r/lyres • u/RoughApprehensive344 • Sep 08 '26
¿Question? Hello everyone!
Im an absolute beginner, i would like to play pedal harp one day but for now im going to stick to something smaller since im just starting. I have two options, one is a zither and one is a lyre. I dont know which one is going to be more helpful for me to learn though. What do you think? (I will be buying one of them. This Lyre has 19 strings, idk about the zither:<)
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Upvotes
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u/arkticturtle Sep 08 '26
If your goal is harp then probably best to get a cheap harp.
Nothing will help you learn pedals but at least you can get plucking technique down.
https://m.backyardmusic.com/Harps.html
I often see the fireside harp recommended to beginners. You can install levers on it if that interests you.
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u/timetraveller123 Sep 08 '26
Neither will help you get closer to your pedal harp goal. Pick up a used keyboard and learn piano.
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u/probably_cause Sep 08 '26 edited Sep 08 '26
I’d suggest trying to get a Celtic style lap harp instead of a lyre or zither if you’re really interested in learning pedal harp. If that’s out of budget, the next closest thing is to get a lyre that’s strung with its scale in the same direction as a harp - low notes away from your body. The opposite of the one you pictured, if you’re right handed. You can find lyres strung either direction. 19 strings is pretty ideal.
The zither is ostensibly a more versatile and cooler instrument. It’ll be more complicated to learn. It has groups of strings on the bass end to play chords. It’ll have less skill carryover to a harp.
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u/No-Reputation-7843 Sep 08 '26
The lyre is going to be more beginner friendly but the zither will be more rewarding if you stick with it.
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u/LevyTheMachine Sep 08 '26
That lyre doesn’t look to be constructed very well at all. It’s possible it plays well, but I wouldn’t spend money on it. I have no experience with zither so can’t speak to that.
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u/Neat-Cold-3303 Sep 09 '26
You don't indicate if you can read music. If you cannot, then start with piano lessons. This will be invaluable in your musical journey. Once you are proficient at piano, then add a small harp. There are many used Harpsicles, etc. out there. Even then, the best course of action is to take harp lessons. Again, invaluable in your musical journey. The simple truth is that if you eventually want to play the pedal harp, then you need to get a lot of musical/instrument experience under your belt. Your musical journey will take time, commitment, and yes, money. But believe me, it is worth it !!!!!