Knowra Harp Harp A stringed instrument with strings stretched across a frame and sounded by plucking them with the fingers. Harps range from small portable instruments to large orchestral models with pedals.
Soundboard : A resonant surface that transfers vibrations from strings to the surrounding air. Harp strings transmit their vibrations through the soundboard, which amplifies their sound.
Double-action pedal harp : A pedal harp mechanism that raises each string’s pitch by one or two semitones. Its two-step pedal action makes every string available in three pitch states.
Ancient Egyptian harp : A family of ancient Egyptian instruments with strings stretched across a wooden frame. Depictions and surviving examples show harp forms used in ancient Egypt.
Orchestral harp : A pedal harp used in orchestras, with a broad range and mechanisms for chromatic pitch changes. Its pedal changes let composers use the harp in chromatic orchestral passages.
Zither : A family of stringed instruments whose strings are stretched across a flat body or soundboard. Unlike most harps, zithers lack a frame that raises the strings away from the soundboard.
String (music) : A tensioned strand that vibrates to produce musical sound when plucked, bowed, or struck. Each harp string produces a pitch determined chiefly by its length, tension, and thickness.
Harp glissando : A rapid sweep across successive pitches, usually made by moving a finger or fingers over strings. The harp’s open strings make sweeping glissandi a characteristic effect.
Lyre : An ancient stringed instrument with strings running between a soundbox and a crossbar held by two arms. The lyre resembles a harp but has a yoke-like frame and a different playing tradition.
Harp concerto : A composition for solo harp accompanied by an orchestra. Concertos showcase the harp as both a virtuosic solo voice and an orchestral instrument.
Lute : A plucked string instrument with a neck, a body, and strings running along the neck. The lute’s fretted neck contrasts with the harp’s open strings and frame.
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