The Irish harp is a particularly popular musical instrument in Celtic culture. Mainly played in Ireland, Scotland, Brittany and Wales, the origins of this instrument date back to 2,800 BC. Here’s a brief introduction to this Celtic instrument, which has become one of the symbols of the Republic of Ireland!
Brian Boru’s harp – © EWY Media
The first Celtic harps date back to the 11th century, and are thought to be a variation on ancient harps from Mesopotamia, Greece and Egypt (circa 2800 BC), as well as medieval triangular harps.
Often carved in metal, wood or stone, the first of their kind are thought to have been conceived in Scotland, then widely distributed in Ireland, under the Gaelic name “Cláirseach”.
It was at this time that many Irish luthiers emerged, producing numerous Celtic harps. At the time, Ireland’s leading harpists were from the nobility: the harp being a particularly expensive instrument, it was unlikely that simple peasants could own one.
However, the vast majority of harpists were often blind, so they were able to develop very fine hearing and compose some wonderful pieces. Among the best-known from this period are Turlough O’Carolan and Ruairi Dall O’Cathain.
In those days, the Celtic harp was learned in bardic schools, a place where Irish Gaelic culture was widely celebrated with respect for tradition. Among the oldest Celtic harps is the magnificent 15th-century Brian Boru Harp, on display in Trinity College’s Old Library.
It is made of precious wood, about 80 cm high, with no fewer than 30 strings in sheep gut. In those days, harps were small, no more than 90 cm tall, but it was not until the 17th century that they grew in size, sometimes reaching 1.50 m in height.
Unfortunately, the war in Ireland in 1607 heralded the fall of the Gaelic order, forcing these cultural establishments to close. Harpists, then neglected and abused by British society, became itinerant musicians, going from village to village to play a few pieces in the company of other musicians.
By the 18th century, however, their numbers were dwindling, and they were in danger of dying out along with the Celtic harp itself.
Faced with this situation, a few attempts were made to revitalize the harp, including a harp festival held in Belfast in 1792. Only 10 harpists competed for one of the top 3 places. It was at this time that Edward Bunting, a talented harpist, produced a complete book on the Celtic harp, complete with design plans, lessons on playing techniques… and more. It was thanks to this work that the instrument was not forgotten.
From the 18th to the 20th century, this instrument was often scorned, but enjoyed a revival in the 50s, when many classical harpists began to rediscover it. Since then, the Celtic harp has won over many musicians, including Derek Bell of the Chieftains and Alan Stivell.
A musician and her harp – Tristan Loper – cc
The Celtic harp is built around a hollow triangular wooden frame, with nylon, steel or gut strings stretched by a metal key system.
These keys, known as “cleats”, are used to adjust the tension of the strings, thus modifying the tonality of the notes.
Like the Scottish bagpipe, the Celtic harp is played in B flat, and its playing techniques are very different from those of a classical harp.
Often used to evoke enchantment and joy, this is a very soft-sounding instrument.
The price of a harp can range from €500 to €3000, depending on the quality required.
As well as being a Celtic instrument, the Irish harp has played a central role in Irish culture for centuries, representing the national identity and heritage.
So much so that it became the only musical instrument to feature as the national emblem of a European country!
Today, you can see the instrument’s image on Irish euro coins, passports and even official Irish government products, whose emblem is a left-facing harp with strings.
It also features in the logos of various Irish companies and institutions, including the famous Guinness beer brand.
In short, the harp is more than just a musical instrument in Ireland: it’s a powerful symbol of national history, culture, resilience and pride!
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