Finding a tuner you trust can transform both your sound and your sanity in the practice room. In this in-person tutor chat, Heather and Angela compare two Peterson strobe models and share what actually made a difference to tuning accuracy and workflow on lever and pedal harp. Expect plain-spoken pros/cons, real-world setup tips, and a few “wish I’d known this sooner” moments.

In this episode:

• What makes Peterson’s “harp sweeteners” different (and when to use them)

• Freestanding HDC vs clip-on: accuracy, usability, and portability

• The steep learning curve (and how to cut tuning time back down)

• Dealing with overtones, noise, and where to clip/place your tuner

• Price points and value: when the investment is worth it

• Bonus on the HDC: built-in metronome, visual cues, and stage visibility

• Why your ear still matters (and how to pair ear checks with a tuner)

Watch to the end to leave with a clearer, calmer tuning routine that helps your harp ring true, and frees up more time for actual playing!

Host: Heather Downie - Harpist, Principal Scottish Harp Tutor at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, and founder of How To Harp

Guest: Angela Boraston - Harp Tutor at How To Harp

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An inspiring look into the world of jazz harp with professional harpist Amanda Whiting. Amanda shares her journey from growing up in Wales, discovering the harp at the age of five, and blending her classical roots with her lifelong love of pop and jazz. Her reflections on practice, creativity, and balance offer both encouragement and insight for harpists at every stage of their musical path.

In this episode:

• Discover how Amanda first fell in love with the harp

• The challenge of bridging classical training with jazz freedom

• Lessons from studying and performing at Ronnie Scott’s

• Finding time for creativity while balancing life and family

• What Amanda learned about rhythm, confidence, and self-expression

• Advice for harpists on staying consistent and practicing with intention

Host: Heather Downie — Harpist, Principal Scottish Harp Tutor at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, and founder of How To Harp

Guest: Amanda Whiting — Jazz Harpist, Composer & Recording Artist

Enjoying the show? New episodes weekly.

Follow / subscribe and share with a harp friend.

Learn with us: 👉 https://www.HowToHarp.com (membership, courses, retreats)

#HowToHarp #HarpTips #HeatherDownieHarpist #JazzHarp #PracticeWithIntention

A thoughtful and inspiring episode for harp learners at every stage. Discover practical advice on how to make progress, structure your practice, and find motivation when things feel slow. Heather also answers listener questions on technique, sound, and keeping your playing creative and enjoyable.

In this episode:

• The three questions harp learners ask most

• How to know what to work on to improve

• Building a balanced and enjoyable practice routine

• Fixing buzzes, tension, and technical issues

• Breaking through learning plateaus

• Adding emotion and polish to your pieces

• Easy ways to make your tunes sound spooky for Halloween

• Motivation and perspective for adult harp learners

Host: Heather Downie - Harpist, Principal Scottish Harp Tutor at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, and founder of How To Harp

Enjoying the show? New episodes weekly.

Follow/subscribe and share with a harp friend.

Learn with us:

https://www.HowToHarp.com (membership, courses, retreats)

#HowToHarp #HarpTips #HeatherDownieHarpist #HarpQandA #AdultLearners