I want to share a bit more about my recent harp string break. In the previous blog post, I mentioned it sounds like a bomb goes off in my living room when a string breaks. As I reflect on that, I find it paradoxical that a “bomb can go off” for this magnificent instrument of great peace. Perhaps it’s the paradox of the strings’ tension and by playing the tense strings, out comes peace, relaxation, healing, etc. (This is true especially when the instrument is played with this intention of peace.)

The other thing that occurs when a string breaks is it creates a big gap or hole in the string line-up. (I would liken this to if you’ve ever had a tooth removed and it leaves a big, gaping hole in your mouth!) With this hole or gap, then I have to work around the missing string. This requires two things:

  1. It is a brain activity where I have to constantly think, “My ___ string is missing so I have to do a work-around.” For example, when my “D” string broke, this impacts a G major chord (G B D) or a D minor chord (D F A) if I’m playing in the key of C. So, depending on what I’m playing I have to improvise around the missing note. Obviously, if it’s in the bass or played primarily with the left hand, this is likely easier to work around vs. when it’s a melody note (primarily played in the right hand). Consequently, when a string breaks, it is easier to play non-familiar music rather than familiar music with a specific melody and accompanying chords.
  2. It is also a physical sensation of the gaping hole. When I forget the string is missing, it feels like my finger/hand falls into a hole! It can be frustrating but if I can find the humor and smile, it makes it easier to work with the short-term issue of the missing string.

Finally, with this recent string break, as a professional harpist, one of my jobs is to work around string breaks. While I much prefer have a fully strung harp in working order, I can do this! As they say, the show must go on!! And in case you’re interested, Lyon & Healy in Chicago is my string vendor … and I am very grateful to them! 🙂

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