8 Best Harp Instruments

Are you a fan of traditional instruments? If so, you’ll love this review comparing various harps and jaw harps! These unique instruments have a rich history and can produce beautiful melodies that will transport you to a different era. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, there’s something for everyone in this diverse range of products. So, let’s dive into the world of jaw harps, lyre harps, lap harps, and even miniature harps!

The jaw harp, also known as a mouth harp, is an ancient instrument that has been played for centuries. It consists of a metal or bamboo tongue, which the player plucks with their fingers while holding the instrument against their teeth or lips. The MUARO P.Potkin Jaw Harp is housed in a dark wooden case, adding a touch of elegance to this unique instrument. On the other hand, the Schwarz SH-8 Jaw Harp and Grover Jaw Harp offer more individuality with their assorted colors. Regardless of which one you choose, the jaw harp is a simple and portable instrument that can bring joy and entertainment to any gathering.

For those interested in the lyre harp, the Donner DLH-001 is an excellent option for beginners. With its mahogany body, bone saddle, and seven metal strings, this instrument is built to produce a warm and resonant sound. It also comes with a tuning wrench, spare string set, black gig bag, and manual, making it a comprehensive package for those just beginning their musical journey. The lyre harp is reminiscent of instruments used in ancient Greece and is known for its soothing and enchanting melodies.

If you’re interested in a more compact option, the European Expressions Intl Lap Harp Music Maker Toy is a fantastic choice. This miniature version of a lap harp is perfect for children and brings the joy of music to their fingertips. Simply slide the sheet music onto its frame, pluck the strings, and watch as the melodies come to life. With its compact size, it’s an ideal instrument to take on the go or use for relaxation at home.

Lastly, for collectors and enthusiasts, the MILISTEN Miniature Harp Model is a beautiful decorative piece. This wooden harp is intricately crafted and comes with a storage box to protect it. While it may not produce sound like the other harps, it adds an artistic touch to any space and is sure to delight harp lovers of all ages.

In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at each of these harps and jaw harps, discussing their features, sound quality, and overall value. Whether you’re seeking a jaw harp for entertainment, a beginner-friendly lyre harp, a compact lap harp for children, or a miniature decorative harp model, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive into the wonderful world of harps and discover the perfect instrument for you!

MUARO P.Potkin Jaw Harp in Dark Wooden Case

The Jaw Harp by MUARO P.Potkin in Dark Wooden Case, also known as the Mouth Harp, is a unique musical instrument that offers a wide range of creative possibilities. Whether you are an experienced musician or a beginner looking to explore new sounds, this harp is designed to deliver clear and crisp melodies.

We are particularly fond of this Jaw Harp because of its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. Handcrafted by the renowned harp master Pavel Potkin in the Altai Mountains of Russia, this instrument showcases the finest quality that has made Potkin renowned in the field.

The Jaw Harp is designed to provide an immersive musical experience. With its lightweight and portable design, it allows musicians to create captivating melodies on the go. The harp fits comfortably on the lips and fingers, making it accessible to both beginners and children who have no prior musical knowledge or training.

One of the standout features of this harp is its ability to produce a unique variety of sounds. Depending on the player’s breathing technique and movement, the Jaw Harp can produce an incredible range of melodies, allowing for endless exploration and experimentation.

To ensure its durability and longevity, the harp is constructed from high-quality materials such as steel and brass. Additionally, it comes with a protective cedar case and a premium leather cord for easy storage and transport.

In terms of quality, the Jaw Harp by MUARO P.Potkin in Dark Wooden Case stands out from its competitors. Made with precision and craftsmanship, this instrument offers a superior playing experience. Whether you are a professional musician or a hobbyist, this harp is built to withstand the test of time.

Pros:

• Exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail
• Produces clear and crisp sounds
• Easy to use for beginners and children
• Lightweight and portable design
• Durable materials for long-lasting performance

Cons:

• Might require some practice for beginners to fully master the instrument

Donner Lyre Harp 7 Metal Strings, Mahogany Body DLH-001

The Donner Lyre Harp, with its 7 metal strings, is primarily designed for kids and beginner players of all ages. It is a perfect instrument for those who are just starting their musical journey with the harp and want to explore its unique sounds and melodies.

We like the Donner Lyre Harp for its high-quality materials and craftsmanship. The solid mahogany body ensures a clear and gentle sound, while the carbon steel keys add durability to the instrument. Additionally, the bone saddle helps transmit vibrations, preventing the strings from being forced into the wood and maintaining the harp’s tone.

The purpose of the Donner Lyre Harp is to provide a user-friendly instrument for beginners to learn and play the harp. It features seven strings in the classical folk pentatonic mode, covering a range of notes from D4 to E5. Every string is wrapped around a corresponding metal sound column, allowing for easy tuning with the included tuning wrench.

Key features of the Donner Lyre Harp include its ancient Greece style design, making it visually appealing, especially for young players. It also comes with a spare string set, black gig bag for easy transportation, and a comprehensive manual to help beginners get started.

The overall quality of the Donner Lyre Harp is impressive. The solid mahogany body ensures a resonant and warm tone, while the carbon steel keys offer durability for long-lasting playability. The bone saddle helps maintain the instrument’s overall tone and prevents any unwanted string vibrations. The craftsmanship is top-notch, making this harp a reliable choice for beginners.

Pros:

• Solid mahogany body for clear and gentle sound
• Carbon steel keys for durability
• Easy to tune with the included tuning wrench
• Ancient Greece style design for visual appeal
• Comes with spare strings, gig bag, and manual

Cons:

• May be too small for advanced players
• Limited range compared to larger harps

Toy Lap Harp

The European Expressions Intl Lap Harp Music Maker Toy is primarily used for playing beautiful music instantly, making it a perfect instrument for beginners and those without any musical experience.

We love the European Expressions Intl Lap Harp Music Maker Toy because it allows anyone to become a musician effortlessly. With its easy-to-use design, all you need to do is slide a song sheet into the player and pluck the strings to create beautiful melodies. This makes it a fantastic instrument for individuals of all ages and skill levels.

The European Expressions Intl Lap Harp Music Maker Toy is handmade with artisan quality using ash and specially selected hardwoods. This makes each Music Maker unique, as there is no other instrument in the world exactly like it. Additionally, this lap harp comes with 12 pre-loaded songs, a pick, a tuner, and a spare wire. It is also already tuned for immediate enjoyment. For those who want to explore more musical options, a wide variety of additional song sheets are available.

The European Expressions Intl Lap Harp Music Maker Toy is crafted with exceptional workmanship, resulting in a high-quality instrument that produces beautiful and harmonious sounds. Its handmade construction using premium materials ensures durability and longevity, allowing users to enjoy playing it for a long time.

The pros of the European Expressions Intl Lap Harp Music Maker Toy include its ease of use, versatility for therapy and teaching purposes, and simple tuning and maintenance. This lap harp brings joy to schools, nursing homes, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and countless homes worldwide.

However, a potential drawback could be the limited range of songs available initially. Although additional song sheets are available for purchase, some users may prefer a wider selection of included songs.

The European Expressions Intl Lap Harp Music Maker Toy is a delightful and accessible instrument for anyone interested in creating beautiful music effortlessly. Its handmade artisan quality, ease of use, and wide range of applications make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced musicians alike. With the versatility and joy it brings, this lap harp is a perfect musical companion for individuals of all ages and skill levels.

Professional Jews Harp

The Jews Harp, also known as the vargan, is a professional instrument that is primarily used for creating unique and captivating melodies. It is a small and compact instrument, making it perfect for on-the-go musicians or those who want to experiment with different sounds.

We absolutely love the Jews Harp because of its exceptional quality and the outstanding sound it produces. With its loud, clean, and crisp sound, this instrument never fails to captivate both the player and the audience. Its easy handling and playability make it suitable for beginners and professionals alike.

The Jews Harp is designed to produce melodic tones by plucking the metal reed with a finger or a metal pick. It is made with top-quality materials and is handcrafted by professionals to ensure its durability and reliability. The instrument is constructed in a way that allows it to resonate beautifully and produce a clear and vibrant sound.

One of the key features of this Jews Harp is its simplicity in design, which allows for easy handling and playing. Its compact size makes it perfect for carrying around, and it can be played by people of all ages and skill levels.

The Jews Harp’s exceptional quality is evident in its construction and sound production. Crafted by professionals, this instrument is built to last and offers a truly remarkable playing experience. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned musician, you can rely on this Jews Harp to deliver outstanding performance every time.

• Top-quality construction

• Loud, clean, and crisp sound

• Easy handling and playability

• Versatile instrument suitable for various musical genres

• Compact and portable design

• Not everyone may enjoy the unique sound produced by the Jews Harp

• Requires some technique and practice to master playing techniques accurately

The Jews Harp is a top-quality professional instrument that delivers outstanding sound and versatility. Its compact size, durability, and easy playability make it a great choice for musicians of all skill levels. Whether you want to explore new musical horizons or add something unique to your performances, the Jews Harp is sure to impress.

Black SH-8 Jaw Harp – Individually Sold – #8, Different colors

The Schwarz SH-8 Jaw Harp is a unique musical instrument that is primarily used for creating captivating and rhythmic sounds. It can be enjoyed by both beginners and experienced musicians alike.

We are particularly fond of the Schwarz SH-8 Jaw Harp because of its exceptional craftsmanship and outstanding sound quality. It is manufactured from high-quality box-shaped brass and spring steel, ensuring a lifetime of enjoyment. Its half-moon shape with a width of 2 9/16″ (65mm) allows for easy handling and playability.

The Schwarz SH-8 Jaw Harp is one of the oldest musical instruments in the world, dating back centuries. Its purpose is to produce a delightful twanging sound by plucking the vibrating reed with a finger.

Key Features of this jaw harp include its individual design and assorted color options. Each harp is sold individually, allowing users to choose their preferred color. This feature adds a touch of personalization to the instrument, making it even more special.

The overall quality of the Schwarz SH-8 Jaw Harp is exceptional. The high-quality materials used in its construction ensure durability and longevity. Its design and construction allow for easy handling and comfortable playing experience. The sound produced by this harp is clear, crisp, and melodic, captivating the listener with its unique charm.

Pros:

• Exceptional craftsmanship
• High-quality materials ensure durability
• Lifetime enjoyment
• Easy handling and playability
• Captivating and rhythmic sound
• Assorted color options for personalization

Cons:

• Limited availability of color options
• Potential difficulty for beginners to master initially

The Schwarz SH-8 Jaw Harp is a remarkable instrument that stands out for its excellent craftsmanship, durability, and captivating sound. Its individual design and assorted color options allow musicians to personalize this unique instrument. With its melodic twanging sound, the jaw harp is a delightful addition to any musical repertoire. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced musician, the Schwarz SH-8 Jaw Harp is sure to provide endless hours of musical enjoyment.

Grover Jaw Harp

The Grover Jaw Harp (8037) is primarily used as a musical instrument for creating rhythms and melodies. It is suitable for both fun and music education purposes, making it a great choice for enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.

We love the Grover Jaw Harp (8037) because of its compact size and portability. With its dimensions of 5.5″H x 9.5″L x 2.5″W, it can easily be carried around, allowing musicians to have it with them at all times. Whether you’re at home, on a road trip, or jamming with friends, this harp can be conveniently taken along for spontaneous musical moments.

The Grover Jaw Harp (8037) is designed to provide hours of musical enjoyment and learning opportunities. By changing the shape of the mouth or manipulating the player’s tongue, different rhythms and melodies can be created. It encourages creativity and experimentation, enabling musicians to explore various techniques to produce unique sounds.

The harp’s compact size is its standout feature, as it allows for easy storage and transportation. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, the Grover Jaw Harp (8037) offers a versatile and user-friendly instrument for musical expression.

The Grover Jaw Harp (8037) boasts excellent craftsmanship and durability. Made from high-quality materials, it is built to withstand frequent use and deliver reliable performance. Its well-designed construction ensures that the sound produced is clear and resonant, enhancing the overall playing experience.

Pros:

• Compact and portable
• Versatile instrument for creating rhythms and melodies
• Encourages creativity and experimentation
• Suitable for all ages and skill levels
• Crafted from durable materials for long-lasting use

Cons:

• Limited range of tones compared to other harp instruments
• May require some practice to produce desired sounds

The Grover Jaw Harp (8037) is an excellent choice for those looking to delve into the world of harp instruments. Its compact size, durability, and versatility make it a great companion for musical exploration and learning.

Grover Jew’s Harp

The Grover Jews Harp (3492) is a unique musical instrument that is primarily used for plucked idiophone and bourdon music. It produces a buzzing fundamental tone that serves as the foundation for various overtones, making it a perfect choice for folk music, traditional tunes, and even experimental compositions.

The Grover Jews Harp (3492) has impressed us with its exceptional craftsmanship and distinct sound quality. Its sturdy construction ensures durability, and the instrument is easy to play, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced musicians alike. With its beautiful design and captivating sound, it has the power to mesmerize any audience.

The purpose of the Grover Jews Harp (3492) is to provide musicians with a versatile instrument that can add a unique touch to their compositions. Its key features include its soprano range and plucked idiophone and bourdon design. The instrument is designed to produce a buzzing fundamental tone that creates a rich and resonant sound.

The Grover Jews Harp (3492) is compact and lightweight, which makes it easy to carry around. It is also designed with a comfortable grip, allowing musicians to play it effortlessly. Additionally, it comes with a package height of 5 inches, a package length of 9.5 inches, and a package width of 5.5 inches, ensuring that it can be conveniently stored or transported.

The overall quality of the Grover Jews Harp (3492) is outstanding. The instrument is made with precision and attention to detail, ensuring its excellent sound production and durability. Its materials are of high quality, resulting in a long-lasting and reliable instrument that musicians can depend on for years to come.

• Exceptional craftsmanship

• Captivating sound quality

• Suitable for beginners and experts

• Beautiful design

• Easy to play

• May require some practice to master techniques

The Grover Jews Harp (3492) is an excellent choice for musicians seeking an instrument with unique sound qualities and excellent craftsmanship. Its versatility makes it suitable for various musical genres, while its compact size and comfortable grip make it convenient for performances and travel.

MILISTEN Mini Harp Model – Wooden Dollhouse Musical Instrument with Storage Box for Kids & Harp Enthusiasts

The MILISTEN Miniature Harp Model Wooden Harp Instrument is primarily designed as a dollhouse musical instrument for children and harp lovers. It is a miniature version of a traditional harp, allowing individuals to appreciate the beauty of the instrument on a smaller scale.

We appreciate the attention to detail and craftsmanship that has gone into creating the MILISTEN Miniature Harp Model. Its bright colors and intricate ornaments make it an exquisite addition to any living environment, adding a touch of elegance and design sense.

The purpose of the MILISTEN Miniature Harp Model is to provide a realistic and aesthetically pleasing representation of a harp instrument. It is designed to be displayed or used as a decorative item in dollhouses or other miniature settings. The harp model is made of high-quality wood material, ensuring its durability and longevity.

The key features of this miniature harp include its fine workmanship, delicate design, and resistance to fading. It measures approximately 9.00X6.00X1.00cm/3.54X2.36X0.39in, making it a perfect size for children and collectors alike.

The overall quality of the MILISTEN Miniature Harp Model is exceptional. The craftsmanship is evident in the fine details and durable construction of the instrument. The use of high-quality wood material enhances the longevity of the model, ensuring that it remains a beautiful and functional piece for years to come.

Pros:

• Luxurious and eye-catching design with bright colors and intricate ornaments.
• Made of high-quality and durable wood material.
• Perfect size for dollhouses and miniature settings.
• Makes an ideal gift for family, friends, and children who appreciate harp instruments.

Cons:

• Limited functionality as it is primarily designed for display purposes rather than actual playing.

The MILISTEN Miniature Harp Model Wooden Harp Instrument is a delightful addition to any dollhouse or miniature collection. Its luxurious design, durability, and attention to detail make it a favorite among harp lovers and individuals who appreciate finely crafted musical instruments. Whether used as a decorative item or gifted to a loved one, this miniature harp brings a touch of elegance and beauty to any setting.

Comparison of Product Specifications

Product	Manufacturer	Material	Number of Strings	Size	Special Features
Jaw Harp by MUARO P.Potkin	MUARO P.Potkin	Steel, Brass, Cedar, Leather	N/A	Compact	Handcrafted in Altai Mountains
Donner Lyre Harp	Donner	Mahogany, Carbon Steel, Bone	7	Small	Easy to tune, designed for kids and beginners
European Expressions Intl Lap Harp Music Maker Toy	European Expressions	Ash, Hardwoods	N/A	N/A	Handmade, includes 12 songs, easy to tune
Jews Harp, Vargan, Professional, Schwarz SH-8 Jaw Harp – Individual – #8, Assorted color	Schwarz	Brass, Spring Steel	N/A	Half-moon shaped	Loud and clean sound, easy to handle and play
Grover Jaw Harp (8037)	Grover	Brass, Spring Steel	N/A	N/A	Great for music education, compact size
Grover Jews Harp (3492)	Grover	N/A	N/A	N/A	Soprano jaw harp with buzzing fundamental tone
MILISTEN Miniature Harp Model	MILISTEN	Wood	N/A	Miniature size	Luxurious design, ideal gift

Conclusion

In conclusion, the review for the eight harp products has provided valuable insights into their features and performance. Each product has its own strengths and drawbacks that cater to different audiences.

Jaw Harp by MUARO P.Potkin in Dark Wooden Case (Mouth Harp)

The jaw harp by MUARO P.Potkin offers a high-quality construction and a durable dark wooden case. Its beautiful design and solid sound make it a great choice for enthusiasts and professional players.

Donner Lyre Harp, 7 Metal Strings, Mahogany Body and Bone Saddle DLH-001

The Donner Lyre Harp combines a stunning mahogany body and bone saddle with seven metal strings, providing a soothing and melodic sound. It comes with various accessories, making it an excellent choice for beginner kids looking to explore the enchanting world of music.

European Expressions Intl Lap Harp Music Maker Toy

Perfect for children, the European Expressions Intl Lap Harp Music Maker Toy introduces kids to music in a fun and interactive way. The toy offers a simplistic design and produces sweet melodies, but it may not satisfy the demands of more advanced players.

Jews Harp, Vargan, Professional, Schwarz SH-8 Jaw Harp – Individual – #8, Assorted color

The Jews Harp, Vargan, Professional, Schwarz SH-8 Jaw Harp is a high-quality instrument that offers professional sound and performance. Its assorted colors provide an element of uniqueness, making it perfect for collectors or individuals looking to experiment with different sounds.

Grover Jaw Harp (8037)

The Grover Jaw Harp (8037) presents a versatile and budget-friendly option. Its adjustable playing end allows players to modify the sound according to their preference. However, some users may find the construction less durable compared to other options.

Grover Jews Harp (3492)

Similar to the Grover Jaw Harp, the Grover Jews Harp (3492) is a more affordable option with a decent sound quality. It is an ideal choice for beginners or casual players who want to explore the instrument without spending too much money.

MILISTEN Miniature Harp Model Wooden Harp Instrument Dollhouse Musical Instrument Mini Harp

The MILISTEN Miniature Harp Model is a charming dollhouse musical instrument that will captivate children and harp enthusiasts alike. Its wooden construction and storage box make it an excellent collector’s item or gift for young music lovers.

Recommendation

Based on the review, the Donner Lyre Harp, 7 Metal Strings, Mahogany Body and Bone Saddle DLH-001 stands out as a great choice for beginner kids. It offers a beautiful design, quality construction, and comes with essential accessories. Additionally, it provides ample room for growth and learning as children progress in their musical journey.

However, for more experienced players or collectors interested in professional sound, the Jews Harp, Vargan, Professional, Schwarz SH-8 Jaw Harp – Individual – #8, Assorted color is recommended. Its high-quality construction, unique assortment of colors, and professional sound make it a perfect choice for creating captivating melodies.

In the end, the decision of which harp to choose depends on the specific needs and preferences of the individual. Whether it’s for beginners, children, enthusiasts, or professionals, there is a harp on this list that will cater to their musical desires and bring joy through the enchanting sounds it produces.