The roots of Hidden Valley Harps go back to when Dorinne
Smidderks was taken to a youth symphony concert as a 4-year-old. When the
curtain went up, she knew immediately that she wanted to play the big, shiny,
gold instrument. She was told to take 5 years of piano lessons before attempting
to learn to play the harp. This did not thrill her, but 5 years later her
parents were able to purchase a used pedal harp and her career as a harpist
began.
During her senior year of high school, thanks to her helpful older brother,
she met Lee Yoder. They went on to attend the same college where they became
engaged. They married in 1955 and in the years following had three children
– Lisa, Scott, and Faylene.
Dorinne and Lee’s love for music was instilled in the three kids so as they
got old enough, learning to play the harp was a natural step. Since they
were not in a position to provide each of the kids with a pedal harp, and
with Lee’s engineering training, he told Dorinne that he would make a harp
for each of them. In 1974, with some expert advice from Robbie Robinson,
Lee built the first Leprechaun model harps. |
 |
The Yoder’s, known as the “5 Harps”, were asked to perform in many locations
around Southern California. At these concerts there were several people
interested in the small harps. “Who made them?” “Where did they come from?”
“Can he make one for me?”
So, in 1975, Hidden Valley Harps was born. We now have three models: Minuet,
Petite, and Leprechaun. We are well known for our beautiful sound, especially
the extended soundboard models. We have sold harps to customers in over
40 states and 12 countries around the world.
Scott Yoder is now the owner and harp builder of Hidden Valley Harps, after
working with Lee in the harp shop for many years. His wife, Kristy, helps
with the office work.
Lisa, Scott’s older sister, is a harp teacher in the North San Diego County
area. |
