Harpists for hire

Hire a Harpist in the UK

Few instruments create atmosphere the way a harp does. Its sound carries beautifully in both large and intimate spaces, and its visual presence adds something special to any setting. Harpists are most commonly booked for weddings, but they are equally popular at corporate dinners, garden parties, funerals and memorial services, and private celebrations of all kinds.

Types of harpist

There are two main types of harp you will come across when browsing. The pedal harp (also called a concert harp) is the larger of the two and produces a rich, full sound suited to classical and contemporary repertoire. The lever harp (often called a Celtic harp) is smaller and lighter, making it easier to transport and set up in tighter spaces. It has a bright, warm tone and is popular for folk, Celtic and lighter classical music. Some harpists play both instruments and can advise which is the better fit for your venue and event. A few also sing while they play, which adds another dimension to the performance.

Harpists for weddings

Weddings are by far the most popular booking for harpists. The ceremony is the most common slot, with the harpist playing as guests arrive, during the processional, the signing of the register and the recessional. Many couples then keep the harpist on for the drinks reception or wedding breakfast, where the music provides an elegant backdrop to conversation and photographs. If you are planning a church ceremony, check with your venue about what instruments are permitted, as some churches have restrictions. For civil ceremonies and outdoor weddings, a harp works particularly well because it carries acoustically without needing amplification in most settings. If you are exploring other options for ceremony music, browse our wedding ceremony musicians category for alternatives such as violinists and pianists.

Harpists for other events

Beyond weddings, harpists are a popular choice for corporate events, product launches and formal dinners where you want live music that creates atmosphere without competing with conversation. They also work well at afternoon teas, garden parties, hotel lobbies and charity events. For funerals and memorial services, a harpist can provide a gentle, dignified musical presence. If you are looking for a fuller sound, consider pairing a harpist with a classical singer or a string quartet. You can also browse our wider wedding musicians category to compare different types of performer for your day.

Repertoire

Modern harpists tend to have a much broader repertoire than you might expect. Alongside classical staples like Pachelbel's Canon in D, Debussy's Clair de Lune and Bach's Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring, many harpists also play contemporary pop, film scores, musical theatre and folk music arranged for harp. If you have a specific song in mind, such as a processional piece or a first dance, most harpists are happy to learn it in advance provided you give them enough notice. Check each harpist's profile for their repertoire list, or ask when you get in touch.

Practical considerations

Harps are large, delicate instruments, so there are a few practical things to check before booking. The harpist will need a flat, dry surface to play on, and a space of roughly 1.5m by 1.5m. If you are planning an outdoor event, confirm that the harpist is comfortable playing outside and have a contingency in case of rain, as harps are sensitive to moisture and temperature changes. Parking close to the venue entrance is important because the instrument is heavy and cannot be carried far. Most harpists are entirely self-contained and do not need a power supply for smaller venues, though some carry a small amplifier for larger rooms or outdoor settings.

Pricing

The average price for a harpist is currently £353, with most bookings falling in the £250 to £400 range for a standard one to two hour performance. Prices vary depending on travel distance, the length of the booking and whether the harpist is covering multiple parts of your day. Weekend bookings during peak wedding season (May to September) may carry a premium. Every listing shows a starting price, and the price comparison section further up this page gives a full breakdown. For more guidance on what to look for, see our guide to hiring a harpist.