lessons

How long does a harp lesson last?

Harp lessons are approximately 30-60 minutes long and occur once a week. Students are given practice items between lessons.

Where do harp lessons occur?

All harp lessons are taught at her school - Calusio Creativity Center? See map for location.  Sorry, she does not travel to students' homes for harp lessons.

How much do harp lessons cost?

Contact Melissa Calusio at Calusio Creativity Center for currently tuition pricing.

What if I do not own a harp?

Owning a harp is very nice, but not necessary to begin lessons. Students without their own harp are allowed to practice using the school's harp while at the school during the week. Melissa has a harp practice room available. There is a minimal practice fee involved and students must reserve there practice times in advance.

Can I rent a harp before I buy one?

You can rent small harps, however, there are not many harp rental businesses around. Melissa does not rent harps. Best ideal is to search the internet for harp rentals. Melissa does not endorse any particular harp rental businesses.

At what age can students start a harp lesson?

I suggest children wait taking lessons till they become five or six. Usually their hands are too small and weak to pluck strings and produce good tones. Until then, they can take piano lessons or learn basic musical knowledge to prepare for the harp.

Is it hard to learn to play the harp?

NO, Like any instrument, it does take time and practice to play the harp, however due to the beautiful sounds, it is a very easy for beginners to sound good play basic songs.

Does a previous musical background help?

YES, but a previous background is not a pre-requisite for playing harp. The best instrument is the piano, however any musical background does help.

Am I too old to learn the harp?

NO, its never too late to learn to play the harp or any instrument.

Do in have to learn how to read music?

YES. You should have some basic music reading abilities before starting harp lessons so you can concentrate on harp playing techniques and not on music reading during your lessons This is the primary reason for a previous musical background. Reading music is important for playing the harp.

Do I have to learn to tune a harp?

YES, eventually. Beginners shouldn't worry too much about tuning a harp a first, however all harps need to be tuned quite often and harp students should learn to tune a harp at some point. Learning to tune a harp should be covered in harp lessons. If you feel that your pitch is poor, there several electronic tuners available that allow you can easily learn to tune your harp.

Do I have to learn to replace broken harp strings?

YES, eventually, and all harp strings due break. Strings are highly susceptible to changes in humidity and temperature and all harpist should learn to replace there own broken strings. Replacing broken harp strings is covered during harp lessons.

Can I have long fingernails?

No. You can't play the harp if you grow long nails. All harpists must pluck strings with their finger tips and long nails will prevent this. You must have short nails all the time.

I am an adult. Is it too late for me to start harp lessons?

Absolutely not!  It's never too late to start. 

Q: When is a good time for a child to start harp lessons?

At the time of personal motivation or parental discretion and availability of a qualified harp teacher.  Melissa can help make that decision during the first couple of lessons.

Q: What is a good harp to begin lessons with?

Depending upon commitment level and economic factors, either a rental instrument or the highest quality harp affordable. Wisest investments are made with some experience and the assistance of trusted professionals.

Q: Should you take piano lessons prior to taking harp lessons?

Piano background is helpful but not necessary.