you play for?
I will play for however long it takes for your wedding ceremony to be completed. I want everyone to feel relaxed and I will adjust to your circumstances. Please note that if you elect me to also play at your cocktail hour, there is an extra charge.
When and how do we pay you?
I require the remaining balance on your contract to be paid seven days prior to your ceremony or event. You can pay online, through your invoice, in person, or make other arrangements with me.
Can you play for the cocktail hour after our wedding ceremony?
I may be able to play afterwards for your cocktail hour, but under the condition that it is being held on the same property as your ceremony. If you want me to pack up and move my harp to a new venue, that is considered a separate job which would require a second Performance Agreement.
How loud is the harp? Will it be heard at my event? Will it be too loud for conversations to be heard?
The harp is generally loud enough to carry in most homes, churches, and public spaces. The harp on its own is never overpowering, which makes it perfect for background music.
Can you be amplified?
Yes! I can be amplified with an in house system or a personal battery powered amp if desired.
Do you play outside? What if it rains or is threatening weather?
Yes, I often play outside. I do require share and or a tent to protect my instrument.
I have a space on the Performance Agreement for the client to describe the location so that I can accommodate it. I also appreciate speaking with the client about outdoor locations so that I have a good understanding about what to expect. I do reserve the right to not play outside in the winter or if there is threatening weather, or if the circumstances threaten the safety of my harp or me. All clients with outdoor wedding locations must have an inclement weather plan.
Do you need someone to meet you when you arrive and to provide cues?
Yes. You will need to designate someone on your wedding day who will answer their cell phone in case of any problems and to meet me when I arrive. I will need to be shown where the harp is to be set up, an update on the schedule, and then to cue me when the family and bridal party is ready to process in.
The venue charges for parking, will you pay for that?
I do not pay for parking and ask the client to reimburse or validate my parking.
How far in advance should I book?
You should book as far in advance as possible, especially if you are getting married on a Saturday. I have been booked 2 years in advanced at times. Please submit a inquiry on the book page.
Do you take credit cards? What method of payment do you take?
Absolutely, I do take credit cards. I also accept debit, cash & e transfer.
Do you give cash discounts?
Absolutely! I give a 10 % discount if you pay cash.
Do you take last minute bookings if I run into a pinch?
Yes, I do. I will even prepare the music for you so you can relax and have piece of mind.
Do you require a deposit?
Yes, I ask for a $150 non-refundable deposit that you send in along with your signed Performance Agreement.
How much space do you need?
I need an area of about 2m x 3m. That should be flat.
Do you need anything?
I come prepared with everything. I bring a harp bench, music stand & or course my harp. I also don't require any power as I use an ipad and a battery powered amp. Water is always appreciated.
I don't know anything about music, can you prepare the music for my ceremony? How much extra is this service?
Yes, I can pick the music for your ceremony. With years of experience I can provide the most suitable music choices for your ceremony. This service is provided FREE of charge and I am most happy to do it.
Do you want to stay for dinner at the reception? Do you trade food for work?
Usually I am not able to stay for dinner at your reception, and frequently I am tired from the traveling, performing, and hauling my harp around. On occasion I have stayed around briefly for something to eat if I am invited.
I do not trade food for work.
To what other occasions does the harp lend itself?
The harp is a beautiful addition for cocktail hours, intimate dinners, bridal showers, afternoon teas, and receptions.
Do you take special requests?
Yes I do. Please keep in mind the not every piece of music is suitable to be played on the harp. You can not get a harp to sound like a orchestra or band, it just doesn't sound full. If you don't provide me with the music there will be an extra charge to find, rehearse and buy the music if it isn't in my collection. All specials requests should be done at the initial booking so I have ample rehearsal time.
Can you accompany my (best friend/sister-in-law/mother/etc.) who wants to sing or perform a special song?
There may be additional charge for me to accompany your friend or family member singing or performing a special song in your wedding. It depends on what the piece is and how much preparation it requires. If I have played the song before then usually there is no problem. I always advise clients to be confident in the musical ability of their performer before they decide to put them up in front of an audience. “Cousin Frank” may have had a few violin lessons, but that doesn’t always mean he is ready to perform. I also reserve the right to decline to accompany someone if the piece does not transfer well to the harp. I am happy to discuss your specific requests and then try to work something out.
Do you attend wedding rehearsals?
No, I usually do not attend wedding rehearsals. If your Wedding Worksheet is filled out properly there should be no problems with the music at your ceremony. I can adjust based upon the circumstances, but I strongly suggest you advise everyone in your wedding party to walk slowly down the aisle and have them listen to a sample from my website of the song they will be coming in with so that they won’t start out too early. If you require me to attend the rehearsal then there
will be an additional charge.
How much time should I book for my Wedding ceremony?
The duration of most wedding ceremonies is approximately 1 - 1.5 hours. This includes guest arrival and seating, ceremony, recessional, and guest departure. Your wedding officiator should be able to give you a better estimate of your specific ceremony time schedule. If you are planning a wedding reception right after the ceremony and would like harp music throughout, a 2 to 2.5 hour booking may be suitable. Therefore, if you're planning to walk down the isle at 2 pm, your music booking should start from 1:30 pm on wards. I usually arrive at a wedding shortly before my booking for setting and tuning up.
What happens if there an accident or unforeseen event on my wedding date?
I ask all clients to have a recording of comparable music ready (via iPod, iTunes, etc.) in the case of any unforeseen event on your wedding date. Always expect the unexpected! Accidents do happen, especially on the freeway, so I strongly suggest you have a “Plan B” for the music. Be assured that I do not miss weddings.
What happens if I need to cancel or change my wedding date due to COVID-19?
If you have to change your date due to COVID -19, your deposit will be transferred to the new date of your event.
What are the pedals on your harp for?
The seven pedals each affect the tuning of all strings of one pitch-class. The pedals, from left to right, are D, C, B on the left side and E, F, G, A on the right. Each pedal attaches to a rod or cable in the column of the harp, which connects to a mechanism in the neck.
Are harps expensive to maintain?
Yes it can be. To get my harp regulated it can cost approximately $500 US+. Then there are the cost of strings. They range from $10 - $65US per string depending on the octave. Did I mention I had 47 strings! It can add up for sure.
What happens when you break a string?
I don't need to call anyone. I can fix all broken strings myself. They can break at anytime. When I perform. I always bring extra strings.
Does someone tune your harp like the piano?
No! I tune my harp myself. The harp is the diva of all instruments. It needs to be tuned frequently during the week and everytime I move it to a different location. It also requires regular regulation to fix and buzzes & pitch issues with the mechanisms. A special harp technician will come to Vancouver to regulate harps periodically.
What kind of harp do you play? What is the difference?
I play two kinds of harps. A Aoyama Orpheus 47 string full size concert grand pedal harp and a 33 string Bresch Celtic lever folk harp. Scroll down to see pictures. My harp plus accessories, such as my amplifier, is worth approximately $30,000 US.
Do you give harp lesson?
Yes! I teach both harp & piano. More information can be found here www.mkharp.com
==============================================================================
You’re looking for harp music at your event or wedding. If your harpist asks you, “Would you like a pedal harp or a Celtic harp?” and you respond, “I have no idea what that means,” then read on!
Pedal Harp (Also known as concert harp or classical harp)The full size concert harp is a larger instrument. It is commonly found in Symphonies and Orchestras.
- Appearance: A pedal harp is usually about six feet tall (bigger than a Celtic harp) and is a great option if you want to make a really elegant, sophisticated, and classy statement
- Logistics: It is a challenge to move a pedal harp up or down any number of steps or across uneven surfaces. My harp weights 90 pounds and I use a cart to transport it. Pedal harps are very sensitive to temperature changes and humidity.
- Value: $30K – $126KUS
- Sound: A pedal harp is often louder than a lever harp, with a rich, full tone. An amp can by used to augment the volume.
- Music: Because many pop or classical pieces have key changes or accidentals (sharps or flats not included in the key signature) in the middle of the piece, a pedal harp might be your only option if you are asking for specific pop or classical pieces. The are more music options for the pedal harp.
Celtic Harp (Also known as folk harp or lever harp)
- Appearance: A lever harp is smaller than a pedal harp. Mine is five feet tall with natural wood. It’s a great option if you want to evoke a whimsical or enchanted atmosphere.
- Logistics: A lever harp is fairly easy to move (mine weighs 26 pounds) and is a wonderful option for outdoor weddings or events. It is less sensitive to temperature changes than the pedal harp.
- Value: $500 – $5K
- Sound: A lever harp has a medium volume (louder than most people expect, but not as loud as most pedal harps) and has a bright, magical tone. An amp can by used to augment the volume.
- Music: A lever harp can play any music with minimal key changes or accidentals. This includes some classical pieces (such as Canon in D by Pachelbel) but in general is well suited to Celtic pieces, Renaissance music, and folk songs.
Scroll down to see pictures... if you are curious.
