The main point I would make is that at least a few lessons, early on, will get
a new harper on the right path. Of course we're not all going to be
professionals or recording artists or whatever -- I certainly am not! But I
think I benefited greatly from being shown hand and finger positions and how
to approach fingering for harp music, etc. A certain number of lessons early,
and occasional "tune ups" and guidance, are of great value. Even more
important is that knowing how to sit, to hold arms, hands, and fingers, and
how to play, WILL PREVENT INJURY. Not all teachers approach technique that
way; they may approach it more from achieving the right "effect", both in
terms of tone and graceful appearance. So it is also important to try to find
a teacher with an approach and attitude compatible with yours.
There are probably many people who have a love of music that they feel is
stifled by formal study. That may be an undercurrent in resistance to advice
to get lessons. But you don't have to pursue lessons that way! You can be in
charge and be clear with your teacher what you want out of the relationship!
Still, I stand firm with the position that if at all possible, beginners
should get at least a few lessons from a more accomplished harper.
Eliot