Harp Lessons in NYC

Q: Where do the lessons take place?

You have three options: At my home in Park Slope, at your home (if you live in New York), or online via Zoom.

Private harp lessons are open to students of all ages and experience levels, from complete beginners to advanced players returning to their instrument. Each lesson is personalized to your goals, whether you're learning for enjoyment, creative expression, or professional development.

I work closely with every student to build a solid musical foundation, strengthen technique, and nurture confidence. Lessons emphasize artistry, curiosity, and consistency, all within a supportive, encouraging environment.

For younger learners (ages 3–7), I recommend that a parent or caregiver participate during lessons to help with practice at home. I also assist families and new students in finding the right harp to rent or purchase.

Lesson details:

30-minute lessons (recommended for younger students): $70
60-minute lessons: $120
Lessons take place weekly. Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance.

Interested in getting started? Register for a trial lesson!

Private harp lesson for young student in NYC - Esther Sibiude teaching

Group harp class in Brooklyn - Children learning harp with Esther Sibiude

About

Esther Sibiude - Professional Harpist and Music Teacher

My name is Esther. Originally from France, I grew up in Germany where I started learning the harp at age 7. For this reason I can teach harp lessons in French, German or English!

I am classically trained, and teach in a range of styles: classical, jazz, improvisation, folk and more. Since I moved to New York in 2016, I trained with Brandee Younger, a Grammy award nominee harpist who teaches at NYU and at the New School, and whose harp pedagogy infuses classical, jazz, soul and funk influences into a new harp tradition pioneered by her predecessors and idols, Dorothy Ashby and Alice Coltrane. Like Younger, I don’t restrict the harp to one single genre of music, encouraging my students to explore and experiment. My lessons include music theory to encourage deeper learning. I love to guide and watch a new harp player embark on the beautiful harp journey. Remember, it’s never too early or too late to start to play the harp!

I am also a visual artist and a writer. I write short stories that I put into music for the radio and for the stage. Here is a selection of my recent projects.

Projects ▶ Click to expand

"Organ Grinder" at Jane's Carousel, Brooklyn, August 2025

Esther Sibiude harp performance at Jane's Carousel Brooklyn - Organ Grinder 2025

"Spirit and Soul Become Confused" at Roulette, Brooklyn, February 2024

Harp concert Brooklyn - Spirit and Soul Become Confused at Roulette by Esther Sibiude

"The Song of Dirt Stammers Our Tongue" at The Kitchen, New York City, June 2023

The Kitchen NYC harp performance - Esther Sibiude with ensemble 2023

"The Song of Dirt Stammers Our Tongue" at The Kitchen, NYC (Performance View)

NYC harp concert - The Song of Dirt Stammers Our Tongue solo performance by Esther Sibiude

"Esra" at the Queens Museum, Queens, November 2021

Queens Museum harp performance - Esra ensemble featuring Esther Sibiude 2021

"My Heart Swims in Blood" at Lafayette Presbyterian Church, Brooklyn, 2019

Brooklyn church harp concert - Lafayette Presbyterian Church performance by Esther Sibiude

FAQ

At what age can my child start taking harp lessons?

Children can begin learning the harp as early as three years old. The smaller size and affordability of a lever harp make it an ideal choice for young beginners. For children under eight years old, I encourage a parent or caretaker to attend lessons to help support at-home practice.

Can I rent a harp?

Yes! I can guide you in selecting the right instrument and help facilitate a rental. Harp rentals typically start at $70 per month.

Where do the lessons take place?

You have three options:

At my home in Park Slope

At your home (if you live in New York)

Online via Zoom

Do I need to bring my harp to lessons?

No, when you take lessons at my home, you will use my harp.

What kind of music can you play on the harp?

The harp is an incredibly versatile instrument that can be used in a wide range of musical genres, including

Classical

Celtic & Folk

Bluegrass

Pop & Rock

Jazz & World Fusion

Thanks to modern advancements, the harp is now more adaptable than ever, seamlessly fitting into various musical styles and contemporary performances.