What Is a Table Harp?

A table harp is a small stringed instrument that can be used as a novelty ornament, a miniature version of a regular harp, or a horizontally played chordophone. Table harps with decorative embellishments resemble larger harps but are much smaller and often have decorative embellishments. The ones that are slightly larger have more strings, allowing them to be played. Because it is strung horizontally and laid flat for playing, a third type of instrument known as a table harp differs from a regular harp in appearance.

The tiniest version of a table harp can be found on festive buffet tables and among home furnishings at events with Celtic decor. They are typically 15 inches (38 cm) tall with fewer than ten strings. Because of its small size and limited number of strings, the harp is only capable of playing a few notes and chords. Because the main purpose of this type of instrument is to be decorative, it frequently has decorative embellishments on the wood, especially on the soundbox.

Baharps are slightly larger table harps that can also be used as decorations, though their larger size makes them easier to use as instruments. This type of table harp is usually at least 20 inches tall (51 cm) and has several more strings than the smallest ones. These harps are frequently embellished so that they can be used as decorations as well as a toy or first instrument for small children. Because of the extra strings, simple songs can be played, making these instruments more versatile than smaller harps.

Harps have evolved into many different shapes and sizes over time, and the guzheng, a Chinese instrument, is one of them. The strings are stretched across the top of a soundbox and played while the instrument is lying flat, similar to a zither. Although the guzheng is similar to a zither, it is more commonly known as the Chinese table harp. Throughout history, instruments with a similar construction have been played in a variety of cultures and have been referred to as various types of harps, including the table harp.