A Celtic harp is a smaller version of the harp found in the Celtic countries and regions of Europe, particularly in Wales, Ireland, and Brittany. The Celtic harp, also known as the folk harp, is popular among revivalists, folk re-enactors, and beginners. Folk harps come in a variety of sizes and shapes, with octaves ranging from two to six, blades or levers present or not, and strings ranging from 19 to 40, though 34 seems to be the average. A Celtic harper, rather than a harpist, is someone who plays the Celtic harp.
The harp is a stringed instrument with vertically arranged strings within the frame. Harps are usually played in a sitting position, with the harp resting on the harpist’s lap if it’s small enough, or standing next to the harpist if it’s larger. The strings on these multi-stringed instruments are traditionally wedge-shaped and perpendicular to the soundboard. Because of its widespread use, the harp can be found in cultures as diverse as the Celtic nations, Asia, Africa, and Europe.
The harp is associated with thoughtfulness and gentleness in symbolism. It’s also a political and business symbol with strong ties to Ireland. Since the time of Brian Boruma mac Cennetig, also known as Brian Boru in English, the Celtic harp has been associated with Ireland. In 1542, the harp was designated as Ireland’s official symbol. It’s also on the flag of Leinster, one of Ireland’s four historic provinces.
The sound of the Celtic harp is associated with more than just peace and gentility; it is also associated with romance and, to a degree, nostalgia, particularly in the Celtic Diaspora. The sound, on the other hand, varies according to the size of the harp and the materials used to make it. The strings and the frame, specifically the soundboard, are the two main variations. Although traditional Celtic harps are strung with gut, modern harps are now strung with nylon or wire.
Celtic harps are frequently small enough to be held in one’s lap. When compared to the larger and more ornate classical harps, these harps have a number of other fundamental differences. The lack of pedals is a notable feature. Celtic harps can be fixed or have a series of levers that loosen or tighten the strings as needed. The advantage of the lever system is its portability and lightness. The disadvantage is that it is more difficult to perform accidentals and make quick key changes.
The Celtic harp is diatonically tuned, as are most harps. This involves tetrachord patterns with five tones and two semitones within them, similar to tuning a piano. The music is created by plucking strings and changing the sounds with levers.