Aklot 16 String Lyre Harp DEMO & Free play : Maria Calfa-DePaul

[@shannondepaul2007]

That was an excellent and informative video Maria. I really enjoyed it and found it very educational!!! Keep up the good work.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

awe! Thanks so much. I appreciate that!! :)

[@corneliaomir]

I don't know why I'm here but you seem like such a nice person, like someone I would like to drink a tea with

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Cornelia Omir that is so so sweet of you to say. I’m so glad you feel that way. My late mom and I used to love sitting and having tea with each other. If you can subscribe to my channel thanks!!

[@cmasseylynch]

Psychologists tell us that the harp sound has a tremendously calming effect on people. Thanks for this ,have just bought one.x

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Awesome that is really cool to hear. It is super calming glad you bought it and i am going to take mine out to play. Perfect for this crisis the world is going through. Blessings. And use yours in good health!

[@cmasseylynch]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul Thank you Maria. bless.

[@doe126]

I really want to buy one for the same reasons

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Space Moogle i hope you are able to make that happen :)

[@perfectwillmedia2503]

I just stumbled on you Maria. I had a dream where l was asking someone to teach me how to play an instrument. What l saw behind him was a shinny, beautiful, wooden guitar-like, (but not guitar) instrument. I woke up searching for this type but l didn't see anything like that. After asking God to show me where he's leading me, l opened my bible portion for today and I'm to study psalm 33 and vs 2 reads, " praise the lord with the harp, make music on the ten stringed lyre, sing to him a new song" . So l started searching for harp and lyre and behold l saw in the lyre harp almost exactly what the lord showed me. I'll be staying with you for a long time because l must learn how it functions and prayerfully I'll be playing it someday soon by Gods . Thank you Maria.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

wow that’s really cool. i hope you are able to get one and fulfill your dreams.

[@emersoncook1254]

You remind me of my musical aunt in the best way possible. Thank you so much for this review

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Awe that is such a nice thing to say. Thank you 😊

[@Trishy1234]

Beautiful Maria thankyou......Thinking of buying one. God's music, heavenly. Blessings to you 🙏

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thanks so much!! I hope you get one. Blessings to you too 😘

[@kathrynphipps2529]

Miss Maria thank you for the video of the 16 string Lyre Harp I just got one and you have helped me to feel so much better about my purchase I was not real sure that I had made a good choice but now I am much happier. Now all I have to do is learn to tune and play it ......

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

so glad you liked the video and that it helped you feel more at ease with your purchase. Enjoy playing! and I hope it brings you much happiness!!

[@Iceland874]

I built a dulcimer and a balalaika in high school. I purchased this lyre last July. I tuned it once and it stayed in perfect pitch for a long time. Even now its close and I only played it recently after letting it sleep for 6 months. I really love it but got into international bamboo flutes recently and purchased a mandolin 3 weeks ago. I sharped the F and put it in GM. I can back for a refresher course. So thankful for your videos.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

I’m so glad that you are into music. Too and don’t worry it will be there when you get back into it. That’s the beauty of all these instruments. Thanks again for all your kind words. 😄

[@noggin86]

Great video! I just bought one :) Excited to receive it and start playing!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Awesome !! Glad you liked the video and I hope you have years of enjoyment with you lyre!!

[@rooseveltdumornay4954]

I love what you do. Thank you so much for this video. You've introduce me to an instrument I knew absolutely nothing about. It sounds amazing.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Awe thanks so much. Glad you enjoyed it

[@thebardmare4459]

Been looking for a good lyre for a while, thanks for making such a good video!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Lyricalpone oh you are welcome. Would love to have you as a subscriber. :)

[@kenanjabr1992]

Thank you! I was on the fence about purchasing this, but you’ve convinced me. Sounds great! Big plus that it has a pick up!!! Can’t wait to get into this instrument!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Kenan Jabr congrats. I hope you love it and much a do!! Enjoy

[@carmenlandry2052]

Thanks very much for sharing with us the information and your love of this instrument.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Oh you’re very welcome. Glad you enjoyed the video

[@duoitinerance6598]

Very interesting. I like your video a lot, I think I will buy this instrument in a few days. Musical thoughts from France : Christian ❤

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

@@duoitinerance6598 thanks so much and I’m so glad you enjoyed the video. Let me know how you like the instrument. Take care from the USA 💕

[@robitississimo]

Thanks for this Madamè! I hope I'd get to master the Lyre Harp one day, oh one day perhaps.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Keep playing that’s all that matters. Enjoy

[@musicalmiscellany]

This looks like a fun little instrument. Aklot seems to be making some pretty nice and affordable instruments in the harp family.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Yes I totally agree. I want to do another video with just playing this lyre harp because it really has a pretty sound.

[@rooseveltdumornay4954]

It sounds lovely

[@Bobjacob1954]

It’s funny to see my three birds go quiet listening to your music. They like it!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Awe that’s so cool!! Thanks for watching and letting me know :)

[@Halichika]

I just got this type of Lyre yesterday and am so excited to start playing. Lovely informational video!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

awesome~~ i'm so happy you got it. Enjoy~~ thanks for your kind words on my video and thanks for watching and commenting~ ::)

[@Jazzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz]

Brilliant demonstration, Maria! This is the exact make of Lyre I've been considering buying, and I was curious how it would sound with its dish-like sound box. I've never seen that on an instrument before.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Jaz thanks so much. Glad you enjoyed it!n hope you are able to get one and experience it first hand. Very soothing.

[@danieljclark5922]

Thank you so much for this lovely video!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Awe thank you for watching. Glad you liked it

[@pietrodonz8272]

Very interesting video! Thanks!😊😊👍👍

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Glad you liked it !

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thanks for watching!!

[@artofshamanicmeditation88]

Thank you for making such a wonderful in depth video I just bought this and I’m so glad that it contributed to a need. I didn’t receive a runner but it’s okay I will buy one. You make it sound so beautiful I’m so happy. My live for harps have been a child good dream of mine. I can’t afford a Harp like I want I started taking classes for Crystal bowls, native drums, my instructor has a harp and it is so beautiful but I can’t afford that one for now. And have no idea how to play one but now you have made me so excited that I have bought this one. Thank you....

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

I am so happy for you. I hope you get many years of enjoyment and peace when you play it. Thank you for your kind words about my video. Blessings to you !

[@artofshamanicmeditation88]

Maria Calfa-DePaul 🥰

[@teddkitt]

Thank you so much for this video. I always wanted to learn how to play the harp.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Oh you're welcome. Glad you liked the video and I hope you get to start this journey. :)

[@baltimorejoy]

I loved your video Maria. It was the kind of break in the day I needed. Like everything will be alright. Well, I am interested in buying a lyre harp for myself for Christmas, and now I know which one to buy. Thank you.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Awe thanks so much. I know it's been a real rough year and I do think music helps. It has helped me!! May you use it in good health!!

[@kathryncarson9295]

Thank you Maria, how helpful, and kind you are! You make me feel that I could produce something harmonious from this instrument.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Kathryn Carson oh you are welcome and I am sure you will be able to play and enjoy this instrument for as long as you desire !! :)

[@johnoehling6309]

To listen to the tune of each string 7:54

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thanks

[@colson8327]

Thank you so much! I purchased the 16 string a few months ago but didn't quite know what all to do with it. Sounds like we have lots in common but you have more talent. My son and I both gravitate to folk style instruments. I started out with classical guitar when I was young. Now I have the Aklot lyre, a bowed psaltery, 2 dulcimers and several Irish whistles. I don't play any well but they make me happy. My son is more talented than me. He inherited his musical skills from his dad. If I had the funds I would buy a hammered dulcimer and a Celtic harp. 🤔😊

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thanks so much for your kind words. And I always say it doesn’t matter how good you are playing an instrument but how good it makes you feel to play it. How awesome too that you can share that with your son. One of my sons is a musician as well but since he’s all grown up and living on his own we don’t get to jam as often as we used to! Enjoy all your instruments and thanks for watching my video! Subscribe if you can. :)

[@colson8327]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul I love your responses to all of your followers. I read them all! So happy to have discovered you here on KZbin.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

@@colson8327 thank you so much!!

[@LawnMowerTipVideos]

I was hesitant on buying one until I watched this video, just bought the same one. Thank you 😁

[@trangl.m.3379]

HeavyMetal420xx hi, i am also interested in buying one so i want to ask have you got yours yet and what it is like trying out the strings (do they sound nice?)

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

that's great to hear. hope you love it!

[@LawnMowerTipVideos]

Yes I enjoy it, I have the same exact one Maria has the Aklot, the strings are very touchy when it comes to tuning but eventually it will become easier as the strings will begin to stay in tune longer and not be so touchy. Mine came with an extra set of strings, a nice soft felt type bag cleaning cloth and a pick up for using an amp

[@LawnMowerTipVideos]

@@trangl.m.3379 😃

[@trangl.m.3379]

@@LawnMowerTipVideos thank you for the reply, very helpfull information

[@davidguillory1312]

Wonderful video! I was recently thinking about getting a lyre as I want to learn a stringed instrument (I'm normally a drummer). I have a mountain dulcimer which I plan on learning to play...but need to work on building the fingertips for fretting the notes, and teaching the left hand how to change positions on the strings. A lyre would probably be much easier for me to learn and make music with. Thank you for making this video.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

David Guillory you’re welcome. And yes it’s lovely but I want to let yon know that I Have a Facebook group I started almost 5 years ago when I discovered the dulcimer by accident. We now have over 3000 members and there are so many helpful people. ;renowned teachers and even luthiers that belong. Would love for you to join if you are on Facebook. It’s a kind wonderful group. I’ll get the link for you. It’s called Discovering Dulcimers. :)

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

David Guillory here’s the link. facebook.com/groups/Dulcimer/?ref=share. (My friend and admin will let you in but you have to just answer a few simple questions to prevent spam etc) take care and much success in whatever you play. :)

[@chrischausse2819]

thanks for this great review

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thanks so much !

[@cindypollard7972]

Thanks for sharing!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

@@cindypollard7972you’re welcome and thanks for watching.

[@elverlightmusic2782]

This was SUPER helpful. There isn't a lot of lyre content on KZbin but this video explained so much. I've been wanting a lyre for a long time but there isn't really anything that ships to Denmark. I have found 2 on Amazon though so I might be getting one soon.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Yeah that is great about possibly getting one soon. You will love it!! And thanks for your kind words about my video :) glad you found it helpful!!

[@elverlightmusic2782]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul omg it arrived today and I love it ♡´･ᴗ･`♡

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Elverlight Kalimba oh good. I am so happy that it lived up to your expectations!! :)

[@julianlo7418]

Thank you so much for taking the time to make this beautiful review

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Awe thanks so much !!

[@tibfox]

great review and beatiful improvisatin ! Thank you

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

You’re welcome. Thanks so much for your kind words. :)

[@katiec7737]

I love your video and your improvisation! Well wishes to you and happy holidays.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thanks so much. I really appreciate it !

[@QBkitsune]

Thank you very very much for your informative and inspiring video! Well. now I really WANT such an instrument...

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

oh thanks so much for watching and for letting me know! I do appreciate that. if you can subscribe that would be great!

[@QBkitsune]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul I'll do it with great pleasure! :-)

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

@@QBkitsune thanks!!

[@saraaronzon4562]

I sent play an instrument but I loved your video so helpful in relaxing and soothing

[@saraaronzon4562]

Sorry don't play an instrument

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

@@saraaronzon4562 that's okay I understood what you meant and thank you so much !

[@pixpusher]

Really good overview. I am glad you didn't do an unboxing. You just get to the point :-)

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Ha h he’s had done plenty of those. Lol 😂 and you are right sometimes it’s nice to just get down to business !! :)and thanks for watching and your kind words!

[@zheka-king228]

Не смотря на то, что я не знаю английский, благодаря субтитрам я все понял. Спасибо субтитры и спасибо тебе Мария.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

I wish I understood what you wrote? thanks for watching~

[@susanvermeza1]

Thank you. I have many guitars, no talent, now bad hands. I am going to get this and have high hopes.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Awe I'm sure you will do great and I bet you have plenty of talent because all you need is the drive and you have that !! Good luck and thanks for watching

[@angelderek5972]

Great video, I’ll be getting this in the mail soon

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Kevin Derek great!!! I hope you enjoy it and love it as much as I do!! Congrats and thanks for watching and subscribing !!

[@Warrior-cd2sf]

Thank you, I have been wanting one for over a year, but just didn't know which one would be good for me, with so many different ones on the market. I just ordered one like yours, looking forward to when it arrives.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Warrior awesome. I’m sure you will like it and Aklot is a great company to work with should there be any issues. Enjoy !!

[@curtism7409]

Just watched your other video with the 7 string. I want one! Thanks for this very informative video!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

thank you so much!! I really appreciate it!

[@jmha2428]

I loved your personality. Im a guitarist but i love collecting all kinds of instruments especially stringed ones, im also interested in these lyres for my aunt who has been in mourning for some time. Your video was helpful. Think ill look for the 16 string range Lyres, definitely has more options. Thank you. Subbed

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

JMH thank you so much. I bet she will love it. Blessings to you and her and thank you for subbing and your kind words!! :)

[@rexcotys7060]

GOD BLESS-YOU, MARIA! BE HAPPY!...

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thank you and you as well!

[@mspenelope6874]

Really beautiful and informative, thank you Maria, for helping me make a purchase decision.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

thanks so much. I truly appreciate it. Hope you can subscribe to my channel! :)

[@sandalfon10]

have you bought it and used it?

[@stevesstrings5243]

That is really interesting! Thanks for introducing it!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Steve's Strings oh so happy you liked it!

[@tanvigawde1612]

Beautiful!! Thank you for the demo! Do you have a link to purchase this beauty?

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thanks so much Here is the link I am not an affiliate but if you get a chance to let Aklot know you saw my video that would be great. I haven’t heard from them in a while lol 😅

[@fatimagomezarias5879]

Wow!! It was very useful. Thanks!! :)

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Fatima Gomez Arias I’m so glad to hear that !

[@bromixsr]

This seems to be a common tuning for several "world" instruments. I have a pan flute in G mixolydian, and a harp in C mixolydian.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

hmmm cool beans!!

[@jillrossiter8757]

Sounds greatxx

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

ThNsk so much!!

[@KingdomChild]

Such an informative and helpful review! Thank you 💕 Definitely considering purchasing one of these. My only regret with it is that I wish it was beautifully carved. There are so many beautiful lyre harps, but the prettier ones seem to be the lowest quality, and sound is definitely more important than looks. I love the variety of melodies that the 16 string allows. Your playing is so peaceful to listen to!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thanks so much. I’m so glad you liked the video and found it helpful. I have also found the same dilemma with most guitars I have played : the simplest looking one sound the most beautiful! Thank you again and hope you get one. Very calming :)

[@KingdomChild]

Maria Calfa-DePaul I actually bought one last night shortly after watching this!🙂 I have been looking at different ones and considering purchasing one for awhile, and your video sealed the deal for me. The sound and the price were both good on this one. I am so excited to get it and learn how to play it! This is my first ever “harp”, but I have wanted to try one for many years. I didn’t know lyres existed until recently, but I kind of fell in love with them once I learned of them. By the way, you should consider becoming an Amazon affiliate for this video! I don’t know if you know about it...just Google search it, and it tells you how to become one. Basically, you apply through Amazon, put a link in your description box to the item on Amazon, and then when anyone who clicks on your link buys one, you get a small commission. If you had one, you would’ve earned commission from me last night, as I bought one from Amazon. :) Just a friendly suggestion for you because your review really did help me choose this harp and be confident about my purchase. There seems to be a painful lack of thorough lyre harp reviews on YT. Your video seems to be getting enough traffic that you might make a few $ if you do that. :)

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Kingdom Child that is so nice of you to say and I’m so happy for you about getting the harp. Yeah I’ve heard of it but never sure how to go about it etc. but you might be right as this video seems to be getting a lot of views lol. Thank you for the suggestion.

[@RuthSecretario]

Well explained. Tnx for this

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thanks so much!

[@joannemiranda8879]

Great video, very inspiring. I hope to get one soon.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

thank you so much. I hope you do as well!

[@Original50]

An e-lyre!? Mind blown!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thanks for watching :)

[@jimwest3363]

I just ordered the exact same one and I'm anxious to try using a slide with it. I hope I will be able to make mine sound as beautiful as you do.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Jim West oh i am so happy for you! Use it in good health. I would love to see a video with the slide. That is a cool idea and thank you for your kind words.

[@obbieray78]

Very good video. You explain things well and I easily understand. What other instruments to you play?

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thanks so much for watching. I play the Native American Flute, the Mountain Dulcimer, guitar and Ukulele and some piano and synths and tongue drums. Glad you like my video. If you go into my play lists yuh can view my different videos according to genres. Etc. Take care

[@obbieray78]

I am going to do just that! Keep them coming!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

@@obbieray78 thanks so much !

[@neoneapolitan2122]

11:15 sounds like the intro to _You Get What You Give_ by New Radicals

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

cool I have never heard of the song or the band so I guess "great minds think a like" lol...but seriously I like to hear all kinds of music so I will search them and the song on spotify!! thanks for watching!!

[@thiahamilton221]

I just received mine, however stupid me didn't get the tuner! So I just ordered it today! 😉 So please to have the instrument of my ancestor in the Scriptures!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thia Hamilton enjoy and yes a tuner will make your life much easier. :)

[@Shannon_ODonnell]

Nice! I have one on the way soon! Same harp as you have here I think.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

awesome I hope it is because it's super sweet. Enjoy!!

[@donnaparks1919]

Got my lyre and just got it tuned 16 string celtic

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Donna Parks cool what is that tuning? Could you share the tuning? Thanks

[@charlies1550]

Just for clarification, the F# does NOT give you A min; it gives you Gmaj or Emin. The tuning you have, with all naturals, is Cmaj and Amin. Has a good sound. Mine is due for delivery tomorrow, and I'm really looking forward to it.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

You mis heard me. I never said Am. I said if you turned the F strings to F sharp you would be in the key of G major or E minor. Thank you for watching

[@maryl.7226]

Hi Maria! Love your review and love this sweet, portable little harp! Three questions if you have time... 1. Have you tried putting the pickup on center back? If so, how was it? 2. Is your amp a Roland Mobile acoustic, or...? Can it run on batteries for playing in places where you need something small and may not have an outlet? 3. If it can run on batteries, any chance you could do a brief review on it, playing your dulcimer if possible? Thank you and a thousand blessings!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thanks so much. KZbin says I haven't responded to this comment which I could have sworn I did. But none the less. No I haven't had too much time to experiment with it. I did you a roland Mobile cube but it has since "fritzed" out. So I have been using an inexpensive amp by Muggig. So far so good~ good luck~

[@Vmpyra]

Thanks for showing I’m about to buy it :D

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

I hope you enjoy yours!!

[@fredyrenaitre]

thank you!!!!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

fredyrenaitre you’re welcome!!

[@LizaLavolta]

You play beautifully (:

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

LizaLavolta awe thank you so much!

[@miguelaponte4899]

This is such a great video! I really really want this but they are out of stock on Amazon 😭😭 I'll probably keep coming back to your video till I can get it

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Miguel Aponte awe thanks so much and hopefully they will get in stock soon!

[@kittycay2145]

They are back in stock! I just got one

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Karla Castillo awesome to hear!!

[@EVENINGWOLF666]

This has absolutely made my mind up...but there is one little hitch in the get along...finding music for this instrument...I can find a lot of music for larger harps (lever, pedal and concert style) but almost nothing for this style where can I find sheet music for this instrument...it would do me little good to buy one (which I have absolutely decided I want) if I cannot find music to play...even instructional materials seemed geared towards fold or concert style harps and not the lyre...it is most frustrating...

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Oh I totally understand your frustration. I hope you can find some good material soon. I do improvisation so it doesn’t effect me much but I play other instruments and enjoy having written material to use! Good luck and enjoy your music :)

[@EVENINGWOLF666]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul I'm mostly looking to use it as to accompany vocals, but I was hoping for at least some instructional material on proper fingering and technique...

[@artiveiiartist]

Thank you so much for sharing this. This is a very great video, I love it I received it today, I searched on the aklot website for instructions for use. And for sheets. But I could'nt find it. Do you have a sugestion for me, all the best.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thanks so much for commenting and the kind words. I really don't know about the sheets as I do mostly improv. Maybe contact aklot. And I hope you enjoy your harp!

[@artiveiiartist]

Thank you for your reaction. That is what I do to improvise. I will try to contact Aklot.

[@TinyJolly]

Trying to find this harp, stumbled across you, epic btw. Curious where I could find one.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Jolly Holly i think they are still available on Amazon but they are made by a company called aklot. They have a Facebook group and are very responsive!

[@flauschigart968]

Thank you for this video :D What tuner do you use to tune your lyre?

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Usually use my iPhone Tuneable app

[@andreadee5036]

Hi, Maria, I just got this delivered today from Amazon after getting a harp and remembering from the piano lessons of my childhood that I am not good at doing two different things with my hands at the same time! This is so much less frustrating for me! This lyre is going to be my only stringed effort for a while! As a beginner, I really enjoyed this video and the pace you maintained through it. I was wondering... I want to get a small amp just for it. What do you suggest? I am admittedly CLUELESS in California. Thank you!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

so happy to hear that you will be playing this wonderful little instrument. I like a couple of different amps. One is the small Roland Mobile Cube and the other is the small Blackstar Fly. Both can be operated by battery or wall. However I do have a very inexpensive rechargeable one which I like but I don't see it for sale on AMazon anymore. It was a "MUGIG" but if you search you may find something similar and if you get Prime then usually there is no cost to return should it not work out for you!! goodluck! :)

[@andreadee5036]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul Thank you so much! I truly appreciate your time today.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Andrea Dee anytime :)

[@marx992]

Beautiful! Can you tell me a good economical amplifier for it?

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thanks so much. I have an alto rechargeable amp that I really like. It’s very quiet and it has two inputs and and even an aux input for another device and also it has an out so if you wanted to record the instruments to a different device.

[@mylic]

Hi Maria, i am looking forward to learn how to play this little harp. Do you have some good links, books or videos for beginners? Thank you!

[@deni-gibbs]

Ditto..what Mylena Reid said

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

hey I honestly just play by ear. Try googling it or looking at youtube and seeing what others do even if they don't look the same as long as they are tuned similarly then you can copy that or try to do what they do. don't be afraid to experiment. :)

[@tajbell4086]

Hi Maria I just got my lyre harp today and I was wondering if you would consider doing a tuning tutorial

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Yes I could do one. I have a commitment for another video but as soon as I finish that I will try and make one for you ! :)

[@tajbell4086]

Thanks so much!

[@keefmeister77]

Hello, Rich Davis sent me here. You seem to be like me, interested in almost any musical instrument you can get your hands on, I see you have many that I have including this one. You're a much better player than I am, though.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

KeefTheUkuleleRobot awe that’s great. Rich is such a wonderful person ! And yes you are correct music is such a passion. And it doesn’t even matter the skill level it’s how it makes you feel!! Keep on playing and I hope you can subscribe and watch some of my other videos. Thank you for letting me know how you found me :)

[@keefmeister77]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul have already subscribed and am watching some of your vids, very enjoyable, hopefully you can find some time to watch some of mine, later.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

KeefTheUkuleleRobot absolutely !!! Will enjoy that very much !!

[@Guitarbarella]

Am loving mine

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

oh great. that's wonderful to hear!

[@terragrahamthefirst]

Could you please explain wound vs. unwound strings and how they differ in terms of tuning? I just bought this lyre yesterday and am waiting for it to arrive! Your video has been a HUGE help.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Hi sorry I just saw this. The wound strings are the lower tone strings. They have metal wrapped around them it just makes them lower in pitch. You will see right away the difference when you get the lyre hope it helps

[@rogerrosewall6]

Thanks for this great video. I have never played an instrument and I can't read music, but this video convinced me to order this harp from Amazon. I'm looking forward to experimenting with it. PS Your advice regarding tuning the harp is helpful. I noticed you were using a device to tune your harp, but you didn't mention it by name. Based on the appearance of it, I guessed it was a Snark tuner, so I ordered that from Amazon as well.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

awesome. I'm always so happy when people who may have always wanted to play an instrument try ! it's so rewarding and I believe you will love it~~ Yes I think it was a snark. You can always use any number of free tuners for the iPhone or smart phone in a pinch!! any questions feel free to ask me and I hope you enjoy the lyre harp very much!!

[@Callme.christiee]

Thank you so much for this video! It was very informative. Would you recommend this harp to beginners? I have no experience whatsoever, but I really want to learn how to play.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

CallMeChristiee awe thanks so much for watching and commenting. Yes I think it is great for beginners and seasoned professionals. It has a great sound and is very well made!!

[@mewtwaila]

I want one because it makes me feel like something a fairy would play ♪(๑ᴖ◡ᴖ๑)♪ Very nice an informative video!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

I totally get your thinking. Isn’t that just awesome. We need a world right now where Fairy’s play lyre harps :)

[@mewtwaila]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul Yes! 😊

[@deni-gibbs]

I really enjoyed this. I would like to play hymns on it. Would that be possible?

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

i believe you could as long as there are no sharps or flats. OR you could try (and hope they don't pop) try and add the sharps to the notes that need it. Like this harp I believe starts on the A or G right> I can't remember and it's put away at the moment. So if it is G then just tune the F notes to F Sharp and then you have the key of G and can play most songs but they will be in that key! Good luck hope that helps!

[@deni-gibbs]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul thank you!

[@granmabern5283]

Thankyou

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Awe you’re welcome. Thanks for watching !

[@sylvia1124]

Hi, Maria, I bought the Aklot with the king David top. Love your tutorial and now I have a question. What does the transducer plug into? I tried plugging it into a speaker with no luck. I don't understand what it is or does.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

If you stick the transducer on the harp and turn it on or turn up the volume. And then plug in the other side to amp it should amplify the sound. Good luck and thanks so much for your kind words about the video.

[@WoRN808]

Thank you! I just got one similar to this today. I used this tuning with the F sharps you suggested. Am curious. Are they any other tunings I can do on this instrument that might work?

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Sure you could make the f’s natural. Then it would be a mode. Like it would be the c major scale but starting on a different note (and so it would be considered a mode because of that but it also means you could play along with songs that have no sharps or flats (c major or A minor). And i am sure there are others within reason (meaning you don’t want to make some of the strings so tight they will break ) good luck! And congrats on getting this lovely instrument

[@WoRN808]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul Yes. That's really what I was referring to, trying not to make the smaller strings too tight. I started out trying to do few octaves of a pentatonic scale and got scared! Thanks for your help.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

WoRN808 exactly because you would be skipping too many notes and getting to the higher tones too quickly!! Have fun! And glad i could help

[@amybethany4109]

Hi Maria, thank you for this. I am going to buy one to learn. What is the tuning gadget you are using with the tool please? X

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

hi it's an electronic tuner. Fairly inexpensive but really great to have. Make sure if you buy one that it's "chromatic" not a guitar one. Most have multiple settings and if you get one that does make sure you change it to 'chromatic' or it will not recognize some of the strings. thanks for watching!~

[@amybethany4109]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul ooo thank you so much Maria , Amy, UK xx

[@m.agarcia5023]

Very nice I see you have many interest in an array of instrument's. Just wondering how many years you have been studying music?.Do you teach and preform to the public besides you tube.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Hi there, Well I am mostly self taught. I started to teach myself music with the guitar at 15 and I haven't stopped lol. I used to do a lot more "gig" before my parent's got sick and then sadly with advance ages of 89 and 94 passed away in the last 4 plus years. My dad just this past April :( I hope one day to get back to some gigging when time allows. :) Thanks again for the nice words

[@awatt6088]

I got my lyre today. But don't know where I can find free material teaching me how to play

[@AbstractMelody]

I go by ear. Try experimenting with the notes and get to know your Instrument. When you know the notes well. Try listening and mimicking songs you like, I do this for hallelujah, dragon roost, and many other short, repeating songs. I'm sorry I cannot provide much info but I don't have a lyre but I have 1 comming, I have a small kinnor harp (10 string) and I know a few songs on it by ear. Oh and keep in mind the scale.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

yes i agree with the other reply. just go with the music and find notes and patterns that please you. blessings to you.

[@gylhondirliluieth9502]

Can you please tell me from where you got it? I want to buy one but looking for quality

[@awatt6088]

@@gylhondirliluieth9502 Amazon:)

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Gylhondir Liluieth aklot and Amazon sells it! Good luck!

[@throathook]

16:50 total poggers moment

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

thanks don't know what it means but hope it's good!

[@crystalshard1925]

Heya I may be a little late but, on the lyre can you play sharps and flats on it? I really want to play the lyre, specifically the song gently as she goes. (Which has a D#)

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Hey there. You can only play sharps and flats if pre sharpen the strings. Like if you have a song that maybe starts on G and has an F#. Then make sure you tune all the f strings to F# But you can only go a little high or a little lower or you might pop the strings. Since this lyre is set up with G being the first string I would only either tune all the f to f sharp or leave the f natural. You can still play lots of songs Not sure about the one you mention though. Hope that helps

[@harryjackson4759]

I play flat on mine .B.flat using a tuner.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

@@harryjackson4759 yes you can do that too as it's also only tuning down a 1/2 steps on the B and E strings. I bet that sounds nice :)

[@thereseclairecreates]

Thank you so much for this video! There’s something about harp that triggers an immediate emotional reaction in me. I always feel like crying hearing the harp. Your playing was so emotionally evocative! I wish to develop that ability to know how each note sounds like. I really want to make my own music. By the way, I hope this isn’t a stupid question. I don’t know music theory so I’d like to ask you, is it possible to play pentatonic scale on the 16 string harp? I love the sound of the 10 string harp but since I’m investing in an instrument, I feel that I should get the 16 one if my intention is to be able to compose music one day. I just am in love with the sound of pentatonic.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Thanks so much for your kind words. I am not sure that it is possible because you would have to jump too many tones and you might wind up breaking the higher ones.

[@erieri6326]

Hi! Your videos are amazing, thank you for them. I`m an absolutely beginner and now am looking for a lyre to buy and I was wondering if you could give me sort of advice on that?.. I wanted to buy this 16 string aklot lyre as it has quiet a bit of positive reviews, do you think it`s okay or too much for the beginner... I just don`t want to get limited by the amount of strings. thanks a lot!!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Ирэк Аджаматова thank you for your kind words. I absolutely think this is perfect for a beginner or advanced and I also totally get that you don’t want to be limited by the amount of strings. And I know from experience having the 7 string as well as the 16 string that I enjoy the 16 string way more. Many more possibilities!! Good luck and I hope you enjoy the lyre that you get!!

[@erieri6326]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul thanks a lot!

[@danieljclark5922]

I'm shopping for an instrument for my father, who can't maintain any specific position for that long due to serious back problems. At the end you mentioned having a bunch of instruments, I'm wondering out of all of them which allows the most variety in playing positions? (This question of course open to all! :-)

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

I actually do think then something like lyre harp is a good idea. Because he can hold it in his hands or even put it on a table or his lap. Any of the other instruments would require more pressure on certain body parts. Like even the tongue drum is nice but it can get heavy. You can place some of them on tables but I don’t like the sound as much. And also it’s kind of limiting as most only have 8 or so tongues. At least with this type of harp you can play songs as there is two octaves. And even if you wanted to make this in the key of G major which I think is a good idea then he could play lots of songs. (Instead I’d tuning the F notes to F tune them to F sharp. ) (that makes it the key of G major F, A, B, C, D, E, Fsharp, G and so on. ) best wishes for him!!

[@danieljclark5922]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul Thanks so much!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

@@danieljclark5922 you are very welcome. Let me know if you have any other questions I can help you with when and if you get it for your dad. :)

[@EHBlasier]

Dear Maria, Has Aklot stopped making these? They are not listed on the site and I cannot find any to buy on the internet. Are you interested in selling? Thank You, Emily

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

hmm i would try and write to them. and no i like playing it but thanks for your interest

[@colson8327]

Almost forgot! I would like to know more about how you use the Ipad with the Aklot, please.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Hi I haven’t done it yet but you take the pick up and you plug it into an audio interface and then that into the iPad and then you can record it into the iPad and also use any number of effects to make the sound even richer (like reverb etc ). Check out a few of my other videos where I hooked my other acoustic instruments into my iPad for an example. Good wishes to you in your musical adventures.

[@colson8327]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul Thank you for the information!

[@rodrigorodriguez8920]

C Ionian (C Major). You can play all the Church Modes based off the C tonic. CDEFGABC-IONIAN DEFGABCD-DORIAN EFGABCDE-PHRYGIAN FGABCDEF-LYDIAN GABCDEFG-MYXOLYDIAN ABCDEFGA-AEOLIAN BCDEFGAB-LOCRIAN

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Cool thanks !

[@joseG.0]

I am interested in buying for personal enjoyment, but I've been looking for Akot's website so I can purchase it and also additional replacement strings and just cant seem to find it? It really sounds amazing and wish I could get replacement strings locally but so far calling places they dont carry them...lol

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Hi thanks for watching and writing. I think you can get replacement strings from Harpkit.com but you have to know the guages of the strings. You would just tell them and they can make a set. They are pretty reasonable. Tell them I sent you~ :)

[@jacquelineveach]

Hi, Maria. I subscribed and liked. I recently purchased the same 16 string Aklot lyre, as yours. I’m looking forward to playing relaxing tunes. I love the tonal quality. I read in another comment that you improvised. You mentioned in your vid that you play guitar. I assume you play chords on it? So, do you play chords on your 16 string lyre, along with improvising? I researched a zillion places and found there’s no chord instructions or lesson books to be had. Thanks for creating your demo video. Jacqueline

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

you can play chords two different ways. You can grab every other string for most major and minor chords and pluck them at the same time OR you gently place your fingers over the strings that you DON'T want to sound and then strum across the strings and the tones of your chord will sound! good luck and thanks for watching! hope you enjoy it!!

[@kittycay2145]

Great video! How can I learn to play songs? It is difficult to find chords online.

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Karla Castillo I know it is an instrument that I mostly play by ear or improvise with. Good luck in your quest. :) thanks for watching my video :)

[@kittycay2145]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul thank you for your quick response💖 blessings!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Karla Castillo you are welcome and anytime :)

[@Sharon-fp4ll]

Hello Maria, after watching this video I decided to buy a lyre harp too, and it arrived last week! But I'm having a problem. It won't stay in tune, even though I have played and tuned it everyday (now it's been one week). For example, I tune the first string to G, it's fine, I play it, then the next day it goes a little bit flat, I have to tune it again. And it happens to all strings! Will it go on like this forever? I get frustrated because it takes considerable amount of time tuning the strings. Thank you!

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Sharon Christanto it will take a pretty long time because the strings have to stretch. I usually still tune It each time I play That’s just the nature with this kind of instruments with zither pins and many strings. It will improve though just give it time :) enjoy and thanks for watching my video :)

[@Sharon-fp4ll]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul thank you Maria for the answer. I'll give it some more time 😊 it's a little bit hard here since harpists and lyrists are very rare in my country. I don't know where to ask questions. By the way, how long will it take for the strings to stretch till settle down?

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Sharon Christanto oh I don’t mind answering any etc. my pleasure. The strings stretching depends on how much you play it. I have found that the more I play the more quickly they stretch I know it isn’t a definitive time frame but that’s the nature of the beast. I do have a quick tip that helps me tune it very fast. Just turn it a hair. And do it literally right after you pluck it and you can almost feel how far to turn that wrench. Always tighten up not down. So if you overshot it then you must flatten the pitch and go up again :)

[@Sharon-fp4ll]

@@MariaCalfaDePaul I've tried your advice 😁 thanks a lot, Maria! I'll try to play it more often

[@MariaCalfaDePaul]

Sharon Christanto yeah let me know how it is after a time. Enjoy :)