Rate & Location FAQs
Why are harpists so expensive?
Many people seem to have "sticker shock" when they talk to harpists about performance rates. Pianists, for instance, charges much less for events because they are never asked to bring their piano to each location. Other musicians have much more portable instruments as compared to a six foot, 90-pound harp that the harpists themselves move and transport - and their prices reflect it. The reasons harpists charge more are pragmatic:
1. The actual cost of a harp ... these days a minimum entry price of US$18,000 (excluding tax) for a pedal harp. Average prices are $22,000 - $40,000.
2. The cost to maintain a harp ... with 47 individual strings, 7 mechanical pedals and rods, and a mostly wood body, this is a very maintenance-heavy instrument.
3. The cost to insure a harp ... instrument, liability and auto insurance on a large vehicle to move the harp in are just a few requirments for all professional harpists.
4. The cost of accessories ... special dollies, covers, tuners, amplification equipment, music and an extremely large verhicle are just a few of the necessities.
In addition, for every one hour perfomed, there are additional hours that go into marketing, talking to potential clients, prep and practice time, travel and moving the instrument to each event, set-up and tuning and tearing everything back down again. Harpists must also be in top physical form to move and play their instrument.
Why are your rates higher than average?
Alycia takes the time to work with her clients and create divine, original music that is evocative and highly appropriate for your needs. Her performance presence and gifts are highly unique and hands down, gives a performance that is simply unforgettable. Would you prefer to drive a Honda or Range Rover? Only you can decide ...
What geographic areas do you perform in? How does that affect your rate?
Alycia loves to perform and welcomes the opportunity to do so anywhere in the world. Alycia's standard rates apply to the Phoenix and Los Angeles metro areas only. For performance in other locations, applicable travel costs, equipment rental and insurance costs and travel per diems are billed.Performance rates for other locations are available by query.
Is it worth it?
Of course! It's a rare and highly unique opportunity to hear divine, magical music played live and in person. Want to hear some comments? Click here.
Private Lessons FAQs
What are the minimum requirements to take lessons?
Children must be at least 7 years old and must begin on a lever harp due to their physical size in relation to the size of the different harps. (For children younger than 7, piano is an excellent pre-cursor to learning harp.) Adults have the option to begin on either a lever or pedal harp. All students must rent or own their own instruments. Lever harps must have a minimum of 36 strings in order to accomodate classical technique and music. Ability to read music is not required.
How do I find a harp to rent or purchase?
At this time, Alycia cannot assist in the research or acquisition of a harp to rent or purchase. For info on the Net, please see:
http://www.harpmall.com for harps, accessories and teacher lists
http://www.lyonhealy.com for Lyon & Healy and Salvi pedal and lever harps
http://www.harp.com for music, strings, recordings, books and accessories, operated in partnership with Lyon & Healy West
http://www.harpcenter.com for Sylvia Woods Harp Center
How do you teach?
Emphasis is on proper classical technique, musicality, visualization, and physical well being while learning classical, celtic and other traditional music. Improvisation is introduced once basic skills are mastered. Traditional Celtic, Mexican and South American styles are not taught and require a master teacher of those genres. Everyone is unique and therefore deserves a unique harp education based on individual interest, goals and desires.
Where & when?
Currently lessons are only offered at Alycia's studio in Mesa, Arizona. Lessons may be taken weekly or every other week. 30-minute lessons are generally recommended for young children. 60-minute lessons are recommended for older children and adults. Lesson schedules may vary from week to week based on teacher or student schedules, holidays, vacations, etc.
How do I pay? Do you offer discounts?
Cash or check payment is due at the end of each lesson. A 10% discount is given for monthly rates paid in advance at the beginning of each month. Additional discounts are given for prepaid quarterly rates.
Do you teach advanced-level students?
At this time, Alycia offers coaching for advanced students through master classes for groups or individuals versus on-going individual lessons.
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