Chapter 1 - First Steps at the Harp

This week’s post is the first chapter of my theory textbook, beginning with the fundamentals of the harp’s structure, layout, and notation. As mentioned before, this is a project that is a large-scale work in progress, and I am posting this to document the development and journey of creating this resource. 

I first completed this chapter in early April, and have since added on additional clarifications about the pedals and terminology we use at the instrument. It is so eye-opening to work from the very beginning elements of an instrument, and makes one aware of all of the aspects that go into play within the structure of music and its mediums.

“The harp is one of the oldest instruments in the world, and the harp as we know it today is a complex and flexible instrument in comparison to its predecessors from even two hundred years ago. Now, we have a modern instrument with mechanical developments that allow us to play in practically every key, make rapid key changes, and apply accidentals, all on the same strings. We will be covering all of these ideas soon, but first, we must delve into the foundational elements of harmony. Let us dive into the instrument with the first steps to understanding the harp.”

Click here to access and read Chapter 1 - First Steps at the Harp

Many thanks!

- Juan