Downey Harps was initially conceived as an online presence for the sale of my harps though quickly developed into a research website. From time to time harps are still available for sale.
My interest in harps dates back to 1988 when Beaconsfield artist and luthier, Gordon Davey, generously spent a year's worth of weekends teaching me the finer points of harp making. I subsequently studied Musical Instrument Technology at undergraduate and postgraduate level.
Over the past three years I have undertaken extensive research into the 19th-century Erat harp company and in doing so have revealed a complex web of relationships between the London based makers, their suppliers, teachers and harpists.
About Me
New information from previously unknown documentary sources is altering the modern view of the Georgian harp, its makers and music.
Significant research is being undertaken by musicologists into 18th and 19th century technique and repertoire, and a wealth of music is being rediscovered and revealed to new audiences.
I am currently deepening my Erat research and commencing and in-depth study of the Erard and Schwieso businesses. Harps on this site are not for sale unless otherwise stated.
