Ahh the harp – possibly the most celestial of instruments and a guaranteed way of creating an elegant and magical feel to your event. The heavenly sound of this astonishingly beautiful instrument make it an extremely popular choice for both wedding ceremonies and sophisticated events.
If you’d like to hire a professional harpist and have a few questions before you go ahead and book then you’re in the right place. From costs to space and repertoire to timings, we’ve answered the most common queries we get asked about these exceptional musicians.
Looking To Hire A Harpist?
When Can A Harpist Play?
Harpists masterfully create a spellbinding musical backdrop as you walk down the aisle and sign the register, providing a fairytale atmosphere for the most special moment of your life. The gentle sound of the harp blends into the background perfectly while your guests chat away at your drinks reception or wedding breakfast.
A harpist is also an extremely popular choice for high-class corporate events. The delicate sound is ideal for a black tie dinner or champagne reception and helps everyone relax and unwind. Your event will ooze sophistication!
How Long Will A Harpist Play For?
Harpists will normally offer either two forty-five or one hour sets within a certain time frame. This is ideal for weddings as the first hour is usually used during your wedding ceremony, with the harpist performing as your guests arrive, as you walk down the aisle, while you sign the register and then as you walk back up the aisle. The second set is then played during your drinks reception or wedding breakfast. Some harpists will charge extra if they are needed to stay longer throughout the day and many offer additional sets.
At corporate events, the timings tend to be more straightforward, with the sets performed with a short break in-between.
What Type Of Music Will A Harpist Play?
Harpists are extremely versatile with their repertoire and are able to perform a mixture of classical and modern songs. There’s something very special about hearing contemporary songs played on a harp. They feel sparkly, new and refreshing! Our talented musicians often perform a selection of popular pop, rock, soul, folk and even Bollywood songs. Check out each harpist’s repertoire on their profile to see what type of music to expect from them.
Can I Request A Special Song?
You may have chosen a specific song that you’d like to walk down the aisle to and are wondering if your harpist will learn it for you. The good news is – they definitely will! Some will offer to do this for free, but if they have to buy the sheet music or create their own arrangement, this might incur a small charge to cover their time and the cost of the music.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Harpist?
Depending on their popularity, experience and how long you’d like them to play for, the cost of hiring a harpist can vary.
In general, a harpist is likely to charge around £250 for an hour’s performance and will charge by the hour for each additional hour. For the most experienced performers, a 3-hour booking is likely to cost £500 or more.
When Will The Harpist Arrive?
Your harpist should arrive around one hour prior to their performance time. This will give them time to set up and get themselves acquainted with your venue.
How Much Space Does A Harpist Need?
Harps are pretty big! You harpist will need enough room for them and their harp to sit comfortably with enough elbow room. Approximately 3x3m should normally be enough space for them to perform comfortably.
Bear in mind that it can be difficult to manoeuvre a harp through a venue if there are lots of stairs of obstacles to avoid. Speak to your venue about ensuring that there is an easy route through to the performance area and that there is a lift available if you need the harpist to play upstairs.
How Far In Advance Should I Book A Harpist?
As soon as possible! Classical musicians can get booked up quickly, especially during the peak wedding season. We’d recommend booking at least a year in advance, and before that if you’re able to.
What Do I Need To Provide For The Harpist?
Harpists will need a chair or stool to sit on while they perform. If they perform amplified, they will need access to a power source. If your harpist is at your venue for longer than four hours or over a meal time, we politely request that a hot meal is provided for them. Nothing fancy, just some fuel to keep them going!
Can A Harpist Perform Outside?
Yes! However, it’s important to make sure that they are protected from the elements. Rain and strong sunlight will damage their instruments so having them perform under a marquee is ideal. They will also need a hard and flat surface to play on.
What Will The Harpist Wear?
You can get a good idea of the type of attire a harpist is likely to wear by looking at the photos on their profile. Generally they will wear smart clothing but will normally be happy to wear something specific to fit in with your theme.
How Do I Book A Harpist?
Have a browse through our amazing harpists’ profiles and when you’ve chosen who you’d like to hire, fill in the enquiry form on their profile or give us a ring on 0800 53 000 35. Our expert advisers are on hand every day to help you and can’t wait to hear from you!
