> 1) Some dust has built up on the discs and disc arms - has anyone ever
> needed to clean them and what is the best way? I was thinking of
> taking a light dry paintbrush to them. Should I bother? Should I
> at all? There also appears to be some sticky grime on the discs as
> well, but it won't bother me unless it's somehow bad for the harp.
>
> 2) The action was already a bit dirty and grimy when I got the harp.
> It's probably a bit harder for the dust to get up inside the
> action, but should I consider getting the whole action cleaned?
As Kim suggested, you can have it looked at by a technician but for the
most part, don't worry. Appearances quite often don't mean much, as long
as everything works it should be ok.
>
> 3) Does anyone have any opinions on dust covers? My thought was just
> to call Lyon & Healy and buy their semi-grand cover - it seems like
> there could be some cheaper options, though. Does anyone know of
> any?
If you're NEVER going to move it you still don't really need a cover.
The only time I ever put a cover on my harps is when they are going out
on a gig. I don't know what L & H's covers are going for these days but
W & W Harps, 386 W. Grand Ave., Chicago, (I don't have their # with me)
have some nice covers for around $100.00. If you will be moving the
instrument frequently consider having some leather sewn on the outside of
the cover as well as the inside near the tuning pins at the neck. It
will save wear & tear on the cover as it goes in and out of the care
> 4) It's time to buy a harp cart. I've tried out the ones that have
> three wheels on each side and climb up stairs, and I don't like
> them. I like the simple ones with two big wheels. I've seen ads
> in the Harp Journal for simple ones, but was wondering if anyone
> had any opinions on which ones they thought were best/easiest/long
> lasting. I've seem some treads on wheels on some wear out quickly
> and was wondering if they all do? Does anyone have a good sturdy
> old cart they could tell me where they got it from?
I have an old McKay cart which I've had for more than 10 years. The
wheels aren't worn at all--I didn't realize that this could happen. Yes,
I know he's not making them any more but the idea is good. I've tried
the 3 wheel models and they don't maneuver very well. Remember, *weight*
plays as big a roll on the ability to traverse stairs as design. If the
cart is heavy then you have to lift that as well as your instrument. I have
yet to find the perfect cart which can handle stairs easily. Any more
than 3 or 4 stairs and I need someone to help carry the harp. Find
something light and easy to use!
Julie