Doing Business with the Sylvia Woods Harp Center

"I like the way you do business. You are a professional in every sense of the word, and a business entrepreneur to boot. I'm so impressed with your organization, dependability, integrity, and personal touch. I can promise you we will do business with the Sylvia Woods Harp Center in the future. You are great." - L.R., California

"You folks excel at customer service there, and I always tell people that. Thanks again!" - F.B., Georgia

"Thank you for the e-mail and shipping my order so fast. Your personal touch has gained another customer for life." - P.L., Round Rock, Texas

"We just wanted to let you know how happy we are with the two orders we placed recently from your catalog. The cassettes and music books we ordered are wonderful! They will enrich our days for years to come. And because of your kindness and care, the ordering process was also very pleasant. From our first contact with you at your store, to the delivered package, everything was optimal! We've done quite a lot of mail orders, and have never had the whole process go so well. We were really impressed with the care you took in selecting the packaging materials, and the care with which the boxes were packed and sealed. They were works of art! And because of your efforts everything arrived in beautiful condition. Thank you so much!" - F.B. and D.B., California

"I just wanted to send you this brief e-mail and say how exceptional your customer service is. From having needed information instantly available on initial phone inquiry, to promptness of order processing, use of proper packaging (nothing arrives broken...), and timely follow-up for any backordered items. Such comprehensive and friendly service is very hard to find from anyone these days. Consequently, yours truly stands out. Convenient and quality service combined with a wide range of quality products is a real plus. Just wanted you to know such things are noticed...and appreciated!" - S.C., Tennessee

"I just wanted to drop a little note thanking you for your (amazingly) prompt response to my order.  I just needed some strings, but I actually put it off because I thought it may take too long.  I was so pleased when they arrived the next day!" - C.B., Long Beach, California

"I have known and done business with "you all" for 8+ years now, and can't say enough good things about the wonderful, knowledgeable service and education you offer to customers; as well as the open, friendly honest professionalism with which you conduct business.  I always advise people to hear your demo CD and trust everything they hear from Sylvia Woods Harp Center before they decide about a harp.  Thanks again for being a business and collection of people everyone can rely on." - M.W., Michigan

"This is a belated thank you for the wonderful service on my order.  It is a pleasure to do business with you.  My grandchildren are enjoying playing the harp I bought for them as they are a musical family." - B. B., Ontario, Canada

"Thank you for the incredibly fast service on my last order! I came home from work Wednesday, and did a double-take when I saw the boxes on my front porch, when I had only mailed off my order the previous Friday. Wow!"  - K.H., Washington

"Just wanted to thank you both again for your kindness in opening the harp center for me last month on a day when you are normally closed. Believe it or not, this was the high point of our 2-1/2 month trip for me - - Even topped the Grand Canyon! My biggest regret in life is that I didn't start studying the harp 40 years ago. It's still a joy at any age. Gratefully yours," - A.B., Connecticut

"Dear Sylvia, Just wanted to drop you a note to tell you how much I appreciate the promptness that you sent my one little ole string! It was so important that I get it soon, and that you sent it out so FAST always amazes me! Thanks again!" - L.E., California

"To every person at the Harp Center -- Your help, support, and follow-up went far beyond what currently passes for professional service, in my experience.  Just a note to express my gratitude and now, loyalty!" - D. P., New Jersey

"There have been many times in my short career of "harping" when I've thought to let you all know how much I appreciate your kind help.  You surely stand out in my mind as the nicest group of people I like to work with. And I always look forward to talking with you and fully trust your judgment." J. W., Pennsylvania

"It has been a month since I purchased a Triplett Axline harp from you, and I am pleased to report that I love my harp.  I was one of those people who wanted for a long time to play the harp. After 10 years of postponing, it feels great to finally have this dream fulfilled.  I am writing to inform you that my harp selection experience has been wonderful.  I think you provide a wealth of knowledge without overwhelming a person.  I enjoyed meeting you very much.  Your passion for the harp and charisma really comes across to me.  I am a delighted customer who would not hesitate to recommend you to others.  Furthermore, I would like to praise Aedan, your sales associate.  After the workshop, she answered many questions that I had about harps.  She even played a few so that I could hear the differences.  Yet, at no time did she ever make me feel pressured in any way.  She gave me time and space to make my decision.  I went on to buy some accessories with her assistance.  Her kindness and follow through must be commended.  Thank you and your staff for making my harp buying experience a truly worthwhile one."  K.M., Northern California

“I just wanted to let you know how much we appreciate your store and the excellent service of your fine staff.  We had visited your store once before and ordered a couple of times via telephone and had been very pleased.  But our last visit to purchase a new harp for my daughter was the ultimate test for any sales staff.  I freely admit that I am a very “high needs” comparison shopper with many questions and concerns and I am usually frustrated by unknowledgeable, lackadaisical, or pushy salespeople.  One of the members of your staff, Rachel, cheerfully volunteered to play any and all harps that we wanted to hear as many times as we desired.  In addition to playing beautifully, she was extremely patient, knowledgeable, and attentive.  Because of this, we were able to make our final selection of a maple Dusty Strings FH36-S harp.  I was so pleased with the excellent service.  We are thoroughly enjoying the new harp and just wanted to express our gratitude for all of Rachel’s help and to commend you for hiring such fine staff.” C.H., California

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Beginning the Harp

"One Christmas long ago I was awake in my bed thinking what I wanted Santa to bring me. I thought and thought and I decided that I wanted a harp. Now, almost 15 years later I finally got my wish. Under the tree was a harp. These past three weeks since Christmas have been some of the most happy in my life, as I have undertaken the task of playing the most sublime of instruments." - A.W., New York

"I am now 68, still busy, but taking some time for myself at last. I bought this harp just for myself. It fills a need deep within me. I do have some arthritis in my hands, which constant playing has helped keep at bay. It is tremendously exciting to be starting on a new venture." - T.J., British Columbia, Canada

"I have been playing now almost 4 months. I have a Dusty Strings folk harp (a present to myself on my recent 50th birthday). From childhood I had wanted to play the harp but never had the opportunity. Now that the children are gone from home, I find it a real stress reducer to come home from work and play on my harp." - S.S., Washington

"I want to take a moment to thank you for the excellent service and complete reliability I have experienced since first sending for a catalogue (a couple of years ago) to ordering my harp last spring. I have had a perfectly wonderful summer with it - love the rich round tone, and am becoming quite fluent at my elementary level. Practicing is a bit of an addiction. I can't stay away from it. Thanks for the help in spreading this magic far and near." - M.W., Michigan

"I'm enjoying learning the harp that I picked up last Saturday. My next door neighbors love to hear it even when I'm just playing random notes." - C.C., New York

"I LOVE my new harp -- it couldn't be more beautiful. The walnut is perfect -- it is just gorgeous! And I'm learning to play it very quickly. How wonderful it is." - S.W., Texas

"I am really enjoying my harp -- even some of the neighbors are having fun listening to my struggles especially when they recognize the melodies. But you were right and I should have listened, I really should have gotten the next one (at least) up instead of the small one. I can already feel the limitation. When I win the lotto I will be back to get a larger one. Your beginning book is excellent, and I have no problems following it and I am really pleased with the results." - S.M., California

"A short note of thanks. I am consistently impressed, surprised and pleased by the prompt fulfillment of orders. Incredibly fast. At 44, I decided to learn to play the folk harp. I am an adult student with NO previous musical experience -- never played an instrument, didn't know how to read music, etc. I am using the Sylvia Woods book "Teach Yourself to Play the Folk Harp" and tapes. I wanted to let you know that you have become a part of my life and that I appreciate it." - B.H., New York

"I love my new Axline harp! It looks and sounds absolutely beautiful. Thanks for all the help in making this huge decision. After receiving the harp I'm sure that it was the right one.  My son loves it, too, and asks me to play it after I put him to bed at night, so he can fall asleep to its sweet voice. Isn't that great?  Anyway, learning to play my new instrument has already brought me a lot of joy, and I know that it will for many years to come. Once again, thanks for all the answers to my numerous questions leading up to this purchase. I'm just thrilled with my new harp!" - L.H., New Jersey

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Sylvia Woods' Teach Yourself to Play the Folk Harp Book

"I started playing folk harp at the end of March and your "Teach Yourself" book has been a BLAST.  The harp has kept me sane these past months -- with 2 toddlers and a hubby in school full-time, I had become too "other-focused."  I desperately needed "my own thing."  Folk harp is IT -- I am absolutely hooked.  Thanks again for helping a stay-at-home mom stay sane -- and for your EXCELLENT book." - A.S., Colorado Springs, CO

(written in 1984)
"Last evening after returning home from a very expensive and rather mediocre dinner in a decidedly posh restaurant, I got to thinking about the relative value of things. On the up side of the scale your book, "Teach Yourself to Play the Folk Harp," immediately came to mind.  For a mere $8.00 it has given me five months of information, instruction, playable tunes and pure pleasure which will remain with me eons longer than the memory of one limp salad course which cost about the same thing." - P.B., Georgia

"For eight years I taught music at a private school, and the instruments included piano, accordion, recorder, flute, violin, cello, guitar, ocarina, and a steel-drum band, so I am familiar with a number of different tutor books, and yours is by far the best!  You have such a natural, easy style of teaching.  I love the touches of humour here and there, and the grading of the material, choice of pieces, and introduction of new techniques is really fantastic.  For me, the most important thing has always been that the pupil must be able to play simple little tunes right from the start.  So many of the books have endless pages of dull exercises before you come to an actual tune.  Your selections and arrangements of the music allow students to sound good immediately, which is so exciting.  I also admire your business sense and innovative ideas.  I wish you everything of the very best for your continued success."  - G. B., South Africa

"First of all, I'd like to tell you how much I am enjoying your book "Teach Yourself to Play the Folk Harp."  I received your book and CD along with a harp for Christmas.  I have been probably driving my parents nuts, for quite some time now, with my harp fascination.  I have found your book to be an extraordinary help so for.  It is so informative.  I have found everything I need to know in it so far.  It covers all things I thought I'd have to search around to find out.  Not just playing, but reading music, tuning, changing strings, harp care, and others.  It is Great!  Thanks for writing it!  I was pleased to see that you have such a wide selection of other books.  The wide selection of music offers such inspiration and will provide a special driving force to keep me going." - L.H., Maryland

"Thank you so much for writing "Teach Yourself To Play The Folk Harp". It is brilliant! I have had my Celtic Harp for 5 months. I composed a piece for harp and flute for my music exam. My friend played her flute and I played my harp." - D.P. age 16, England

"I started playing folk harp at the end of March, and your book "Teach Yourself to Play the Folk Harp" has been a BLAST. The harp has kept me sane these past months. With 2 toddlers and a hubby in school full-time, I had become too other-focused. I desperately needed my own thing. Folk harp is IT. I am absolutely HOOKED. Thanks again for helping a stay-at-home mom stay sane -- and for your excellent book." - A.S., Colorado

I am a new "harper" and have been using your book "Teach Yourself to Play the Folk Harp". I love it! It is rare to find a book for musical instrument beginners that jumps right into beautiful, full sounding music. I've been playing acoustic guitar for 15 years and harp has been a comfortable and natural transition. Thanks to your book, tape and video, I am very much enjoying playing in my personal time and I've started performing and it's only been three months.  Recently a woman who has played harp in the Phoenix symphony orchestra for 25 years saw me play and said, "Wow, I can tell you're taking lessons!" I'm not. It's all because of the quality lessons and music selection in your book. Thank you for sharing your skills, and insights. I can't wait to finish it and dive into more of your books. Thanks! – S.W., Arizona

Your book is delightful, with many of my favorites and some I've never heard. So I could enjoy finding the notes on the first and deciphering the tune on the later.  The skill challenge progressed perfectly and was always balanced.  The pieces are so loveable I could practice for hours over and over without getting tired of them. At 60 years I have to practice a lot to get them to stay, so it's especially nice that they're lovely.  I practice so much my grandchildren can't complain about their mother's reminding them to practice.  I have never gone very far in any of my attempts to learn music and felt I had no ability. But between you and my teacher I have a wonderful bedtime ritual now.  And though I don't expect to make Carnegie Hall, it is nice to know people don't seem to mind listening to me practice.  Thank you for your work and caring.  You've improved my life. - L. G, Idaho

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Other Books by Sylvia Woods

"I just want you to know what a great help your 50 Christmas Carols book for the folk harp has been. I have used it every season for the past 5 years and it has proven to be invaluable. Your book has been, and continues to be, a lifesaver!!!" - N.C., Pennsylvania

"I wanted to write you again and let you know how much I am enjoying your books -- my order of several just arrived yesterday and I literally am devouring them! I am having such an incredible time with my harp -- and I haven't even owned it a month! Already, I've got "Ode to Joy" down in my own arrangement! Simple, but mine! It is such a joy to me, I feel like I have come home -- musically speaking at any rate. I am already considering the purchase of another harp." - D.P., Hawaii

"Thanks from the bottom of my heart for your multi-level arrangement books!!!!  I started playing harp about 10 years ago. I recently bought the Scottish Songs, the Irish Melodies, the O'Carolan and the Chanukah and the audio cassettes to go with them -- and am having a glorius time.  I already had the Christmas, Hymns and Wedding Music, and Pachelbel.  This is to thank Sylvia -- she is much appreciated.  Now that I am 70, my goal is to play all the "B" versions WELL -- soon."  - L.W., Florida

"Dear Sylvia, Nobody, but nobody can arrange music for the lever harp like you!!!  I am so grateful that you do what you do . . . and so beautifully.  All the pieces are great.  The Lennon and McCartney book is a MASTERPIECE, and I especially like the Spiritual Medley. THANKS, THANKS, THANKS, THANKS!!!!" - J.D. California

"I just wanted to say WOW!  You guys are really speedy!  I just placed my order on Thursday evening and it was in my mailbox when I came home from work yesterday (Monday).  One of the things I ordered was In the Bleak Midwinter. I played it last night -- it was beautiful!  I've only been playing the harp for a few months but I was really excited to be able to play the first stanza without too much difficulty.  Thank you for such a beautiful arrangement." - L.B., Michigan

"Thank you so much for arranging In the Bleak Midwinter for harp.  I just want to play the music over and over.  Thank you as well for sending the music so quickly." - J.S., Hillsboro, Oregon

"Dear Sylvia,
Thank you so very much for your John Denver Love Songs book. For the first hour that I tried to play the songs -- especially "For You" -- I couldn't see the music through my tears!  Now I can play them and I really appreciate how wonderfully you arranged the pieces -- so beautiful and easy to play. I love all of your other books also -- especially the Scottish Songs.  Thanks again to you, your store and Heidi and Terri!" - B. B., California

"I feel I am learning a new language and very much enjoy it as I am working through your Music Theory and Arranging book.  A friend asked me to learn to read fake music and Jewish music, fun challenges, but tricky with my limited background. With your help, I understand much more clearly what I need to do to fill in appropriately, as well as to identify and omit non-essentials. You've made playing more do-able and fun!" - H. R., Des Moines, Iowa

I just found your book Music Theory and Arranging Techniques for Folk Harp. Now, that is one GREAT BOOK!!! I have so many folk harpers that have trouble reading arrangements, understanding chords, etc. etc. BUT you have touched all the areas. Plus the adults (they have lots of wishes to play quickly, and no time to devote to practice) will be able to read the melody line, rhythm patterns, and after learning the chords...will be able to play something that is their "own arrangement" without dealing with learning someone else’s arrangement. I just adore it!!!!! Thank you, thank you. I have been writing all that kind of information for so many years for students, and here you have brought it all together!!! What ever would we do without you, your talent, and dedication to making the harp a better place to be!!! All my students will be required to purchase this book in the Fall when I start teaching in September. Best to you ... hugs and harps.... – J.T., Oregon

"As a beginning harpist, naturally I want to get my hands on anything I can possibly find that is harp-related. I bought books, CDs, harps, figurines, jewelry, and anything else I could find with a harp on it.  The best books and CDs that I found, though, came from you, Sylvia.  My favorite harp CDs are the tutorial CDs that go with the books that you have published. (50 Irish Melodies and 52 Scottish Songs). The books are at a level that I can play easily with only a few minutes of practice . . and make me feel a bit more like a harpist and less like a wanna-be. Thanks for publishing such great things!" -- G.M., Maryland

"Just had to drop a little note to say how much I enjoy the books/video you have put out to teach beginners and those wishing to learn the harp. Without you . . . many would not be brave enuf to try.  I have several students that can lever faster than I can.  Lots of fun to watch them progress and become fine harpists.  Thanks again for all you have done for the harp world . . . we wouldn't be as far without your guidance and love of the harp and especially "sharing" what you know." - J.L., Oregon

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Our Harps

"Thank you so very much for all your personal assistance in selecting a harp. It arrived this week -- and I LOVE IT!  My only regret is that I didn't call you ten years ago!" - T.S., Illinois

"This short note is to let you know that I have received my beautiful Dusty Strings harp. It is an exquisite instrument, and the workmanship on it far exceeded my expectations. I'd like to thank you and your staff -- particularly Heidi and Terri. All of you were very patient and helpful in answering my countless questions. It is good to know that your people are so well informed about the harps they sell." - C.M., New York.

"The Triplett Celtic II harp we purchased from you has found a truly appreciative home.  It is beautiful to look at and to hear.  Two of us are learning to play it, and friends and family alike (including our two cats!) enjoy listening.  Thank you again for your thoughtfulness.  It is always a pleasure doing business with you."  - G. & C. S, Pennsylvania

"I wanted to share the joy by letting you know how much I love my Dusty Strings FH36S. It has beautiful design and craftsmanship and the most exquisite tone.  I can't imagine a more beautiful sounding harp than this one.  I know my harp and I will be life long friends." L.W., Oklahoma

"I want to tell you that buying this Dusty Strings harp from your store was one of the most pleasant experiences I have had in a long time. I'm sure you already know, but your staff is ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL! Even my husband had a good time! That is saying quite a lot, indeed!
I love the harp and it is a dream come true! Thank you again, so much, and believe me if I ever buy another harp I will come to you." - M.W., California

"I recently purchased a Lyon and Healy Prelude lever harp from you. From the first phone calls to you, when I was struggling with which harp to order, to the later phone calls where I had narrowed my choice to two different harps, to the final contact when I placed my order, you guys were terrific!!! I had a choice of where to take my business. I decided to buy from Sylvia Woods Harp Center because A: I had purchased a lot of music from you in the past and it was always promptly sent, correct, and in good condition; and B: because your personnel were so helpful and friendly to me over the phone. No other firm took the kind of time to answer my questions and help me with my decision. Purchasing a $4,000 instrument was a big deal for me, so I wanted to make sure I got the right harp for me, plus purchase it from a good company. I accomplished both by buying the Prelude from Sylvia Woods. So, for everything, I thank you. You can be sure that when I graduate to a pedal harp, I will be calling you to help me decide which one. Thanks again to everyone there for all you've done for me." - J.R., Georgia

"I am so thrilled with my new Triplett Celtic harp. The beautiful instrument and excellent HELPFUL service have made me completely confident in recommending the Sylvia Woods Harp Center as an absolutely reputable, dependable place to do business. I sensed all this initially through the "How to Buy a Harp" and "Teach Yourself" tapes. When people ask "and you actually bought the harp through a CATALOG?" I am happy to tell them how confident I am with the Sylvia Woods Harp Center. Thanks again for everything!" - M.W., Michigan

"Many, many thanks for all of your assistance in helping me chooe my Dusty Strings FH36B harp. I know that I called many times and spoke with each of you and you kindly reassured me throughout the process. Thank you all!  My harp is extraordinary in its tone and the beauty of the figured Bubinga. The harp is now tuned up nicely, and even though I am just a beginning student, we are learning to make beautiful music together!  Many, many thanks! - S.S., Hawaii

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"Thank You" to Sylvia Woods
"You are to be much complimented on your wonderful work you have done for many years now.  I thank you and my pupils do also.  I have been playing since 1934 - - and I will be 78 this year.  I still do weddings (etc.) and church work.  I do have arthritis -- but I practice and do water aerobics.  I have 5 grown children and 12 grandchildren.  4 granddaughters study harp also! It's a great life, isn't it!" -- M.K., Maryland

"I want to thank you for helping me on my path -- your wonderful harping led the way. The harp has brought me much magic, and the open door to a magical world." - D.H., Oregon

"Dear Sylvia, Thank you more than words can say for the harps, the music, the books, the tapes, and for inspiring me again and again. May God bless you always. The harpers and harpists of the world owe a debt to you that will never be forgotten." - B.M., Ohio

"I thank you for introducing me to the harp. I love my harp, it has brought me so much joy these past years. And, you can take credit for showing an "age enhanced" lady how to enrich her life through music". - J.O., Texas

"I've been making great progress, and am now playing the advanced versions of your arrangements (they're gorgeous), and thoroughly enjoying myself. It is the most relaxing and enjoyable thing I do "for myself"!  Beats even bubble baths...!  It has taken me a long time to start (I'm 39!), but I' very happy with the progress I've made, and SO happy that there is an enterprising and talented Sylvia Woods in the world. You have made a very positive difference and deserve to reap the rich reward of personal satisfaction in what you do. THANK YOU!!!" - M S., Canada

"I wanted to tell you how much I love your tape, video and sheet music - that was purchased from you over a year ago.  My daughter is very involved in the Renaissance fairs and thanks to you, I have been able to play many of your songs when I accompany her. Your tape has been my "saving grace" when I get home from a stressful day at work.  For a period of 6 to 8 weeks, I played your tapes constantly. They gave me comfort and peace and made my very stressful job tolerable.  I am so happy to have found your songs and tell everyone I know about your tape, video and music. Even though I have never met you or had an opportunity to visit your store in L.A., I will always consider you my teacher and friend.  Thank you a million times a million.  You have helped make my dreams come true." - M.M, California

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