Ravenna 34 Harp by Dusty Strings Dusty Strings

Playing the harp is much easier and more enjoyable when you have an instrument that sounds good and functions well, and this is the driving concept behind the Ravenna models. To provide the best performance, the Ravenna is made with the same high-quality hardware and materials as our more expensive models.  So, in order to meet our goal of affordability for the most budget-conscious harpists, we came up with an innovative construction technique that reduces the time we put into building them. We also priced separately all the accessories and options that are useful but not immediately essential, which is why the base price includes just the instrument, a tuning wrench, and the most commonly-used sharping levers. Each person can add exactly what they want or need to fit their budget.

The Ravenna 34 features nearly five octaves of the characteristic Dusty Strings sound – a warm, strong bass balanced by a bright, clear treble. It has a comfortable stave-back design and even string tension, allowing for precision playing. To keep the carrying size of the harp relatively compact and portable, the stand (if you choose to include one) is completely removable and comes apart to fit in one of the case pockets.

Additional sharping levers can be ordered with the harp or added later, as budget allows. All the lever holes are pre-drilled, making it possible to add Loveland levers later on, but it does require time and detailed work, so we usually recommend starting out with as many sharping levers as your budget can accommodate. More levers means a wider range of available playing keys, and anyone who gets seriously into playing the harp will eventually want a full set of levers.

Most people find that raising the Ravenna 34 about 5″ off the floor is a comfortable height for playing, and you can choose either a drop-down leg or a stand to achieve this. The drop-down leg slides into playing position with the twist of a knob and adjusts to any height. It is very flexible and portable, but must be retracted into the harp when you’re done playing (the harp also must be supported by the player’s body when using this leg. The removable stand raises it about 5 inches (8″ and 12″ legs are also available) and holds it steady on four legs. If neither option fits in the budget, you can set it up on a small box or step-stool while playing.

The CD34 case makes this harp easy to take in the car or carry on the subway. It has thick foam padding and a water resistant exterior, with a comfortable shoulder strap and numerous pockets for a stand, legs, music and other accessories. Backpack straps are also available.