Harp Notes

Border Harps

July 2004

After days of internet searching I kept coming back to Border Harps. I knew that my budget was going to be limited, and the reasonable prices certainly appealed. Plus, Border Harps have been mentioned by several sites as being affordable, consistent and professional, and I felt really drawn to the differing styles of harp. I made a few enquiries by phone and email and was really impressed by the prompt and friendly replies. I became even more impressed.

A very well timed re-enactment event meant that I was only an hour away from Mick's workshop, and so on a wonderfully warm Saturday evening, smelling of wood smoke and still dressed in medieval kit, T and I drove to Letton.

Border Harps is situated in a beautiful rural area, surrounded by trees, halfway up what felt like an unused country track! We were both struck immediately by Mick's friendly approach and greeting. Walking into his workshop I was hit by the evocative smell of new wood and sawdust - it took me back to childhood memories of being with a beloved Grandfather as he worked . . .

Mick had kindly kept back two of his completed harps for me to view. I thought that was incredibly generous and I want to thank those two unknown harpers who had to wait an extra couple of days for their instruments. I really appreciated it. By comparing sizes, weights and designs I was able to make a decision. Strangely, from viewing the website I had thought I would prefer the knee harp, but when it came down to it, I actually fell in love with the Wye design.

T and I discussed the merits of getting the kit version. Mick was able to show us what it consisted of and whilst T (who would have been the actual builder) was certainly competent enough, he doesn't own enough tools especially D clamps etc. Weighing up the cost of buying and storage of even more tools in the household, over purchasing a partially built harp, we decided it more prudent to spend the extra on an almost complete instrument. I would still be able to decorate her, and get to be part of the finishing process which I felt was enough to begin to bond with my newest harp.

Mick was a wonderful host, very patient and considerate. I didn't feel he tried to blind us with science or talk down to me which I admit I was dreading, and it was in part his warm and helpful attitude that endeared me to purchasing a Border Harp. The rest of course was the tone and beauty of the instruments that he creates.

And so, after about an hour of chatting I ordered the small 26 string Wye. I was thoroughly delighted with my decision and now only had the excruciating wait of a few weeks to go through . . .