Are you or your child interested in learning the harp,
but have no instrument?
$50 per month harp hire package includes:
-
Harp
- Harp bag
- Tuning wrench
- Electronic tuner - if required
- Teach yourself book
Learn to play the harp without having to buy an expensive instrument. This gives you an opportunity to learn to play music while costing you a lot less!
Harps can be hired for short or long term for $50 per month.
Based in Point Chevalier, Auckland, New Zealand.
Have a go at playing the harp!
About the Harps There are 22 string, 23 string, 26 string, 27 string, 29 string and 34 string harps for hire. Most are made in Aotearoa New Zealand
The larger instruments will fit in a station wagon, or in some cases across the back seat of your car.
The 22 - 26 string ones are smaller and easy to transport.
Listen to a 26 string hire harp
Most of the harps are fully levered and some have levers on C, F and B strings. Others have no levers and are tuned to the key of C.
This is like having all the white keys on the piano.
The Teach Yourself book that will come with your harp is perfect for harps with or without levers as all the music is written in the key of C.
Harps are to be picked up from Point Chevalier, Auckland.
Harps For Sale
If you are looking to buy a harp you may find a second hand one to be a good option for your budget. Check with Robyn and see if there are currently any harps for sale.
Robyn offers beginner harp lessons in Point Chevalier, Auckland - Monday to Friday. There is a harp in the studio that you can play so there is no need for you to bring your hire harp.
This means you can fit your lessons in without having to go home after work or school to get your harp.
Online lessons are available and are very useful. Online lessons with skype or zoom are very popular - learn music in the comfort of your own home. Online learning is better for our environment as it means less traveling, you use less petrol and spend less time in traffic.
Harp lessons for children
Is your child wanting to play the harp? Have a look at this info specifically for children's lessons.
Harp lessons for adults Are you an adult wanting to play the harp? Have a look at this info for grownups.
Learning at Home with the Teach Yourself book If you live a busy life, or maybe don't want to spend more money on lessons, or drive through traffic to get to them, you can work through the teach yourself book at home at your own pace. This book will guide you through the process of learning to play the harp with photographs and exercises to help establish basic playing technique. The teach yourself book has 48 songs and instrumentals for you to play.
Hire a harp and take lessons with a harp teacher in NZ If you have a harp teacher living nearby you can hire an instrument and attend lessons.
Have a look in the New Zealand harp teachers directory and see if there is a teacher close you. If you can't find a teacher nearby you can learn online.
Are you a harp teacher looking for a harp for a student? If you teach harp, either at a school or at home, and have potential students who have no instrument please contact Robyn regarding hire as she is happy to supply harps to other teachers.
Waiting list If all the rental harps are out your name can go on the waiting list. You will be contacted as soon as an instrument comes in to arrange a time to pick it up.
Harp hire and lessons as a gift You can hire a harp for friends or family for Christmas, or a birthday surprise.
Some people choose to also giftlessons with this option. Definitely a very special present!
Looking after the harp Info on looking after the harp when it is in your home, tuning, setting your harp levers and more.
Below is a 26 string rental harp.
Harps are available in a variety of different colours and also in beautiful stained, or natural wood.
Hire harps are subject to availablity - please contact Robyn to discuss what harp would best suit you.
Some people have a go and find they are too busy for learning a musical instrument, others find they love playing the harp and then decide to buy their own, others get very enthusiastic and build their own.
Who knows where having a go at playing the harp may lead you.
Hiring a harp is the easiest and most affordable way for you to try it out.
Below are some comments from people who have hired harps
Jackie - Birkdale, Auckland
Robyn has made trying the harp such a breeze. After decicing that now, as a 29 year old adult, was as good a time as ever to tick giving the harp a go off from my bucket list, I hired a beautiful little blue harp from Robyn. A few months later and I had poured through every page of the Sylvia Woods book (graciously provided with the harp), bought some of my own material to work on and even invested in buying my own harp. If giving the harp a go is something you've always wanted to do, then hiring one from Robyn is an extremely affordable and hassle-free option.
Cathy - Auckland
I had the pleasure of hiring a harp from Robyn Sutherland recently, it was a 23 stringed Daniel Walker harp with a most beautiful sound, a delight to play. Robyn was very helpful and we easily arranged my collection and delivery times. She guided me through her documentation form for hiringand gave me some advice for the care of her harp. This was a new experience for me and I found it to be exciting and a real privilege, and I would do it again if I had the chance. Thank you Robyn.
Melody - Onehunga, Auckland
I have started my harp lesson last year, on one of Robyn's lovely harp. That harp has a nice and well balanced tone, I have enjoyed playing it everyday until I have purchased mo own one.
Tracey-Anne - Point Chevalier, Auckland
Robyn's harps sound beautiful and the whole process of hiring is simple friendly and professional. I've loved having the opportunity to learn new skills through playing such a wonderful instrument and look forward to more lessons with Robyn in the future.
Hannelie - Hamilton
Thank you very much for the opportunity ti hire a harp from you. It has been an awesome experience for me and a dream come true. I absolutely loved the sound of that little 26 string and I miss playing it now. When possible I would love another opportunity to play again in the future.
Sophie - Mairangi Bay, Auckland
Thank you for the opportunity to hire a harp from you Robyn. Was the perfect harp for learning and had such a beautiful sound! Gave me the chance to learn the basics and practice when I could! Thanks again!
Colleen - Whangarei
I just wanted to drop a line and say thank you for sharing your beautiful instrument with me and allowing me to have a tito. It has been an absolute pleasure dealing with you and your support has just blown me away. I can not recommend you and your amazing instruments highly enough. What an absolute moment of beauty it is to play one of your harps. So thank you again for this wee journey and for your time and wisdom.
Elspeth - Auckland
Hiring a harp and accessories from Robyn Sutherland is an absolute delight. Promptness, kindness, ease of communication, going above and beyond, showing patience with One's requests and returning the bond efficiently are many of the points I experienced when I hired 2 harps from Robyn. I would highly recommend Robyn's hiring arrangement to anyone.
Ryan - Wellington
Thank you so much for letting me borrow the harp. It was an absolute delight of being able to finally learn and play such a beautiful instrument and hope to buy my own someday to continue my learning and growth. Thank you again Robyn for the experience.
Jason - Auckland
The harp is a really beautiful instrument, but also one of the least accessible due to their high cost. It has been incredibly helpful to hire a harp from Robyn, giving me ample time to decide whether I enjoyed the harp enough to purchase my own or not (I did!). As such, I would strongly recommend anyone interested in learning the harp to hire one from Robyn first. Her harps are of excellent quality, so you know that the instrument isn't going to hold back your practice and you can really focus on your technique. The hiring process was also hassle-free and straight-forward. If you've always been drawn to the harp, this is a great way to get started without breaking the bank!
Stephen - Auckland
Thank you for the hire of the wee harp. The whole experience was a pleasure! Your hire process was very professional and without any complexity at all. Very nice to do "business" with you.
regards Stephen
Sonya - Auckland
Hiring the Seraphina harp from Robyn was an amazing experience. It brought me in touch with a practice I could never have dreamed to be so special. Taking a class online from her was an inspiration. Robyn is lovely to work with and very supportive in everything harp-related. I already miss having the harp in my home and look forward to hiring again when time allows.
John - Auckland
I had a great experience renting a harp from Robyn. She kept in touch with me and offered a bigger harp when the opportunity arose. On top of that, her level of care and help when one of the strings broke was amazing. The harp that she let me rent had a wonderful tone and was a very good size. I would definitely recommend to anyone who wants to delve into the world of harp to rent a harp from Robyn!
Ruth Dwyer - Auckland
The harp is a wonderful instrument which resonates deep in one's soul. Not only have I experienced this, but there is much documented about the healing therapy of music. I have hired a Harp from Robyn for a couple of years now, and it has brought immense joy to so many. I have used it to play at our local elderly hospital on a fortnightly basis. It has made a tremendous difference to bedridden ill people, staff, and anyone else who has stopped to listen. I am so grateful for the opportunity that Robyn gave me to rent a harp. It has been a journey of discovery, peace and joy. Thank you Robyn for letting me buy this harp from you to continue this adventure.
Sam - Wellington
Robyn provides a unique service with her harp hire offering the opportunity to dabble in the process of learning or relearning this extraordinary instrument. Robyn has been a pleasure to talk with at every stage of the hire process and I would absolutely recommend pursuing this interest with Robyn.
Sarah Harrison - Dunedin
Really great to be able to hire a harp, they aren't easy or cheap to come across normally! The hiring process from Robyn was straightforward, she was really flexible for the length of hire etc, price was great, and the harp was just beautiful to play. It's a rare instrument that sounds amazing even when you don't know what you're doing, so overall a good experience. Highly recommend!
Bronwen Bisley - Herne Bay, Auckland
I'd always been curious about the harp and it was wonderful to finally experience this beautiful instrument. In the harp I found a striking sensation of peace - an antidote to today's rushing world. Robyn is a pleasure to interact with and the hiring process was a breeze.
Brianna - Hospital Hill, Napier
I loved playing the harp very much! Robyn provided a wonderful quality wooden harp that I had the pleasure of playing. It was the perfect size as a beginner and had a lovely tone. The harp came with a beginner book and a tuner, a perfect way to learn the basics and get started. Thank you so much for the experience!
Robyn Wilshire - Shamrock Park, Auckland
Ever since I was a young girl, I had always had a yearning to play the harp, but it wasn't an easily accessible instrument back in the 70's. In 2020 I took the leap and began harp lessons and instantly I was hooked. I initially began on a Waring cardboard harp provided by my teacher but after a month I was required to find a hire harp. Robyn was able to provide me with a 26 string Harrison harp which had a beautiful tone and a good number of strings to be able to play more varied music. After 7 months of learning I am now the proud owner of a stunning CF34 Stewart harp. Being able to hire one of Robyn's harps helped to make the introduction to my harp playing journey easy and affordable. Robyn is friendly, knowledgeable and is eager to encourage others to take up this enchanting instrument. Thank you Robyn!
Graeme Horne - Silverdale, Auckland
We were given Robyn's name by a music teacher. We hired a small harp for my daughter, so she could join the school orchestra. It was a great find and Robyn is a pleasure to deal with.
Leonie Anderson - Northcross, Auckland
The harp had long held a huge fascination for me and when I was in Rivendell, I just happened to spot Robyn's flyer regarding harp hire. I went to her website and after reading all about her and the great reviews, I decided to hire. I was lucky enough to get the Daniel Walker 23 string harp which was light and easy to play and had a bright and beautiful tone. My three months of hire mainly fell in the Covid 19 lockdown, so I was lucky enough to have more time to play. I picked up that harp nearly every day and always found such pleasure from the heavenly sound it produced. I taught myself simple songs by ear, and often enjoyed just plucking random strings and making my own music. Such a soothing instrument, this experience was truly a joy. Thanks for the opportunity Robyn - If not for you I might never had experienced this stunning instrument first hand.
Ritchie - Henderson, Auckland
I've been hiring harp from Robyn for just over a year now, Robyn made the hiring process smooth and easy, the price is affordable too. Highly recommended! Thanks Robyn
Mia - Mt Roskill, Auckland
Thanks for the excellent harps. It helps a lot. Both of the two harps I took were excellent. you will find nothing better than the two harps with such a beautiful price. Thanks Robyn
Asta - Auckland
Hi Robyn, thank you very much for the opportunity to hire and give the harp a go. I absolutely loved it. As a beginner with no experience at all I think it was wise to hire a harp before buying one but next time I would pay for one on one lessons instead of trying to teach myself.
Kawana - Matamata
I've always been interested in the harp but didn't want to spend so much money on an instrument I've never even touched. So I got a hold of Robyn and was super stoked that she had a 26 string harp available for hire. It was the most awesomest experience I've had which allowed me to know that I want to be serious about the harp. I've bought one for myself and cannot wait to continue my harp journey all thanks for this experience. If anyone was interested in the harp I would definitely suggest Robyns services as she is so lovely and helps you with anything to do with your own musical journey,
Ryan - Auckland
Having this small size harp was a great experience for my little harpist. It's very light and portable. The rent is reasonable and affordable.
I will have no hesitation to recomment to my friends if they need one.
Many thanks.
Wendy - Wellington
I hired a 26 string harp for my 7 year old who wanted to start learning harp about 2 years ago. It was no hassle to arrange the hire with Robyn and for a reasonable monthly hire fee we got a lovely little harp for Lucy to learn on until I felt it might be time to buy her one.We have just bought her a harp and returned the instrument to Robyn - who again arranged everything for us and made returning it from Wellington to Auckland very easy. Highly recommended!
Clare Gibbons - Paraparaumu
I have always wanted to learn more about the harp and how it functions along with the beautiful music that resonates with each chord. I was fortunate to find Robyn, and have the opportunity to hire a harp. Robyn offers a professional service within her business. Her expertise and help (the extras on offer when hiring a harp) were welcomed and made a difference to how I played my own music. I would recommend Robyn's service to anyone, any age interested in taking on the "sound of music"
Marion Titmuss - Tauranga - Therapy Harp Training Programme
This is the second time I have used Robyn's excellent Harp rental service, once again I found her extremely helpful, her knowledge and experience really helped me with understanding what Harp was best for my event. Robyn loves to help and this shows in her kindness and willingness to go the extra mile, she is quick to communicate, extremely professional and the harp I loaned was a beautiful, fully levered, well maintained instrument, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend her harp rental scheme to anyone
Colleen and Lily Johnson - Tauranga
My 12-year-old daughter hired a small sized harp from Robyn for harp lessons while we lived in Tauranga. She was gracious enough to allow us to harp hire even though we were far from Auckland. The harp was a perfect beginner's size, and made it possible for my daughter to learn much in just 4 short months. Robyn also provided a tuner and beginning harp book, both were very helpful! Thank you Robyn, for the privilege of caring for your harp so that we might all enjoy the beautiful harp music for these past months.
J Melody - Auckland
Hiring a harp is a wonderful experience, a great way to test out if this instrument is for you or not before you make a big investment. Robyn was very helpful and knowledgeable in assisting me to make the right choice for my needs. Thank you Robyn.
Lisa - Wellington
My 10 year old son Ollie was keen to start learning the harp but my husband and I were suspicious...was this a genuine interest or just a fad? Rather than investing in a harp we decided to hire one from Robyn. This was definitely the right decision. Robyn supplied us with a lovely harp that was excellent quality and the perfect size for a 10 year old to play and carry to and from his lessons. Ollie fell in love with his new instrument, played it every day and after two years of dedication we decided to purchase him his own harp. I can highly recommend Robyn's harp hire service. It allowed our son to explore his passion without my husband and Ii having to commit a big front investment - and Robyn is professional, accommodating and very easy to deal with.
Yuyun - Auckland Central
I'm an Asian girl in New Zealand. When I was in my own country I was very interested in playing harp. But at that time, I had no chance to find a harp and a teacher. After I came to New Zealand, I was searching in the internet and finally I found Robyn. It's really easy to hire a harp and the fee is adorable. And Robyn is a really nice teacher, she is patient and kind. Save me from being awkward lol. Btw her cat is also very very cute and friendly.
Fritz - North Shore, Auckland
Hiring a harp from Robyn was an absolute pleasure. The instrument itself was easy to play and sounded great, and the book and equipment with it really made it nice and straight-forward to learn. I highly recommend Robyn to anyone curious about harps!
Carolyn - Albany, Auckland
Thank you for the service you provide, really worthy for the beginner. My daughter is interested in learning the harp but it is not the right time for her, as she needs to focus on preparing her paino grade exam now. After the last 3 months trial, she knows that she loves it and will buy one when she is ready to continue the harp lesson study in the future. Really appreciated your help.
Serena - Hamilton
It was a lovely experience hiring a harp from Robyn. Having been away from the harp for so long, Robyn made the whole process smooth and easy. Robyn made sure that guidance was provided each step of the way which I greatly appreciated. Will definitely recommend Robyn as the go-to person for anyone looking to step into the beautiful world of harps.
Gwenaelle - Auckland
I started playing the harp when I was in school but once reaching university, I didn't have time to keep practicing. Five years later I thought it would be great to get back into it, but finding a harp in NZ was much harder than in France where I used to live. Robyn was the only person I found renting "big" harps so I got in contact with her. Everything from there was so easy. I had the harp within a couple of weeks and kept it for almost 3 years.
Due to a few changes in circumstances I wasn't able to play as much anymore and thought it was unfair of me to keep the harp when someone else might be looking to hire it. I still thoroughly enjoyed every moment I got to play and definitely hope to find the time to properly get back into it in the future.
I fully recommend for anyone who wants to start or get back into playing the harp to contact Robyn as hiring a harp is the best way to go before putting in the investment to get your own.
The harp is also a beautiful and enchanting instrument that I wish more people played!
Kate - Auckland
Hiring the harp from Robyn over several months has meant my daughter has had the opportunity to begin learning this beautiful instrument. Dealing with Robyn has been very straight forward and easy. My daughter has fallen in love with playing the harp and we have now been able to buy her one of her own. Thanks so much for the opportunity to hire one Robyn and help her begin this musical journey.
Lisa - Auckland
The whole process of renting the harp was quick and easy. With the harp I got a step by step guide to teach me how to play from the very beginning which was really useful and I had a tuner to make sure my harp was at the perfect tone to play on. The service was really good. I recommend Robyn Sutherland when it comes to harps.
Kristin - Waiatarua, Auckland
Having access to a harp for our daughter to learn on was an absolute dream.
She was able to learn a new instrument without the full outlay on a new instrument without knowing how long she might hold an interest in it for.
Robyn is an absolute pleasure to deal with, I will miss the sound of the harp in the house and sincerely hope our daughter decides to take it up again in the future. Hoping we will be back!
Paola - Auckland
Thank you Robyn for your help..! I really enjoy play with the Harp..! I love the beautiful sound of the Harp .. Is a very relaxing and make me wanted to play more..! Definitely I do recommend you to other so they have have a try and experience the same sensation that I did...! : )
Jono - Christchurch
Robyn has been so helpful in getting me started playing the harp. I was able to rent a harp and practice at my own speed which made it a stress-free experience. She sent me all the materials I needed and was responsive to any queries I had along the way. Proving, even if you are an adult, you are never too old to try something new! Thanks Robyn.
Harley - Hamilton
Thank you so much for the creating the opportunity for people to hire a harp. It was excellent to have the experience of playing this wonderful instrument without having to outlay thousands of dollars. Robyn is friendly and helpful to deal with too. You will have a great experience hiring a harp from Robyn!
Laura Crossen - Grey Lynn, Auckland
I love learning the harp and Robyn is such a patient teacher. Renting a harp was great as well as I was able to go home and practice. She is very encouraging and even as a total beginner with the instrument and music as well, she makes me feel enthusiastic about the learning experience. The whole experience has been lovely. I can't wait to play as beautifully as she does :)
Sue-e - Auckland
It has been a great experience hiring a harp from Robyn. I have always wanted to play a harp, but thought it was too difficult to get one. However, Robyn was able to hire a harp to me so I can start playing. It has a lovely sound and is a really good quality instrument. I really enjoyed it. If you are wanting to try a harp, hire one from Robyn and give it a go. As a teacher, Robyn is able to show clearly what is the best way to play the harp.
Regards
Sue-e
Lucy Montgomery - Levin
It was fantastic. I enjoyed it and thank you for the opportunity to do so. It's something I have wanted to do for a long time.
Christine - Hamilton
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for a childhood dream come true. I have just enjoyed 6 months of experiencing the beauty that is the harp, as did my children, who were inspired to give it a go as well, thanks to the convenience of having one in our home. Robyn, thank you for trusting us with your instrument. You've been an absolute joy to deal with and couldn't have made this any better than what it was. Despite not being in the same city, The six months I've enjoyed the harp have been a dream and a breeze and I would highly recommend, if not urge, anyone who is considering or wishing to try the most beautiful instrument on earth.
Lynda - Warkworth
Thank you so much for providing a harp rental service and giving me the opportunity to discover what a joy and delight playing the harp is. Even as a beginner it sounded wonderful and has given me many hours of pleasure.
Suzanne - Whangarei
I have a small lap harp and wanted to see if I preferred a larger harp instead so I hired a 29 string harp from Robyn for three months. She supplied a great learner's book which was easy to follow and had varied and interesting tunes in it, as well as tuner and tuning fork. The cost was very reasonable. Robyn was easy to deal with and I am very pleased I used her service. I highly recommend Robyn if you are looking at hiring a harp.
Johanna - Mission Bay, Auckland
Thank you Robyn for your help..! I really enjoy play with the harp..! I love the beautiful sound of the harp .. Is a every relaxing and make me wanted play more..! Definitely I do recommend you to other so they have a try and experience the same sensation that I did...! :)
Sally - Whangaparaoa
Robyn has offered the most incredible support to me since I decided I would like to be able to play some harp music to my dad on his deathbed. I have had the privilege of hiring first a 22 string harp and then moved to a 29 string at Robyn's suggestion. Both harps were in great condition with a beautiful sound.
Being a complete beginner, Robyn helped me find a way to tune the harps, offered support and encouragement along the way and when I went to pick up my second harp was keen to show me some basic harping skills.
I wholeheartedly recommend Robyn and the harps she obviously cherishes, she definitely makes starting to play easy.
Dana - Wellington
Absolutely loved hiring a harp from Robyn. After learning the harp as a child it was wonderful to have the opportunity to start playing again. I found the complementary instruction book very helpful and Robyn also directed me to some fantastic websites with contemporary sheet music. Highly recommend playing the harp and hiring hrough Robyn.
Carmen - Auckland
Hiring a harp and taking lessons with Robyn has been completely wonderful. Such a fabulous introduction to playing an instrument for a complete (and late in life) beginner. I felt a little insecure abut this new venture of learning to play at first, but Robyn soon made me feel like (even I) could learn and enjoy the beautiful instrument. Would definitely recommend the experience!
Rona and Nathan - Whangarei
Hiring a harp from Robyn has been a wonderful experience for our 9 year old daughter. She has wanted to learn for a few years, being able to hire an instrument has given us as parents the opportunity to see if our daughter was committed to learning the harp before purchasing one. Robyn has always been very easy to contact and accommodating. Her hire harp was in lovely condition. Thank you.
David - Auckland
Many thanks for the hire of the lovely harp while I was in New Zealand recently. The service you provided was refreshingly straightforward and helpful and the instrument was clearly a delightful and special item. It was a real joy to have the use of it and will remain a special, positive part of my memories of New Zealand. Thank you so much.
Mike - Auckland
At aged 60 I thought that I had "missed theta" as far as making music was concerned, however with Robyn's amazing skill and patience, I was able to amaze my family, even if they are easily pleased and very kind - or maybe it was because they were fed up with the Saxophone. Whatever it was - I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would not hesitate in recommending Robyn and her amazing harps.
Sousana - Auckland
I thoroughly enjoyed learning the harp and found that Robyn was very accommodating and was willing to help if needed. The learning book is very helpful and goes through learning the harp step by step. I would highly recommend Robyn to anyone wanting to learn the harp. A great experience!
Gundy - Paraparaumu
Being able to hire a harp for six months from Robyn allowed me to try out my dream of playing this most beautiful of instruments before purchasing my own harp. Robyn made the whole process of getting the harp to me a breeze. I really appreciated Robyn's excellent communication and obvious care and enthusiasm in sharing her lovely instruments. I shall miss the little 26 string harp. It has been a blessing not just to me but to others as well. An example of this was, while taking a music therapy session with one of my aggressive autistic clients, she calmed right down and actually fell asleep while listening to the harp's calming and healing sounds. I was absolutely amazed! A heartfelt thanks to you Robyn. May many others get to discover the pleasure of playing the harps you offer.
Sam - Auckland
There is something very special about having beautiful musical instruments in the home for the whole family to play and experiment with, for growing children to find comfort and happiness in the sound, and to encourage singing together. You can fill a space with peace when there is a harp to play!
Charlotte - Browns Bay, Auckland
I had always been very interested in learning the harp but it isn't the easiest of instruments to find hiring and teaching for. Robyn really solved that problem with her harp hire! I took lessons casually over a few years with Robyn and I really enjoyed it. Whether it was my own practice or lesson with Robyn, it was always an enjoyment and I never found it tedious. I felt myself improving over time with what felt like no effort at all as I got lots of great tips right from the first lesson. Besides the book we are given to practice and learn with, Robyn wrote her own simple tunes to let me edit on my own; either by slightly more difficult accompaniment or adding new parts. I found the flexibility for your own creativity refreshing. While Robyn is very professional and effective in her teachings, she is also a very kind, patient, and definitely funny teacher. I enjoyed our lessons together and I hope to return to have lessons soon! : )
Jill - Auckland
It was an absolute pleasure hiring a harp from Robyn. She was lovely to deal with at all times and the harp was absolutely beautiful and sounded just as one imagines this magical instrument will sound. Even without any skill or knowledge it was possible to create lovely music! It was much easier to learn and play than I expected (I was a complete novice) however like any musical instrument it does take time and practice to master more complex music, particularly the skill of playing with two hands simultaneously. I would highly recommend hiring a harp from Robyn and experiencing the joy of this beautiful instrument.
HineAo - Auckland
Thank you sincerely for allowing me to hire and play the harp. It is a truly beautiful and mystical instrument and playing it brought me so much inner joy and peace. I know in the future the harp will once again be a part of my life. I still listen to harp music playing as part of meditations now and again.
Rachel - Auckland
I really enjoyed hiring the harp from Robyn! As someone with no musical background, the harp proved quite easy and fun to learn since is sounded so magical even when just plucking random strings. Would definitely hire again from Robyn. She is really accommodating and helpful.
Sam - Wellington
I highly recommend Robyn's services! I hired one of Robyn's 26-string levered harp and although I live in Wellington, the harp came to me easily through another harp hirer in Welly. The monthly price for hiring is very reasonable and I managed to save a considerable amount on shipping costs because I passed it onto another person in Wellington at the end of my hiring period. Robyn is very flexible in her services and thus helped make this a wonderful experience for me.
Margaret - New Plymouth
I found Robyn very helpful and the harp she rented me has a lovely tone. I certainly hope to rent from her again next time I have a longer stay in New Zealand.
Wayne - Auckland
I had a great time learning the harp on the rental, and it was a great harp for a beginner like me to try out.
It sounded great and was loads of fun to play.
David - Auckland
I really enjoyed learning to play the harp and found the time I spent practising very relaxing and easier than I was expecting, it has also encouraged me to get back into reading music which along with the playing I find very beneficial in regard to exercising my mind.
So many thanks for giving myself and others the opportunity to experience the pleasure of this old and magical instrument.
Lillian - Auckland
Learning to play the harp has been an awesome experience for me. I recommend this incredible instrument to anybody young or old. The beautiful sound that comes out of this 26 stringed instrument is so amazing. Thank you Robyn for giving me this opportunity Mauri ora, Lilz.
Alison - Bethlehem, Tauranga
I just would like to say thank you very much for the opportunity to hire a harp. I heard a lady playing the harp at a farmers market and fell in love with the sound. I didn't want to outlay a lot of money initially, in case I found the harp too hard to play. So to find your website and the chance to hire was a blessing.
It only took 4 months of playing the harp before I ordered my very own harp. And the harp I hired from you sounds as beautiful as the harp I purchased.
I still argue with you that your charges are far too cheap.
Thank you for all your correspondence regarding the harp and the help you have offered freely.
To anyone interested in hiring a harp; I recommend it and also at least one lesson with Robyn to get you started.
Thanks again Robyn and I will keep in touch.
To me the harp is like water, peaceful and relaxing.
Roseanne - Birkenhead, Auckland
After deciding that I'd like to learn the harp, I thought finding a teacher and instrument to learn on would be a challenge. But after discovering Robyn's website, I had hired a harp and had a lesson all within the week. The hiring process was exceptionally smooth and easy. At lessons, Robyn is patient and encouraging; she's very perceptive and sensitive to finding a pace that suits you best. Most importantly, she communicates exceptionally well which is so helpful when learning a completely new instrument. I thoroughly enjoyed and am still very much enjoying my journey with the harp.
Alice - Tauranga
Learning the harp is different to any other instrument I have begun on, it does not require getting past the "beginner's stage" to receive the full sound sensation, unlike the violin or guitar where you must practice for months before the sound is clear and resonating, with the harp you pluck a string and instantly you receive chills down your spine from the angelic clear tone. When I first hired Robyn's harp it was a very windy evening, I took the harp out of it's case on the balcony and the wind blowing across the strings was enough to "force" the instrument to play by itself, it was a beautiful sound, it was like the harp started singing the winds song. I hired 2 of Robyn's harps for about a year, a 22 string harp and a 29, it was a great idea to hire a few harps before I invested in my own! Many thanks to Robyn and her harps : )
Adele - Palmerston North
The hire experience was excellent. It was everything I needed.
Thanks again for been able to help me and allow me to play for my family.
Stephanie Vaillant - working in New Plymouth - from Canada
While thrilled to land a contract position in New Zealand, I was concerned that I wouldn't be able to keep up my harp playing while abroad. Thankfully I found Robyn. She was very helpful in matching me with an instrument that would accommodate my repertoire. The harp delivery was so efficient that the instrument arrived the same day I did, so I didn't miss a single day of practice. Thanks for everything, Robyn!
Elaine Forshaw - visiting Auckland - from Ontario Canada
I was so grateful I could rent a harp from you when I knew I was going to be in New Zealand for two months.
I take lessons in Canada & wanted very much to continue practising while here. You were a godsend. I enjoyed playing the harp you had for me while I was in New Zealand and I feel I was able to keep up the skills I had developed & then some. Thank you so much for making it available. Perhaps when I return I will do this again.
Andrea - Auckland
Just to say a big thank you for the hire of the harp. Interestingly, my husband never really took to playing it much, but my 23 year old son, a violinist and electric guitar player, never put it down and managed to enchant us with some beautiful Irish tunes! Many thanks again!
Liz - Auckland
I have always enjoyed hearing 'live music' and recently had an opportunity to hear some beautiful music being played on a celtic harp. The enchanting, gentle notes were quite captivating. I decided that I needed to check out the 'celtic harp scenario' in New Zealand. I went online and came across Robyn's site and ended up hiring one of her celtic harps. I was thrilled that a harp was available within a very short period of time and Robyn was most encouraging and supportive of my very amateur ability - setting me up with a suitable instrument and offering some sound 'first' steps for playing the harp. I have thoroughly enjoyed playing and have had such positive feedback from family and friends! Robyn's harp hire service enabled me to grow in my appreciation and commitment to harp playing and I now look forward to buying my own harp.
Cherry - Auckland
It's been easy and wonderful hiring the harp from Robyn. It definitely helped my dream of learning to play the harp come true. It's great that Robyn has different sizes of harps for hire. She showed me how to tune and look after the harp well. I simply loved the mellow tone of the harp I hired. I also enjoyed the harp lessons with Robyn and appreciated her friendly, patient and encouraging way of teaching. Thank you Robyn.
Hannah - Te Awamutu
The harp is a beautiful instrument and had a lovely sound right from the first minute I started to play. I have enjoyed learning to play the different songs from the 'Teach yourself' book which came with the harp, it has been a marvellous experience. I was amazed at the condition and fantastic quality of the harp that I hired from Robyn, I would like to thank Robyn for hiring me one of her harps and giving me the chance to learn such a gorgeous instrument. Thank you.
Lauren - Auckland / Dunedin
During a seven week clinical placement in Auckland I hired a 22 string harp from Robyn to use as a therapeutic tool in brain injury rehabilitation. I was unable to bring up my much larger harp, so was thrilled to find someone as accessible and knowledgeable as Robyn to hire from. The harp was a fantastic size for easy transportation; the sound was lovely and it was easy to tune. I loved that it was painted blue and so did my clients. If you're ever in need of a harp, whether it was for a short time (like me) or a longer amount of time, I strongly recommend Robyn! Thank you, Lauren.
Mel - Parnell, Auckland
I am very thankful to have the chance to learn harp and it is great that Robyn provides the harp renting service. The service is great, as I am able to decide when I want to rent it and when to return it. And Robyn is such a kind and fast responsive person, one time, a string broke and after one email to Robyn, the new string was posted the next day - really great!
Tracey - Auckland
I just wanted to say a big thank you for the hiring of one of your lovely harps. The teach yourself book is fabulous. The harp has a lovely sound and is very easy to carry around. Its also great to be given a harp tuner as part of the teach yourself package. I look forward to learning more about harpistry with you in the future.
Kimberley - Auckland
I loved hiring a harp for 6 months - it was easy to learn when you apply yourself! The harp was beautiful and simple to tune. Thanks Robyn.
Emily - Auckland
I have always wanted to have a go at playing the harp and found the harp hire to be an incredible opportunity to do so. It was very easy to hire the harp and I enjoyed learning at my own pace. Also the harp is lovely and peaceful to listen to, even when played by a beginner. : )
Wendy - Auckland
The harp is such a lovely instrument! Glad I had a go, even though I'm slack at practicing. I thoroughly recommend hiring one, especially for those of you who don't have a lot of spare time, I did 15 - 30 mins of practice before going to work in the morning and it was a beautiful way to start the day.
The whole hire package - some informal technique advice when I picked up the harp, a beginners book and the tuning equipment, is really good value. Simple hire terms, nothing complicated and Robyn is only a phone call away and always happy to help.
Sandra - Devonport, Auckland
Being able to rent a harp from Robyn fulfilled a long-held desire of mine to learn to play the harp. This provided me with an affordable opportunity to learn, with the book provided, at my own pace. I attended a couple of harp circles with Robyn and some of her other pupils and this, apart from being very enjoyable, spurred me on. I also had a few lessons and found Robyn a patient and encouraging teacher. All in all I would unreservedly recommend Robyn's harp rental scheme to anyone who wants to give it a go!
Colin - Auckland
I will always be grateful to Robyn for making a harp available to me so that I was able to take lessons. Being an older pupil and not knowing anything about the world of harpists it was wonderful to discover Robyn and the harps she hires out. I hired a beautiful sounding small harp for beginners until I was able to buy my own. Robyn was also very helpful in lending me a music book for beginners and providing me with a lot of useful information regarding harps.
Thank you Robyn for helping me to get started on the musical enjoyment I am now experiencing.
Bree - Auckland
I was overjoyed at the quality of the harp I hired from Robyn! The sound was beautiful and , as I was traveling, the size of the instrument was just perfect for my lifestyle! I would highly recommend this harp to anyone, whether a beginning student or a more advanced player. What a wonderful opportunity to use such a beautiful instrument!
Samantha - Devonport, Auckland
Hiring the harp from Robyn was so easy, a monthly direct debit gave me the freedom to learn and practise the harp at home without spending a fortune on owning one. It's a lovely little harp and I found it really easy to learn on and having carried it around Auckland to lessons, it's easy to travel with too.
Julie Murphy - Auckland
Hiring a harp for a couple of months recently was a really worthwhile experience. It was great to have the opportunity to try out playing this instrument and I really appreciate the access Robyn’s harp hire provides for people like me who are keen to have a go. With a lesson to get me started initially I then carried on with the Teach Yourself book which was provided. The book was very user friendly, I found it easy to follow and there was a nice selection of tunes to play. I got a lot of enjoyment out of playing the harp even for the short time I had it so thank you Robyn for this excellent service.
Sue - Waitakere, Auckland
Hiring a harp from Robyn has been a great experience. It was a lovely 26 string instrument, that came with a book of music - from beginner level to expert, tuning key and tuner. Robyn has given me short lessons on the basics of tuning, holding the harp, and playing it, and playing chords. She has kept in touch, offering support and information, and advising of harp gatherings. Robyn's ongoing support and encouragement has resulted in me buying my own kitset harp, knowing I can go back to her for more lessons as I need them.
Meg - Auckland
I had wanted to try the harp for years but was always put off by the cost of buying a harp. Then when I finally checked the internet I found Robyn had harps for hire at a reasonable cost and she was only 20 minutes away. She agreed to show me the ropes since I was not intending to have lessons and continued to show an interest in my progress, even going to the extent of sending me a book of Medieval harp music which she thought I might find interesting. All in all, a very pleasant experience - and now she's teaching my daughter.
Victoria - Auckland
The harp is such a magical instrument. To me it's sound transcends the physical world and enters a realm that speaks to our hearts of beauty, peace, and tranquillity. Robyn gives such a gift through allowing people to hire these beautiful instruments and sharing her knowledge so willingly with others. I look forward to a time when I can dedicate myself to the proper learning of this instrument.
Claire - Auckland
The harp I hired had a lovely tone and was a good size. The extras - book, bag, tuner, tuning wrench - were likewise excellent and altogether provided the perfect starting kit. The harp is a wonderful instrument to play - really therapeutic, and it always sounds nice, unlike beginning on the violin. I very much enjoyed the time I had with the harp and am now waiting until I can afford one of my own.
Davis - Hamilton
The harp provided was in excellent condition with a beautiful tone and just the right number of strings and levers to learn on. Easy to tune; no issues. The beginners book provided was easy to read from and had a lot of interesting music, gradually grading up to more sophisticated numbers. Robyn has always been pleasant, friendly and gently encouraging. I'm deeply thankful I had the opportunity to hire a harp from her, and look forward to commissioning one.
Susan - Auckland
First of all, thank you so much for helping Martin to give me the most innovative Christmas gift I have ever had from him! I loved your CD and have really enjoyed experimenting with the lovely little harp he hired from you. I was able to follow the first part of the book, and once I had found middle C was able to start picking out various tunes. However, as I have played piano by ear for years now I have completely forgotten the theory part of music and therefore would have to start learning it all over again to be able to do justice to having my own harp. I'm afraid this would really be in the too-hard basket for me now, both mentally and also from finding the time to do so.
Having a harp of my own for two months has just been lovely and I now find I can appreciate the playing of it more when I see various harpists playing in films or DVD's - I can understand to a greater extent what they are doing. So it really has been worthwhile, even if I don't follow up with lessons. Thank you so much again for what was a wonderful surprise and many hours happily playing around with it.
Tania - Auckland
The beautiful harp I hired from Robyn I found to be a relaxing way to ‘have a go’ - having the time to learn before making further commitment was a great recommendation for me.
Toby - Auckland
I found the sound and presence of the harp a joy on our home. my wife played our children to sleep often.
Ruth - Oratia, Auckland
Robyn has a care and sensitivity for the harp and for her students that makes you want to continue to develop your skills. Being able to hire one of her harps made it possible for me to fulfill a childhood dream of playing the harp. The harps are beautiful to play with great resonance and even a beginner can make beautiful music with them. Thanks Robyn for this wonderful opportunity.
Eva - Auckland
Hamish started playing his harp almost 2 years ago.
He got a beautifully painted harp in an excellent condition.
Being only 8 we were not so sure whether he will continue with this instrument for long so we've decided to hire this magic instrument from Robyn. The sound and ease of use made him fall in love with this instrument, and we never have to ask him to practice once. We would highly recommend to anyone who wants to experience the sound of a harp to give it a go. You may surprise yourself. The size is very portable and the amount of strings, perfect for a beginner.
Sian - Auckland
Thank you so much, it has been great practicing on the harp and I wish I could afford to rent and save for my own one at the same time. All in good time. Once I have my own I will probably come and have some lessons, esp as I will have forgotten all I have learnt so far by the time I have my own.
This is the story of one lady who hired a harp. . .
To me, playing harp in a small intimate setting is very fulfilling. I believe the sound of the harp can be very healing – it has this way of ministering to the soul and spirit. This is especially true for people who are perhaps more vulnerable and needy. The amazing fact is, that in my modest musical offerings on harp, my listeners aren’t the only ones who are touched – I am blessed in the process as well.
A grateful recipient of a NZHS grant, I have managed to purchase several compilations of harp music, ranging from well-known baroque and classical music simply arranged for harp to lesser known modern contemplative works. As I increase my repertoire I enjoy interweaving all manner of styles (on sheet music or improvised) however always aiming to maintain an atmosphere of stillness and ‘wholeness.’
My harp playing takes me into rest homes on the Kapiti Coast, to music therapy sessions with children with special needs, to hospital wards and housebound people battling serious illness or those who just need a lift. My husband and I also team up to play at contemplative church services and retreats.
I have collected some precious memories in the nearly 3 years that I have been playing harp. Here are a few examples: A particularly challenging autistic girl I work with in a school setting became unbelievably calm upon hearing the harp live for the first time. This angry and even at times violent 8-year-old promptly curled up on her teacher aide’s lap and fell asleep! I was blown away! Her aide knew we were onto something special so if I couldn’t play “live”, reordered harp music was pretty successful in calming her down as well.
Seeing the joy on the faces of the elderly when being given the opportunity to have a turn at ‘playing’ my harp is marvellous. Something magical happens when they gently gliss up and down the strings. Other special moments happen when dementia patients who don’t often speak, sing every word of a well-known hymn or song from yesteryear!
Recently I played for my Dad in Wellington hospital. He had had major surgery and harp music was a welcome distraction from the pain and worry. His roommates on the ward seemed equally pleasurably diverted. As it happened a family friend was admitted to the same hospital a floor down so the harp was packed up and reassembled a few minutes later where it seemed most of that ward’s patients and staff enjoyed a brief live musical interlude!
It would be fair to say that I have myself come ‘full circle’ on my musical journey, rekindling the first love of playing music for fun and for others. I remember doing this as a primary school aged recorder player when I got a buzz out of playing in small musical ventures.
From the age of 19, I was a professional symphony orchestra oboist in NZ and then in Sydney for 20 years. It would be fair to say that I achieved a lot musically during that time. However, a spinal injury saw my career end overnight ending up with my family moving back to NZ. I was also an avid cross stitcher but when this too became too hard on my neck I thought I’d try something totally new and took up the harp, hiring one from Robyn Sutherland in Auckland. Needless to say, I was soon addicted to this new way of playing music….not only did it sound nice, it had added benefits………...one could talk/sing and play at the same time and one didn’t have to spend hours making reeds!
I would classify myself as still quite a beginner with much to learn but I try not to let this hold me back from sharing the music I can play with others. Within half a year of first hiring a harp, Keith Harrison from Harps of the South had built me a gorgeous 34 string lever harp and now I play not to hundreds in a concert hall but to just a few folks at a time. To me this is every bit as fulfilling – perhaps even more so. This is what music is all about – bringing pleasure, joy, memories, calmness and healing to others (and to me too in the process!!)
Let me encourage you to share your music with others, no matter how modestly, on this most beautiful of instruments we have the privilege of playing.
Gudrun Turner