History of the Harp
There is evidence that harps were being played as early as 3000BC. Strings in these early times would probably have been made of hair or plant fibres. Over the centuries, the shape and form of the harp have been adapted and modified many times. Strings have been added, materials have changed and the classical harp has been furnished with pedals.
At certain times in our history and especially in Scotland, Wales and Ireland, harpers held very important positions in society, often serving as advisors to kings and singing and playing about their achievements. They would often lead the armies into battle with their music. For this they would receive titles and financial rewards. Traditions changed over time, however, until by the end of the eighteenth century only a few players remained in Ireland who could pass on the words and music of earlier times. Fortunately this was realized, and a gathering was organized at which the old tunes were written down. Today the Celtic harp has enjoyed a major revival while the much larger pedal harp remains an important instrument in orchestras around the world.
Not surprisingly, the term ‘harp’ originates from a word meaning ‘pluck’ and the harp has been one of Ireland’s main national emblems since the time of Henry VIII.
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