It is important to try out different types of harp. Some people choose by the sound of the harp, others by the shape of it.
Camac, Salvi, and Lyons & Healy are makers of a semi-industrial type of harp, these makers are not based in Ireland.
In Ireland all harps are handmade, and this means time: it takes approximately one month to make a harp. This is the reason why harps are more expensive than most other traditional instruments. Nevertheless, the good news is that once you buy a full-size harp, you will be able to play it all your life. Take your time before buying a harp: you could consider renting one for a little while, or buying a “small’ harp (26 string).
FOR THE TOTAL BEGINNER (child or adult): I would recommend a 26-string harp with levers (minimum lever F and lever C), and then wait for a few years before investing in a bigger harp. The 26-string harp is easy to carry and is good enough for you to play thousands of tunes from the Celtic-Irish tradition, and even a few classical or popular tunes.
WANT A BIGGER HARP (full-size harp)?: here in Ireland, you have a “student” harp with 32 strings full levered, or a “professional” harp with 34 strings full levered.
BUYING A HARP: if buying online, you need to see and hear the harp before your purchase, or to meet the seller. Some harps appear very cheap but it is always best to verify with your teacher as to whether or not they are good enough! A harp should be sold with its harp bag and a tuning key, and for the 26-string, with a stand.
A FEW HARP MAKERS IN IRELAND:
Co Galway: Callan’s Harps : http://callanharps.com
Co Kerry: Killarney Harps : https://killarneyharps.com/contact/
Co Cork: Harrington Harps : https://harringtonharps.ie
Consult : https://onlineharpcourses.aislingurwin.com/harpmakersinireland
SECOND-HAND HARPS: ask any of the above-mentioned harp makers, they may have some; ask Harp Ireland: https://www.harpireland.ie; if buying online, verify with a harp teacher.
Hopefully you will find what you want!
Blossom Harp 