However, the unique sound and resonance of the earth harp make it one of the most audibly stunning types of harp out there. The longest string measures 300 feet long, resulting in an instrument so big it’s impossible to transport. Perhaps the most unusual harp of all, the earth harp is a 42 string instrument that sometimes requires two people to play. Both versions have flat backs, an enclosed lower section, and an open upper section. One version is curved in a shape similar to that of a violin, while the other is more boxy. Crwth Harp Credit: ĭescribed by many to be a cross between a harp and violin, the crwth is a traditional instrument in two flavors. In some regions, it’s known as an English harp or fairy bells. The instrument is played using the thumbs while gently swinging it with both hands. These unusual harps have a shape similar to a zither but sound like bells. See Also: 24 Types of Drums Types of Harps Of course, there are a lot more than two kinds of harp, so let’s take a look at some of the many varieties out there. Due to their larger size, pedal harps are less common for small performances but are still considered the go-to for professional harpists. They take longer to master, but the payoff is being able to play uninterrupted. Pedal harps, conversely, use a number of pedals to shift between sharps, flats, and naturals during a performance. Levers can be set during a performance, but are usually adjusted prior to a song to avoid interruption. These harps tend to be smaller and are rarely used for large performances due to their limitations. These levers must be adjusted by hand and allow the string to play its note as a flat, natural, or sharp. Lever harps have small levers at the top of the strings for tuning purposes. In Christianity, cherubs and other stylized angels are often seen playing small harps, and harps are generally associated with heaven while bells are often linked to hell.īut harps go well beyond religious use, and there are two major categories most harps fit into: Lever and Pedal. One of the oldest surviving instruments, harps have become so revered that they’re a staple of religious imagery.
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