Congratulations! You have made the leap and have decided to take up the harp! I am truly happy for you. Harp communities are growing, and it is so exciting that you will be joining us! However, one daunting task still lies ahead of you - finding a harp teacher. Below are some questions designed to help you find a teacher that will suit you and your goals. However, it is important to note that these are not a comprehensive list. You should still ask about rates, where they can give lessons, et cetera.
Additional note: If the teacher does meet muster on one question below, do not scratch them off your list. These questions are designed simply to elicit important information as you weigh the pros and cons of each person you interview!
Q1: How long have you been teaching the harp?
There is no right or wrong answer for this question ... even if they say they have no teaching experience! They still may have played the harp for 10-15 years but have not really taught the harp before. Another potential positive is that, as a new teacher, they may charge significantly lower rates. However, do be on the alert for body language, comment tones, and overall engagement. If you want a positive, upbeat teacher, then look for those signs that they will be that for you. Teaching experience, albeit helpful, may not be required provided they have the right temperament, other qualifications, and answer the below question.
Q2: Are you comfortable teaching children/teens/adults?
Whether or not the prospective teacher has any teaching experience, this is an appropriate question. If they are new to teaching, it could be they have not considered what age(s) of students they are comfortable around. Personally, I have taught the harp to students as young as six and as old as ... well, let's just leave it at their being great-grandparents. However, having that wide-range of history is not necessary if you (or your child) is a specific age. The thing to look out for is them being uncomfortable around you or the prospective student. After all, motivating a first grader versus an elderly person is a whole different ballgame.
Q3: What styles of harp/harp music do you teach?
Most harpists who have played for awhile are familiar with both lever and pedal harps. However, that does not guarantee they have the qualifications you want. For example, if you are interested in becoming a classical harpist, then a Celtic harp teacher may not fully get you to your goals. Similarly, a classical harpist may only get you so far with folk music.
Q4: In what kind of settings have you played your harp?
Do you have a dream of playing with the symphony? Do you dream of playing gorgeous music for others at swanky parties? Do you want to go backpacking with your harp and play for the wildlife on top of a mountain? (Yes, that last one is actually possible!) If you have a specific dream, do not be afraid to share that with your harp teacher. It is our job to help you achieve that dream, and if we have similar experience, that is even better!
Q5: What does a typical lesson look like?
I cannot stress how important this question is. Even more than experience, this question will help you effectively determine which teacher best suits you. Some teachers are strictly a "come play for me your assigned songs and I will critique your performance" type while others may have a "come and share your struggles, let's go through the music, practice key techniques where you struggle, and make this time fun and motivating" style. Both of these have their merits, and it really is more of a personal choice. If you are very black-and-white and just-tell-me-what-I-need-to-know, the first style may be better suited for you. If you know you will need motivation to get through the "I cannot believe I decided to do this; I must be crazy!" moments, then the latter may better work for you.
I hope this list proves helpful for you and your search for a harp teacher! Always feel free to reach out with any questions you have. Good luck!