The harp is one of the world’s most ancient musical instruments. The ancient Egyptians used a type of harp over 6,000 years ago. Homer’s poem, The Iliad, tells us of the beauty of harp playing in ancient Greece. Greek paintings from this time show the harp as a T-shaped instrument with strings. The three-sided harp we know today comes from this basic model. The modern harp uses a triangular frame to give stability to the instrument and tension to the strings.
The harp was an important instrument in Europe a thousand years ago. Harp players were important people. They worked for rich and important people, including the king. Harp music has played an important role in many European countries.
The harp is the national symbol of Ireland. Not surprisingly, Ireland boasts many famous harpists. Perhaps the most famous Irish harpist ever was Turlough O’Carolan. O’Carolan was blind but he composed many of the best-loved tunes for the harp over 300 years ago.
Wales also has a rich harp tradition. Starting in the late 17th century, the Welsh adapted and improved a type of Italian harp that we now call a ‘Welsh Harp’. A Welsh Harp rests on the harpist’s left shoulder. Welsh harps are also larger than those of Ireland or Scotland. A harpist plays an Irish or Scottish harp with their fingertips. Harpists use more of their fingers to play the Welsh harp. An Orchestral Harp is a very large instrument that stands up to two metres high. Orchestral Harps have pedals that change the pitch of the strings. These harps give a strong sound that can reach a large audience.
GLOSSARY
Symbol - a picture or shape to represent something.
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