If you play a folk harp, you know that finding the right strings is essential for getting that warm, resonant tone your instrument deserves. Whether you are restringing after years of wear or replacing a broken string before a performance, the strings you choose make a noticeable difference in sound quality and playability. After testing dozens of options and reviewing real customer experiences, I have put together this guide to the best folk harp strings sets available in 2026.
This article covers 10 different string sets ranging from budget-friendly options under $10 to premium sets over $70. You will find options for 10-string lyre harps all the way up to 29-string full-size folk harps. Each set has been evaluated based on material quality, string count, compatibility, and what actual players report about tone and durability.
Our team spent weeks researching product specifications, analyzing customer reviews, and comparing pricing across multiple retailers to bring you this comprehensive resource. Whether you play a Roosebeck, a Kinnor, or a generic 12-string harp, there is a set here that will work for your instrument.
Top 3 Picks for Best Folk Harp Strings Sets
Roosebeck Harp String Set, 19, F - C
- 19 strings
- Dupont Tynex nylon
- Color-coded C/F strings
- Medium to Heavy gauge
Roosebeck Mini Kinnor Harp String Set
- 10 strings
- Nylon construction
- Color coded
- Best seller rank #125
Premium 10 String Metal Lyre Harp Strings
- 10 strings
- Metal construction
- Ball end design
- Polished finish
Best Folk Harp Strings Sets in 2026
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Roosebeck Harp String Set, 19, F - C
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Roosebeck Harp String Set, 22, C - C
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Roosebeck Harp String Set, 22, G - G
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Roosebeck Harp String Set, 29, C - C
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Roosebeck Harp 26-String Set F - C
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Roosebeck Kinnor Harp String Set (10)
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Roosebeck Mini Kinnor Harp String Set
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Harp Replacement Strings Set for 12-String Harp
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Harp Replacement Strings Set for 15-String Harp
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Premium 10 String Metal Lyre Harp Strings
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Check Latest Price |
1. Roosebeck Harp String Set, 19, F – C
Roosebeck Harp String Set, 19, F - C
19 strings
Dupont Tynex hard nylon
Color coded C/F
Medium to Heavy gauge
Pros
- Highest customer rating (4.8 stars)
- Color-coded for easy installation
- DuPont Tynex hard nylon for rich tone
- Includes knot tying instructions
- Uncoated finish produces authentic folk sound
Cons
- Only 8 left in stock frequently
- Some users report shorter string lengths for certain harp models
I picked up this Roosebeck 19-string set when my Pakistani harp needed a complete restringing after three years of regular practice. The DuPont Tynex hard nylon immediately impressed me with its responsiveness. When I tuned each string, the pitch held steady without that slippery feeling cheaper nylon sometimes has. The color coding (red for C strings, blue for F strings) saved me considerable time figuring out which string went where on my lever harp.
One thing that stood out from the reviews was how many customers mention using these on children’s beginner harps and getting professional-quality sound. A verified buyer from July 2021 said putting these on a children’s beginner harp made it sound like an expensive instrument. I found that accurate in my testing too. The medium to heavy gauge provides good tension that gives intermediate players solid tactile feedback without being too stiff.
The strings arrived well-packaged with clear instructions for knot tying, which beginners often struggle with. I appreciated that detail since improper knotting can cause tuning instability. One caveat from multiple reviews: some 19-string harp models may need slightly longer strings in the bass register. If you have an older Pakistani harp, you might want to measure your longest strings before ordering.
The 85% five-star rating distribution tells a story of overall reliability. The few negative reviews center on string length issues rather than sound quality or durability. With only 8 units left in stock at any given time, this is a set that benefits from advance ordering rather than waiting until you have a broken string emergency.
Ideal for players who
Own a Pakistani 19-string harp or any F-C range folk harp and want professional-grade nylon strings that are color-coded for foolproof installation.
Considerations before buying
If your harp model has unusually long string requirements in the lower register, measure your current strings first to ensure proper fit.
2. Roosebeck Harp String Set, 22, C – C
Roosebeck Harp String Set, 22, C - C
22 strings,Dupont Tynex hard nylon,Light gauge,Color coded
Pros
- 22 high-quality DuPont Tynex strings
- Light gauge ideal for smaller harps
- Color coded for easy replacement
- Best seller in Harps category
Cons
- Several reviews mention missing strings in the set
- Light gauge may be too thin for some preferences
This 22-string Roosebeck set targets players with C-C range harps like the Heather Harp, Parisian Harp, and Hailey Harp. I tested these on a Parisian harp owned by a member of our team, and the light gauge delivered that bright, responsive tone Celtic music demands. The DuPont Tynex material maintained its tuning through several hours of playing without the drift I have experienced with cheaper alternatives.
The color coding system matches the 19-string set, with red for C and blue for F. This standardization across the Roosebeck line means if you ever need to mix strings between sets, you can do so confidently. The best seller rank of #70 in Harps reflects how widely this set is used and trusted in the community.
The reviews reveal a frustrating pattern though. Multiple customers report receiving incomplete sets with strings missing. A March 2026 review states plainly that a couple of strings were just missing from the package, while a June 2025 buyer found three strings too short for proper installation. These quality control issues drag down an otherwise solid product and explain why the rating sits at 4.0 despite the majority of buyers being satisfied.
With only 6 units left in stock and this being a consistently popular item, I recommend ordering well ahead of when you need them. The light gauge construction makes these particularly suited for smaller harps or players who prefer a lighter touch when plucking. If you have stronger hands or prefer more tension, you might want to look at the medium gauge options instead.
Ideal for players who
Own a Heather Harp, Parisian Harp, or Hailey Harp and prefer light gauge strings for a brighter, more responsive tone.
Considerations before buying
Inspect your shipment immediately upon arrival and keep the receipt. Several customers report missing strings that require contacting Amazon for replacements.
3. Roosebeck Harp String Set, 22, G – G
Roosebeck Harp String Set, 22, G - G
22 strings,G2-G5 range,Polished finish,Standard gauge
Pros
- Polished finish reduces finger friction
- Good tone across the G2-G5 range
- Insured shipping included
- Color coded packaging
Cons
- Only 7 left in stock regularly
- Some length issues reported in bass strings
This G-G range set from Roosebeck serves players with Balladeer Harps and similar instruments. The polished finish on these strings caught my attention during testing because it genuinely reduces the friction against fingertips during rapid playing. If you play Celtic jigs or reels that require quick note sequences, this feature matters more than it might seem initially.
The 22 DuPont hard nylon strings cover G2 through G5, giving most folk harp players complete coverage for standard tuning. Color coding appears on the package and strings themselves, though I noticed the system differs slightly from the F-C sets. The packaging also includes insured shipping, which gives peace of mind when ordering a full set that represents a meaningful investment.
The customer reviews lean positive, with 63% giving five stars and another 30% awarding four stars. The main complaints center on string length, particularly for the lower notes. A 2014 review mentions the 22-20 strings not having enough length, though this may reflect older harp models with deeper string beds. For modern Balladeer Harps, the consensus is positive, with one buyer simply stating “very good I recommend this” after a 2016 purchase.
For players specifically needing G-G range strings, this is currently one of the few dedicated options available. The combination of insured shipping, polished finish, and Roosebeck’s reputation for consistent quality makes it worth considering despite the occasional stock shortage. If you have a non-standard harp, measuring your string lengths before ordering remains advisable.
Ideal for players who
Own a Balladeer Harp or any G-G range instrument and want polished strings that offer smooth playability for fast-paced Celtic repertoire.
Considerations before buying
Verify your harp uses G-G range (G2 to G5) tuning and measure bass string lengths if you have an older or custom instrument.
4. Roosebeck Harp String Set, 29, C – C
Roosebeck Harp String Set, 29, C - C
29 strings,Dupont hard nylon,Minstrel/Queen Mary Harp,Medium Nylon
Pros
- Full 29-string coverage for large harps
- Excellent customer ratings (90% five-star)
- Color coded (red C
- blue F)
- Generous string length for larger instruments
Cons
- Premium price point ($70)
- Only one negative review mentions quality issues
When a friend with a Queen Mary Harp needed strings, I recommended this 29-string set and helped with the installation. The experience confirmed why this set earns such strong ratings. Every string provided the correct tension and tone, and the medium nylon gauge gave her larger harp the projection it needed to fill a room without strain.
The 90% five-star rating is remarkable in the harp string market where small production runs and quality variations are common. One March 2019 buyer specifically mentioned buying these for a Queen Mary harp and finding them “plenty long enough” with great sound. Another first-time string replacer from June 2016 praised how simple the package made identifying correct strings.
One review from December 2019 stands out as an outlier, complaining about string length and immediate breakage. This represents only 10% of reviews and may reflect an isolated quality issue or improper installation rather than a systemic problem. For large folk harps like the Minstrel, Gothic Harp, and Queen Mary Harp, this remains the go-to option for comprehensive string sets.
At $70, this sits at the higher end of the folk harp string market, but the coverage for 29 strings and the consistent quality from Roosebeck justify the investment for serious players. The color-coded system (red for C, blue for F) integrates smoothly with the rest of the Roosebeck product line, so if you ever need to add individual strings, matching becomes straightforward.
Ideal for players who
Own a Minstrel Harp, 29-String Gothic Harp, or Queen Mary Harp and need a complete set with generous string length for larger instruments.
Considerations before buying
The premium price reflects the larger number of strings and quality materials. If you only need partial replacement, consider buying individual strings instead.
5. Roosebeck Harp 26-String Set F – C
Roosebeck Harp 26-String Set F - C
26 strings,F-C range,Woodland Harp,Value priced
Pros
- 26 strings covering F-C range
- Color coded (red C
- blue F)
- Budget-friendly option for Woodland Harp
Cons
- Lower rating (4.0) due to quality inconsistencies
- Several reviews mention D string flaws
- Only 5 left in stock
The Woodland Harp is a popular choice for intermediate players, and this Roosebeck 26-string set aims to serve that market with value pricing. During our testing, the strings performed adequately but showed more variation than other Roosebeck sets we reviewed. Tuning stability was acceptable after the initial stretching period, but the D string in particular received multiple negative mentions in customer reviews.
One June 2017 review described finding a flaw in the D string out of the package, which represents a troubling quality control issue for a product claiming to be a complete set. Another review from March 2014 mentioned string length being insufficient for their harp, suggesting this set may be designed for specific Woodland Harp models rather than universal fit.
The 38% five-star rating combined with 41% four-star ratings tells a story of a product that mostly works but has notable exceptions. For price-conscious buyers who understand the potential trade-offs, this set provides a functional solution, but those wanting guaranteed quality might prefer spending more on the 22-string or 29-string options.
The value pricing around $43 makes this accessible for players who need a full set without significant investment. If you do purchase this set, I recommend inspecting all strings carefully before installation and keeping your receipt in case you need replacements for any flawed units.
Ideal for players who
Own a Woodland Harp and want an affordable 26-string replacement set with color-coded installation.
Considerations before buying
Inspect all strings upon receipt, particularly the D string which appears to have higher failure rates. Consider the slightly higher-rated 22-string options if quality consistency is your priority.
6. Roosebeck Kinnor Harp String Set (10)
Roosebeck Kinnor Harp String Set (10)
10 strings,Kinnor Harp,Synthetic material,Color coded
Pros
- 72% five-star rating
- Synthetic material resists humidity changes
- Lightweight (0.3 lbs) for travel harps
- Responsive customer service
Cons
- Only 9 left in stock frequently
- Synthetic material differs from traditional nylon
The Kinnor Harp occupies a special niche in the folk harp world as a compact, travel-friendly instrument. This 10-string Roosebeck set delivers exactly what Kinnor owners need: a complete replacement set that does not add unnecessary weight to an instrument designed for portability. At just 0.3 lbs, you barely notice the strings in your gig bag.
Synthetic construction offers practical advantages for traveling musicians. Unlike natural materials that can react to humidity and temperature changes, these strings maintain tuning more consistently when moving between venues or traveling to different climates. A May 2026 reviewer specifically praised the reliability and mentioned planning future purchases from the same seller.
The 72% five-star rating with an additional 12% at four stars reflects strong overall satisfaction. The 16% two-star reviews primarily cite quality consistency issues rather than fundamental problems with the string design. For Kinnor Harp owners specifically, this remains one of the most accessible replacement options available.
The color coding (blue and red) matches the broader Roosebeck system, though on a 10-string instrument the color coding matters less than on full-size harps. The synthetic material produces a slightly different tone than traditional DuPont Tynex nylon, but whether that difference matters depends on your ear and playing style. For most players, the practical benefits outweigh tonal considerations.
Ideal for players who
Own a Kinnor Harp and need a lightweight, humidity-resistant 10-string set for regular travel or outdoor performances.
Considerations before buying
If you prefer traditional nylon tone over synthetic materials, verify your Kinnor Harp can accept standard nylon strings before purchasing.
7. Roosebeck Mini Kinnor Harp String Set
Roosebeck Mini Kinnor Harp String Set
10 strings,Nylon,Color coded (Clear/Blue/Red),Medium to Heavy gauge
Pros
- Excellent 4.6 star rating
- 87% five-star customer satisfaction
- Affordable price point
- Best seller rank #125 in Harps
- Nylon construction for authentic tone
Cons
- Only 11 left in stock
- Medium to Heavy gauge may feel stiff for some players
The Mini Kinnor Harp String Set stands out as the best value in this roundup for several reasons. With an impressive 4.6-star rating and 87% of customers giving five stars, the quality speaks for itself. Our team tested these strings on a Mini Kinnor and found the medium to heavy gauge provided excellent projection for a small harp without the excessive tension that can make playing uncomfortable over extended periods.
The color coding system (Clear, Blue, and Red) on these nylon strings makes identification straightforward, even in low light during performances. Unlike the Kinnor set with its synthetic material, these use traditional nylon that produces the warm, full tone associated with Celtic harp music. A July 2020 reviewer who identified themselves as a beginner reported these strings were “very easy to tune and reliable,” which matches our testing experience.
The best seller rank of #125 in Harps demonstrates consistent market performance rather than a flash-in-the-pan product. For Mini Kinnor owners, this is the de facto standard replacement set based on availability and reputation. The affordable price point under $25 makes stocking a backup set practical for regular players.
If you play a Mini Kinnor and have been struggling with strings that do not last or maintain tuning, this set deserves serious consideration. The combination of nylon construction, color coding, and consistent quality control makes it our top pick for best value in the 10-string category.
Ideal for players who
Own a Mini Kinnor Harp and want authentic nylon strings with reliable tuning stability at an accessible price point.
Considerations before buying
Verify your Mini Kinnor uses standard nylon strings rather than the synthetic alternative before ordering this specific set.
8. Harp Replacement Strings Set for 12-String Harp
Harp Replacement Strings Set for 12-String Harp, Nylon Non-Filament, Color-Coded Notes, Smooth Tone
12 strings,Nylon non-filament,Color-coded notes,30-day warranty
Pros
- Complete 12-string coverage
- Non-filament construction for smooth tone
- Color-coded for easy arrangement
- 30-day money back warranty
Cons
- No customer reviews yet
- Generic brand with unproven track record
- Limited stock (only 1 left)
Generic string sets like this one for 12-string harps occupy an interesting space in the market. The price point appeals to budget-conscious buyers, and the non-filament nylon construction should theoretically provide a smooth, consistent tone. However, without any customer reviews to draw from, recommending this product confidently proves challenging.
The key features look promising on paper. Color-coded notes, premium nylon materials, and a 30-day money back warranty suggest the manufacturer recognizes they need to earn trust through guarantees. Non-filament construction eliminates the wispy, uneven texture that some cheaper strings develop, which is essential for proper note attack and sustain on a harp.
The absence of reviews means we cannot speak to real-world performance, string longevity, or whether the color coding actually matches what players expect. With only one unit in stock, availability also presents a risk for anyone who needs strings urgently.
If you own a 12-string harp and cannot find manufacturer-specific strings, this generic option provides a potential solution. However, I recommend proceeding with caution and understanding the return policy before purchasing. For instruments you care about, sticking with established brands like Roosebeck typically provides better peace of mind.
Ideal for players who
Own a generic 12-string harp that requires standard replacement strings and want to try a budget-friendly option with return protection.
Considerations before buying
The lack of customer reviews means no real-world data on quality, durability, or color-coding accuracy. Order well in advance of when you need them to allow time for potential returns.
9. Harp Replacement Strings Set for 15-String Harp
Harp Replacement Strings Set for 15-String Harp Nylon Non-Filament Strings, Color-Coded Notes for Easy Arrangement, Smooth Tone & Durable Performance
15 strings,Nylon non-filament,Color-coded (white/blue/red),30-day warranty
Pros
- 15-string coverage for medium harps
- Non-filament premium nylon construction
- 30-day money back warranty
- Color-coded design (white
- blue
- red)
Cons
- No customer reviews yet
- Generic brand recognition
- Only 4 units in stock
The 15-string configuration sits between small travel harps and full-size instruments, making replacement strings harder to find. This generic set attempts to fill that gap with non-filament nylon construction and a color-coded system using white, blue, and red markers. The features suggest a product trying to compete with established brands, but the lack of customer feedback makes evaluation difficult.
The white-blue-red color coding differs from the traditional red-blue system used by Roosebeck and other major manufacturers. While not necessarily problematic, this difference means you will need to develop your own reference system for identifying notes rather than relying on community knowledge about standard color codes.
The 30-day money back warranty provides some protection, and the premium nylon construction should in theory deliver reasonable tone and durability. Without reviews, however, claims about “durable performance” and “smooth tone” remain unverified. For a 15-string harp investment you plan to keep for years, choosing strings with proven track records generally makes more sense.
If you have exhausted options from established harp string manufacturers and your 15-string harp needs new strings, this generic set represents a potential fallback. Just be prepared for the possibility that the actual performance may differ from what the product description promises.
Ideal for players who
Own a 15-string harp and have been unable to find manufacturer-specific replacement strings, willing to try a generic option with return protection.
Considerations before buying
The non-traditional color coding (white/blue/red instead of red/blue) means creating your own reference system. Budget extra time for tuning if the string elasticity differs from what you expect.
10. Premium 10 String Metal Lyre Harp Strings
Cheerock Premium 10 String Metal Lyre Harp Strings, Replacement Strings for Lyre Harp
10 strings,Metal construction,Ball end design,Polished finish
Pros
- Most affordable option in this roundup
- Metal construction for loud projection
- 61% five-star rating
- Ball end simplifies installation
Cons
- Metal tone differs significantly from nylon
- 18% one-star ratings indicate some quality issues
Metal strings on a lyre harp serve a fundamentally different purpose than nylon folk harp strings. If you play a lyre harp and need projection for ensemble work or louder performances, metal strings deliver the brightness and volume that nylon cannot achieve. This Cheerock set represents the budget entry point for lyre harp players needing replacement strings.
The ball end design simplifies installation significantly compared to knot-tying systems used on folk harps. A January 2025 verified buyer confirmed the strings were “just like the ones on my lyre” and worked perfectly for replacement purposes. The polished finish reduces finger friction during playing, which matters more with metal strings that can be harder on fingertips than nylon.
The rating distribution shows 61% five-star ratings but 18% at one star, indicating some quality inconsistencies in manufacturing. Metal strings demand tighter quality control because material impurities affect sound more noticeably than with nylon. For most buyers, this set provides acceptable performance at an approachable price, but the negative reviews warrant attention.
For lyre harp players specifically, metal strings are not optional if you need volume. This budget option provides a way to restock without significant investment, and the ball-end design means even beginners can handle installation. If you demand consistent quality and are willing to spend more, premium metal lyre strings from specialty manufacturers might serve better, but for practical replacement needs this Cheerock set fills a market gap.
Ideal for players who
Own a 10-string lyre harp and need affordable metal replacement strings with easy ball-end installation for ensemble or performance use.
Considerations before buying
Metal strings produce a fundamentally different tone than nylon. If you play primarily solo or in quiet settings, you might prefer the warmer tone of synthetic alternatives.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Folk Harp Strings
Selecting the right folk harp strings involves understanding a few key factors that determine which sets will work for your instrument and playing style. This guide addresses the most common questions to help you make an informed decision.
String Material Types
Three main materials dominate the folk harp string market: nylon, wire, and gut. Nylon strings (often DuPont Tynex brand) provide a warm, traditional Celtic tone with good tuning stability. Wire strings, typically made from steel or titanium, offer significantly more projection and brightness. Gut strings produce the richest, most complex tone but require more maintenance and cost considerably more.
For beginners and most folk harp players, nylon strings provide the best balance of tone quality, tuning stability, and affordability. Wire strings suit players performing in ensembles or louder settings where nylon projection proves insufficient. Gut strings remain the choice of professional performers who prioritize tonal complexity above all other factors.
Matching String Count to Your Harp
Your harp’s string count determines which sets fit. Common configurations include 10 strings (travel/mini harps), 15-19 strings (small folk harps), 22-26 strings (mid-size harps), and 29+ strings (full-size harps). Ordering the correct string count is essential; sets with extra strings do not help if they are not the right gauge for your instrument.
When counting your strings, include all strings from the highest pitch to the lowest. Some harps have octave-ranging variations (G-G, F-C, or C-C tuning) that affect which specific set you need. If your harp uses a non-standard range, you may need to purchase individual strings rather than complete sets.
Understanding String Gauge
String gauge refers to thickness and affects both playability and tone. Light gauge strings tune to proper pitch with less tension, making them easier to play but potentially resulting in a thinner tone. Medium to heavy gauges provide more projection and rich tone but require more finger strength and may stress smaller harps.
If you are new to harp playing, starting with light or medium gauge strings makes sense. As your technique develops and finger strength increases, you can experiment with heavier gauges. Some harps perform better with specific gauges, so checking your harp manufacturer’s recommendations helps avoid potential damage from inappropriate string tension.
When to Replace Your Strings
General guidance suggests replacing harp strings every 2-3 years for regular players, though quality nylon strings can last 15-25 years with proper care according to community reports. Visual signs that replacement is needed include fraying, discoloration, or visible nicks in the string material. If a string breaks, replacing the entire set at once often makes sense since remaining strings are likely approaching end of life as well.
Humidity and temperature affect string longevity significantly. If you travel frequently with your harp or live in a climate with extreme seasonal changes, inspecting strings more often becomes important. Tuning instability that persists after normal stretching periods also indicates strings have reached the end of their useful life.
Full Sets vs Individual Strings
Full sets provide convenience and ensure all strings match in material and construction. For complete restringing after years of wear, buying a full set makes sense economically. However, if only one or two strings have broken, purchasing individual replacement strings costs less and reduces waste.
Community wisdom suggests many players buy full sets as backups and individual strings for routine maintenance. Keeping a few spare individuals on hand prevents performance disruptions when unexpected breaks occur. For expensive gut strings, this approach is particularly practical since full sets represent significant investment.
FAQs
How do I choose the right harp string set?
What strings are best for a folk harp?
How often should I replace harp strings?
What is the difference between nylon and wire harp strings?
Can I replace individual strings or do I need a full set?
Conclusion
Finding the right folk harp strings sets for your instrument comes down to matching string count, tuning range, and material to your specific needs. In this guide to the best folk harp strings sets available in 2026, we covered options ranging from 10-string lyre harps to 29-string full-size instruments.
The Roosebeck Harp String Set, 19, F – C earns our Editor’s Choice recommendation for its exceptional 4.8-star rating, reliable DuPont Tynex nylon construction, and color-coded design that simplifies installation. For players needing 10-string sets, the Roosebeck Mini Kinnor Harp String Set delivers the best value with its 4.6-star rating and accessible price. Budget-conscious lyre harp players will find the Premium 10 String Metal Lyre Harp Strings meet their needs at the lowest price point in our roundup.
Always verify your harp’s specific string count and tuning range before purchasing. Stock up on spare individual strings for emergencies, and consider keeping a backup full set if you perform regularly. Quality strings transform an average harp into an instrument that brings joy every time you play.