Finding Your Way Forward
Whether you are experiencing discomfort, struggling with tension, concerned about posture, or looking to prevent injury before it arises, I offer support to help you find a way forward.
Playing the harp requires a great deal of physical strength. While harpists are often seen as graceful or even "angelic," the reality of daily practice is one of endurance, coordination, and sustained effort.
Over time, this can lead to tension, discomfort, or pain — particularly in the hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, neck, and back. Poor posture, inefficient technique, or simply doing too much without the right support can all contribute. If left unaddressed, these patterns may develop into repetitive strain injury.
Self-care is essential — not only for the body, but for the whole musician. Many players find themselves navigating aches, fatigue, or a sense that something isn't quite working, without knowing how to resolve it.
Prevention
Developing habits and awareness before pain begins — building a sustainable, healthy relationship with the harp from the very first lesson or as a refresher at any stage.
Tension & Discomfort
Addressing the early signs: tension in hands, wrists, arms, shoulders, neck, or back. Small, thoughtful changes can make a profound difference — releasing tension and restoring ease.
Recovery
For those already experiencing pain, a gentle, non-judgemental approach to guide you out of pain and back into a place of ease and enjoyment.
My Approach
My approach looks beyond "fixing" a single problem. Instead, we explore how you play as a whole — your technique, hand position, movement, and relationship with the instrument. Small, thoughtful changes can make a profound difference, helping to release tension, restore ease, and rebuild confidence in your playing.
Our bodies are innately intelligent. Learning to listen to what they are communicating is a key part of the process. Together, we develop a way of playing that feels more natural, efficient, and sustainable — one that supports both technical freedom and musical expression.
Over the past 20 years, I have developed and refined approaches within my teaching that help to prevent injury, as well as guide players out of pain and back into a place of ease and enjoyment. Every harpist's journey is unique, and the path forward will be shaped around your individual needs.
If something in your playing doesn't feel quite right, or you'd simply like to explore a more natural and comfortable way of playing, you're very welcome to get in touch.
Testimonial
Liehsja is a wonderful teacher and harpist. I came to her after years of pain from being taught a technique that didn't work for my body. I was desperate, but she patiently and expertly guided me through learning her method of playing the harp, and the results have been incredible. Everything immediately felt so much more stable and supported, it almost feels like the notes play themselves. I get such a stronger sound with so much less effort and pain. I'm so grateful to Liehsja, having the opportunity to be taught by her is a true privilege.
— Amy P