I got here a bit late for the antique bidding I see..**BG**(:<))

You're getting lots of good suggestions and I'll offer 2 simple ones. There is a lot of good instruction material available and I'd check into some of that. There are several good books (including a classic by Becky Blackley) and some excellent videos by two great players, the somewhat unbelievable Bryan Bowers and John Sebastian, probably available elsewhere, but definitely at Elderly Instruments (click here).

The second suggestion is just a matter of taste. I too play with the 'harp (its really an auto-chorded zither, but the name "Autozither" ain't got much appeal and only and Old Poop like Bill would buy one) as Bill and Don, but perhaps a bit higher than Bill. I use a strap and I seriously recommend it as it eases some of the pressure. Strap buttons are not difficult to install, but if it turns out you do have a Vintage Autoharp, don't do it!!! Do as Don suggests and pick up a newer one. But the strap does free up things considerably.

Spaw