Welcome to the Sarasota Harp Academy, where the magic of harp music comes to life!
Led by founder Giuseppina Ciarla, Principal Harpist of the Sarasota Opera and Venice Symphony, and a dedicated Suzuki-trained and certified teacher, our academy is your gateway to a world of musical possibilities. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced harpist, young or young at heart, we are here to inspire, guide, and nurture your passion for the harp.
About Us
At Sarasota Harp Academy, we believe that music has the power to touch souls and transcend boundaries. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we offer:
- Personalized Instruction: Tailored harp lessons designed to meet your unique goals and skill level.
- Inclusive Learning: We welcome students of all ages, from children to adults, to embark on a musical journey with us.
- Diverse Teaching Methods: Whether you prefer traditional harp instruction or the Suzuki method, we provide comprehensive training to suit your needs.
Our Achievements
Our students have achieved remarkable milestones:
- Sarasota Youth Orchestra Members: Many of our students have become members of the Sarasota Youth Orchestra, Pine View Orchestra, GCHFA orchestra, showcasing their talent on prestigious stages.
- International Competition Winners: Our harpists have excelled in international competitions, proving their dedication and skill.
- College Scholarships: Our students have received scholarships to pursue higher education in harp music including Blair School of Music at Vanderbilt and FSU School of Music.
What We Offer
- Weekly Harp Lessons: Explore the harp's enchanting world, from the fundamentals to advanced techniques.
- Performance Opportunities: Share your passion with the world through our numerous performance opportunities.
- Masterclasses: Learn from world-renowned harpists in exclusive masterclass sessions.
- Music Theory to appreciate and understand music mysteries!
- Harp Ensemble and Chamber Music opportunities
- Different music genres from Rock to Pop and Jazz harp
- Harp for two! Learn the harp with a friend. New offering for adult students.
- Online lessons and in person lessons
At the Sarasota Harp Academy, we pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of music genres to our students. While we have a strong foundation in classical music, we also provide training in a wide spectrum of musical styles, ensuring that our students have the opportunity to explore and master their favorite genres, from contemporary and jazz to rock, pop, and beyond. We are passionate about nurturing each student's unique musical journey, helping them discover the joy of creating and performing in their chosen genre.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is my child old enough to learn the harp?
At the Sarasota Harp Academy, we offer a free introductory lesson to assess a child’s ability to focus and enjoy learning. Most children can start as young as 4. All that’s required is curiosity and the ability to pay attention for a few moments.
2. What ages can start learning the harp?
Students of all ages are welcome! Young children (ages 4–5) take shorter, 30-minute lessons. Older children and adults typically take full 60-minute lessons.
3. Can beginners really learn the harp?
Absolutely! Lessons are tailored to your level, whether you’re 4 or 104. I make learning the harp fun, accessible, and rewarding.
4. How often should lessons be taken?
Weekly lessons are recommended to ensure steady progress, proper technique, and continued enjoyment of learning the harp.
5. What types of lessons do you offer?
• One-on-one lessons for personalized instruction
• Group classes for children and adults
• Harp for Two—learn with a friend and socialize while playing
6. How long are the lessons?
Lessons are 60 minutes, with 30-minute options for very young children to match their attention span.
7. Do parents participate in lessons?
For very young children, parent participation is encouraged and often essential. Inspired by the Suzuki method, parents support learning by observing, helping at home, and reinforcing positive practice habits. This involvement helps children feel secure, motivated, and confident as they develop their skills.
8. Do I need to own a harp to take lessons?
No! While I don’t rent harps directly, I can connect you with reputable local harp rental companies so you can get started.
9. How do I get a harp if I don’t own one?
I can provide contacts for trusted harp rental companies to help you find the right instrument for your needs.
10. Do you offer online lessons?
Yes! Lessons are available in-person or online to suit your schedule and location.
11. Are there performance opportunities?
Yes! Students can participate in recitals, community events, and other performance opportunities to showcase their progress.
12. What should I bring to my first lesson?
Bring yourself, a notebook, and your enthusiasm! There is no need to bring your harp unless you prefer to. We have a variety of harps in different sizes and models available for use during lessons.
At the Sarasota Harp Academy, we offer a free introductory lesson to assess a child’s ability to focus and enjoy learning. Most children can start as young as 4. All that’s required is curiosity and the ability to pay attention for a few moments.
2. What ages can start learning the harp?
Students of all ages are welcome! Young children (ages 4–5) take shorter, 30-minute lessons. Older children and adults typically take full 60-minute lessons.
3. Can beginners really learn the harp?
Absolutely! Lessons are tailored to your level, whether you’re 4 or 104. I make learning the harp fun, accessible, and rewarding.
4. How often should lessons be taken?
Weekly lessons are recommended to ensure steady progress, proper technique, and continued enjoyment of learning the harp.
5. What types of lessons do you offer?
• One-on-one lessons for personalized instruction
• Group classes for children and adults
• Harp for Two—learn with a friend and socialize while playing
6. How long are the lessons?
Lessons are 60 minutes, with 30-minute options for very young children to match their attention span.
7. Do parents participate in lessons?
For very young children, parent participation is encouraged and often essential. Inspired by the Suzuki method, parents support learning by observing, helping at home, and reinforcing positive practice habits. This involvement helps children feel secure, motivated, and confident as they develop their skills.
8. Do I need to own a harp to take lessons?
No! While I don’t rent harps directly, I can connect you with reputable local harp rental companies so you can get started.
9. How do I get a harp if I don’t own one?
I can provide contacts for trusted harp rental companies to help you find the right instrument for your needs.
10. Do you offer online lessons?
Yes! Lessons are available in-person or online to suit your schedule and location.
11. Are there performance opportunities?
Yes! Students can participate in recitals, community events, and other performance opportunities to showcase their progress.
12. What should I bring to my first lesson?
Bring yourself, a notebook, and your enthusiasm! There is no need to bring your harp unless you prefer to. We have a variety of harps in different sizes and models available for use during lessons.
For all other enquires, please contact us at