Some Testimonials & Reviews:
Diana Rowan Test-Drives the SweetHarp
On receiving her first harp - a SweetHarp:
"After approaching Chris for a mini-lesson and intro to harp playing I quickly realized that I wanted to procure a harp and start taking lessons as soon as possible. It just so happened that he had begun designing the SweetHarp–which seemed perfect for my needs in terms of size, cost and sound. Soon after I had a serious decision to make–what color scheme I wanted! As I waited for my harp to be made I dreamed of getting my hands on it for the first time and tried to envision what the finished product would look like. When I finally saw my harp in real life I was speechless - it was even more beautiful than I had imagined. The level of care and craftsmanship was obvious, and it played beautifully and easily. Speaking as an absolute beginner, the process of obtaining my first harp has been a joy, and I feel very lucky that my first harp is a Caswell SweetHarp. I would absolutely recommend Chris as an amazing harp maker, and a great person to start your harp-playing journey with." - JG
On ordering Her SweetHarp::
“When I first saw the prototype on this video it literally took my breath away. I ordered my SweetHarp 29 a couple weeks ago after only seeing a blueprint of it. I just love the rounded design of the soundbox, it is so different and so esthetically beautiful. I am a guitar player and I just love the idea of guitar tuners on my harp. This harp is going to change the world of small harps and I can't wait to be the proud owner of my very own SweetHarp 29. Thanks Chris for envisioning this harp!” - SB
On finding out about my harps on the internet:
“I'm exited to receive the harp in June and wish you a good time making your next batch. I would like to also compliment you on your special designs and say thank you for your inventions. I looked all over the web and liked your harps the best. So thank you for pouring the many hours of work into your designs and making a one of a kind harp at a price that is affordable through your rent to own program.” - KS
“Chris - since I haven't been bringing my harp to lessons, you haven't seen it or heard it for a couple of months. Wait til you hear it - it's waking up, coming alive and developing the resonant bass notes I love so much. "Playing it in" has been part of the learning experience, bonding, hearing the harp mature and come into itself. One day I will even let you play it again!!” - GF
A professional harpist on playing my Rhiannon for the first time:
“First of all, the instrument has an elegant look to it. I found it lovely from a purely visual standpoint. Now, from my practiced hands I noticed that the tone was even from the deep and smooth bass to the bell-like upper strings. The tension was firm and appropriate for expression. I liked very much the progression through the ranges and string composition. I felt it was artfully thought out in that regard…I would happily use your Rhiannon to play for events and recordings. Bravo!” - SS
On using the Rent-To-Own and One Year Trade-up offers:
“When I first approached Chris about building a harp for my young daughter, we had settled on a Butterfly 31-string harp with a few levers. Being that I'm fairly low income, Chris graciously offered montly payments towards the harp (and a nice Dickens Fair discount!), which was a real life-saver, and transformed our longings for such a harp into a reality.
As the Butterfly was being constructed and my daughter began formal harp lessons, it became apparent that in very short order she would need a more sophisticated instrument capable of growing with her. The original harp, at that point paid off, would now be "traded up" to a Rhiannon, a truly beautiful instrument, and one that will serve Sara well for many years to come. Understanding my financial situation, Chris generously extended us a rent-to-own package, so that I could apply the balance previously paid for the Buttlerfly towards the Rhiannon, and now I'm paying down the Rhiannon at a very management rate! The harp has changed, the income not so much -- so we couldn't really do this without such a program.
We are delighted with the Rhiannon, and I truly appreciate and value the Caswell rent-to-own program, for I otherwise would not have been able to afford this handmade Celtic beauty.” - JN
A professional harpist reviewing the Gwydion at one of my concerts:
"The Gwydion was magnificent…IF you play wire, well, I don't think I've ever heard better than Caswell's Gwydion." - ML