A harp teacher teaches students how to play the harp. A person in this field instructs students not only in how to play, but also in how to improve once they’ve learned the basics. He also instructs students in how to read music and to play not only solo, but also to accompany other instruments. This type of music instructor may teach students a full range of music styles as well, ranging from classical music to folk songs.
The harp is a type of stringed instrument that may be heard at a wide range of events, including concerts and weddings. Harpists also play in orchestras and operas as well as in other settings. A harp teacher helps prepare students who want to become performers as well as those who are planning to seek music degrees. These are not the only students with which a harp teacher may work, however. A harp teacher also instructs students who are merely interested in playing for the enjoyment of it.
A harp teacher teaches his students how to use this instrument to play chords, bass and melodies. Many people call the harp a complex instrument because it can produce so many different sounds. This can make for a pleasing variety of music without requiring another instrument to accompany it. Harp teachers, however, work to make learning the instrument less complex, allowing the student to gradually learn to play it to its full potential.
Some harp teachers provide music lessons independently. This means they teach the harp out of their own home or by visiting the homes of their students. An independent teacher may also open his own studio. Either way, a teacher who opts to teach independently typically has to advertise and seek referrals to get students. Some harp teachers may choose to do so part time while other teach full time.
Alternatively, a harp teacher may choose to work for another party or organization. For example, he may work in a music studio or school someone else owns or in a public or private school’s music program. Some also teach music in colleges and universities.
Generally, anyone who knows how to play the harp well can become a harp teacher. Additional requirements are usually set for those who will teach in public and private schools, however. Public and private school settings may require a prospective harp teacher to have a bachelor’s degree. Colleges and universities typically require master’s or doctoral degrees instead.