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Which Harp is Right for Me?

Lever Harp or Pedal Harp?

The main difference between lever harp and pedal harp is in the method employed to change semi-tones: lever harps have a separate lever on each string which is engaged by hand. Pedal harps employ a complicated mechanism worked by a system of seven foot pedals.This brings around several secondary differences: pedal harps need to be considerably larger and heavier than lever harps to accommodate the pedal mechanism. Therefore, they have more volume and projection, making them more suited to ensemble playing. The pedal harp semi-tone mechanism is far more effective than lever harps, so they are capable of complicated key changes which often occur in classical music and jazz. However, this mechanism and its accompanying size come at a price: they are significantly more expensive than lever harps and far less portable.  

An advantage to lever harps is that they come in a variety of sizes, from large, floor-standing harps of 34-38 strings, to small, portable lap and travel harps.


Dusty Strings lever harp

Lever Harps from Clive Morley Harps

We stock 20 to 38 string lever harps made by Dusty Strings, Salvi, Lyon & Healy, Aoyama, Elysian, Triplett Harps and Noteworthy.

From lap harps to large, floor-standing harps, we have lever harps to suit every budget, interest and ability. 

Lever Harp Price List

Salvi pedal harps

Pedal Harps from Clive Morley Harps

We stock a range of Aoyama, Lyon & Healy and Salvi pedal harps from three-quarter sized student harps to luxury grand recital harps for professional harpists.

Pedal Harp Price List



Further Information

If you would like further help in determining whether a lever or pedal harp would be most suitable for you, our article What Type of Harp is Right for Me? gives more details about the main features and differences between them.