To hire a harpist in Dubai, decide which moments you want live music for, pick a line up, and send the date, venue, timings, guest count and your songs to the team. You then get profiles of the harpists who are free, with their previous work and repertoire, and a written quote. Book four to six months ahead for the widest choice. The seven steps below cover what to decide first.
1. Choose the moments
A harp is at its best in the quieter parts of an event: the arrival, a ceremony, a drinks reception, a dinner or a hotel welcome. For a party peak or a big reveal, a laser harp show is the better fit. Write down the start and end time of each moment you want music for. This sets the hours, which sets most of the price. See harpist prices.
2. Pick a line up
A solo harpist suits most ceremonies, dinners and welcomes. Add a violin or a cello for a fuller sound, or book a trio or two harpists for a large ballroom or a formal gala. See harp duo and trio.
3. Choose the songs
You choose the tracks the harpist plays. Harpists play classical pieces, lounge and jazz tunes, and pop and modern songs arranged for the harp. Send your list early, and mark the songs that must be played at a set moment, such as a wedding entrance. The harpist fills the rest of the set in the same style.
4. Plan the space
A full size concert harp is tall and heavy, and it needs a flat, firm floor. Plan a spot for the harp and a stool where guests can see it, away from air conditioning vents, speakers and busy service doors. For a standing look, some harpists play a lighter harp on a stand. Share the floor plan with the venue and the team.
5. Decide on sound
In a small room, the harp sounds lovely without amplification. In a ballroom, outdoors or with a big guest list, ask for sound so the music reaches everyone. The team can set up a sound system, or check whether the harp can connect to the venue's own.
6. Think about the weather
Outdoor events in Dubai are best in the cooler months. Sun, heat, humidity and wind all affect a harp's strings and tuning. Place the harp in the shade, out of the wind, and allow time for the harpist to set up and tune before guests arrive. For a summer event, an indoor or covered spot is the safer plan.
7. Agree the look and confirm
You can choose the harpist's costume from a selection of themes, to match your colours or your theme. Then review the harpist profiles, pick your harpist and confirm the terms in writing: date, times, line up, songs, sound, costume and setup. A few days before the event, share the final running order and a contact on site.
Send your brief
Send the type of event, the date and times, the venue, the guest count and your music wishes on WhatsApp or through the quote form. For wedding details, see wedding harpist. For company events, see corporate events and galas.
