The harp, a stringed instrument with a rich and melodious sound, has been a staple in various musical traditions around the world for centuries. Its unique design and versatility have allowed it to evolve into several distinct types, each with its own characteristics and playing styles. In this article, we will explore the different types of harps, their histories, constructions, and the music they are best suited for.
Overview of the Harp
Before diving into the specific types of harps, it’s essential to understand the basic structure and function of this instrument. A harp typically consists of a resonating body (or soundbox), a neck, and a series of strings stretched between them. The strings are plucked with the fingers or a plectrum to produce sound. The resonating body amplifies the sound, creating a warm and resonant tone.
Types of Harps
Lever Harp
One of the most popular types of harps is the lever harp, also known as the Celtic harp or folk harp. This type of harp is characterized by its relatively small size and the use of levers (or mechanical levers) to change the pitch of the strings. Lever harps are popular in folk and traditional music, particularly in Celtic and Scandinavian countries.
Construction and Features
Lever harps typically have 22 to 40 strings.
The levers allow players to raise or lower the pitch of individual strings by a semitone or whole tone, enabling a wider range of musical expression.
The resonating body is often made of wood, with a decorative soundboard and back.
Playing Style
Lever harps are played sitting down, with the instrument resting on the player’s lap or between the knees.
The strings are plucked with the fingers or a plectrum, and the levers are used to change the pitch as needed.
Pedal Harp
The pedal harp, also known as the symphony harp or concert harp, is the largest and most complex type of harp. It is widely used in orchestral and solo concert settings due to its powerful sound and versatility.
Construction and Features
Pedal harps have 47 strings, ranging from low bass notes to high treble notes.
The most distinctive feature of the pedal harp is its seven pedals, which are used to change the pitch of the strings in
semitone increments. This allows the player to access a wide range of notes without having to retune the instrument.
The resonating body is large and made of high-quality wood, with an intricately carved soundboard and back.
Playing Style
Pedal harps are played standing up, with the instrument supported by a harp stand or player’s body.
The strings are plucked with the fingers, and the pedals are used to change the pitch as needed. The player must coordinate
the use of their hands and feet to play complex musical passages.
Electric Harp
The electric harp is a modern innovation that combines the traditional sound of the harp with electronic amplification and effects. This type of harp is popular in contemporary music settings, such as jazz, rock, and pop.
Construction and Features
Electric harps can vary greatly in size and design, but they typically have a resonating body, neck, and strings similar to traditional harps.
The main difference is the addition of pickups or transducers that capture the sound of the strings and transmit it to an amplifier or sound system.
Some electric harps also have built-in effects, such as reverberation or distortion, to further enhance the sound.
Playing Style
Electric harps can be played in a similar manner to traditional harps, with the strings plucked with the fingers or a plectrum.
The player can use the amplifier and effects to shape the sound and create unique musical textures.
Lap Harp or Autoharp
The lap harp, also known as the autoharp, is a smaller, more portable type of harp that is often played by beginners and casual musicians. It is characterized by its simple design and ease of use.
Construction and Features
Lap harps typically have 15 to 36 strings.
Unlike lever or pedal harps, lap harps do not have mechanisms to change the pitch of the strings. Instead, they rely on the player’s ability to pluck different strings to create melodies and chords.
Some lap harps have built-in chord bars that can be pressed to automatically pluck multiple strings, creating harmonious chords.
Playing Style
Lap harps are played sitting down, with the instrument resting on the player’s lap.
The strings are plucked with the fingers or a plectrum, and chord bars can be used to create harmonious backgrounds.
Historical Development of the Harp
The harp has a long and rich history, dating back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and China. Over time, the instrument has evolved and adapted to different musical traditions and styles.
Ancient Origins
The earliest evidence of harps dates back to the Neolithic period, with simple stringed instruments made from wood and animal hides. As civilizations developed, so did the harp, with more sophisticated designs and construction techniques emerging.
Medieval and Renaissance Periods
During the medieval and Renaissance periods, the harp became a popular instrument in European courts and churches. It was used to accompany vocal and instrumental music, and its rich, resonant sound was highly valued.
Modern Era
In the modern era, the harp has continued to evolve and adapt to new musical styles and technologies. The development of lever and pedal mechanisms has greatly expanded the instrument’s musical capabilities, while electric harps have opened up new possibilities for contemporary music.
Musical Applications of the Harp
The harp is a versatile instrument that can be used in a wide range of musical settings. From classical orchestras to contemporary rock bands, the harp has found a place in many different musical genres.
Classical Music
In classical music, the harp is often used as a solo instrument or as part of an orchestra. Its rich, resonant sound is particularly well-suited to symphonic works and chamber music. Famous composers such as Beethoven, Mozart, and Debussy have written music for the harp.
Folk and Traditional Music
The harp is also popular in folk and traditional music settings. Lever harps are particularly well-suited to this type of music, as they allow players to easily change the pitch of the strings to match different musical traditions and styles.
Contemporary Music
In contemporary music, the harp has been adapted to fit a wide range of styles and genres. Electric harps, with their amplified sound and built-in effects, have become popular in jazz, rock, and pop settings. Lap harps and autoharps are also used by casual musicians and songwriters who appreciate their simplicity and ease of use.
Famous Harp Players
Throughout history, there have been many famous harp players who have made significant contributions to the instrument’s development and popularity.
Classical Players
Famous classical harp players include Yolanda Kondonassis, who has performed with orchestras around the world and recorded numerous solo albums; and Catrin Finch, a Welsh harpist known for her innovative compositions and performances.
Folk and Traditional Players
In the folk and traditional music world, famous harp players include Maire Brennan, an Irish singer and harpist who has performed with the band Clannad; and Joanie Madden, an Irish flute and harp player who has won multiple awards for her music.
Contemporary Players
In contemporary music, famous harp players include Zoe Keating, an American harpist and composer who has released several albums of original music featuring her electric harp; and Emily Bear, a Canadian harpist and singer-songwriter who has performed with rock bands and recorded solo albums.
Conclusion
The harp is a beautiful and versatile instrument that has been a staple in various musical traditions for centuries. From its ancient origins to its modern adaptations, the harp has evolved into several distinct types, each with its own characteristics and playing styles. Whether you’re a classical musician, folk artist, or contemporary composer, the harp has something to offer. With its rich, resonant sound and wide range of musical applications, the harp is sure to continue captivating audiences for generations to come.
