Finding Solutions: One Harp Bench At A Time

I feel there is a solution to every problem and not only do I admire harpists in the way they become so proficient on their challenging instruments, but I also have seen first hand the problems they face along the way. Having known many harpists in the past and having volunteered a "little man power" at several local harp festivals (you harpists know what I'm talking about), I have really taken note of what harpists could use to make their lives just a little bit easier and more comfortable. First of all, due to the sheer size of many harps out there, the first thing a harpist probably ponders is, "do I have a vehicle large enough to fit this thing"? And, then of course, there is the gear that goes along with it: a harp cart, a music stand, perhaps a music bag for sheet music, tuner, etc., and finally a harp bench. I don't know how many times I have observed ladies who are along in years and seeing the determination on their care-worn faces as they struggle to load and unload all of these items, making several trips along the way, all for the love of the harp and the beautiful music it can produce.

My business began over 5 years ago with the creation of a harp bench. It was the first item ever crafted in my woodshop and was created with the input of many of these experienced harpists I have known throughout the years. I learned that harpists were looking for a bench that was as light in weight as possible and portable in size. It had to be sturdily built with quality and pleasing to the eye. And, most importantly, the harp bench had to be COMFORTABLE!

So, why is it that so many of the mainstream harp benches available today seem to go against what harpists really need? Many benches approach some extreme weights for transport and are often intended for other instruments such as the keyboard or piano, and when it comes to quality and long lasting construction, they fall short. I often wonder how many harpists out there have suffered from the common problems with adjustable harp benches where the mechanism becomes creaky over time and the legs of the bench fastened by a wingnut eventually start to come loose resulting in a wobbly platform for playing. In discussing the "looks" of these benches, have you ever wondered what it means when harp bench manufacturers use the term "finishes"? Unfortunately, what it means for the harpist, is that they are going to receive a bench constructed from very inexpensive woods that are "toned down" to various shades of color that can supposedly "match" the harp. With the enormous variety of harps available to the discriminating harpist in literally hundreds of different wood, wood figure, and stain combinations, realistically, this just isnt' possible with the common harp bench. And now, regarding what I feel is the "biggie"...comfort. Circulation loss in the legs is a big concern for many harpists, yet certain styles of harp benches possess a wooden band that surround the cushion! Yes, it may add a nice decorative touch to the bench I agree, but these types of decorative accents should never be allowed to interfere with the function of the piece. And, with a harp bench, its function is to give the harpist a comfortable place to sit while practicing or performing and should not distract from, or provide a contrast to, the harp. I like to think of the relationship between the harp and harp bench in the same manner as the piano and piano bench. They should simply complement each other. Another issue with comfort is in the very cushion itself. Where is the cushion? Is an inch of padding really enough to stand up to hours and hours of seated practice or rehearsals? I think not. I was appalled when I once removed staples from the cushion of a swivel harp stool, and peeled back the vinyl upholstery to find several layers of quarter inch thick styrofoam! No wonder it felt so hard when I sat on it!

Needless to say, I feel the harpist deserves more from their harp bench. The harp is arguably the most beautiful musical instrument in the world, one of oldest musical instruments that has withstood the test of time, and so too should your harp bench. A wise man once said: "The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low prices is forgotten". Now, naturally this does not mean that the harpist should go out and find the most expensive harp bench available, but it does mean that he or she should be sure that whomever the harp bench is bought from can offer them certain things.

Here's a sample checklist/questionnaire for you in finding the right harp bench for you that will solve your problems:

1. Is it comfortable?
2. Is the cushion made from quality materials? (Upholstery foam, batting)
3. Is the cushion soft enough to be comfortable, yet supportive enough for say, a pedal harp?
4. Can I choose the upholstery for my bench?
5. Can it be any upholstery pattern I want?
6. Can I send the manufacturer my own upholstery?
7. Will it truly match my home furnishings or instrument?
8. What if I want a custom size for my seating area...can that be done?
9. Can my bench be built in any height or height range?
10. Do I have options with the design of my harp bench that enable me to complement any furniture style period?
11. Is it light enough to carry in one hand?
12. Will it fit into my car along with my other harp necessities?
13. Does it have storage under the seat for music, tuning key, metronome, etc.?
14. What if I have a problem with my bench, will the manufacturer help me?
15. Here's a picture of my harp, can it be matched in design and wood choice?
16. Are the legs firmly attached so they won't come loose over time?
17. Can my bench have a backrest?
18. Is there a bench that can be made adjustable?
19. Does the manufacturer offer any ergonomic seating choices for harpists if desired?
20. Can I give the manufacturer my ideas for a completely different harp bench and have it created especially for me?
21. May I speak directly with the maker of my bench?
22. Does the manufacturer guarantee all of his work to last a lifetime?
23. I want a high gloss pink harp bench with black polka dots and plaid upholstery. Can that be done for me?

If any of these questions cannot be answered with a definitive "YES!" (even question 23), then there is something out there that is better for you, your health, and your harp. My business is all about finding solutions to problems that musicians face, and I want to find the right solution for you in a custom designed harp bench that fits you and your instrument perfectly. Together, we can find a solution: one harp bench at a time.

- Ron Kieper (Professional Musician & Master Craftsman of BBR Woodworks)