How Many Strings Does A Harp Have? Detailed Description

The harp is a string instrument with several strings running parallel to the soundboard. As you may know, the harp strings are plucked with the fingertips.

In general, the number of strings in a harp varies and depends on the type of harp.

Here is a list of various types of harp and the number of strings used in each:

Celtic Harp

The Celtic harp has an average of 30 strings. However, it can vary depending upon the model with some having as few as 22 and others 38 strings. The name “Celtic” comes from where they were revived after being around for centuries before this reformation took place in one region near Ireland (Celtic). The tone range averages between 2-6 octaves but variations are present through construction styles such as all PVC or metalized nylon-string models.,

 

Pedal Harps

The pedal harp is a large and modern harp. It can be used to play art music, or in an orchestra. This type of harp has 47 strings with six and a half octaves. The pedals change the pitch of the strings so that the pedal harp can be played in any key. This is important for older music that is more complex harmonically.

Lever Harp

The lever harp has about 34 strings. The string is held up by a lever that the player uses their hand to touch. The player can use this lever to play two different notes on the string. This means there are more chances for mistakes when playing it since you need your hands to hold the strings and also adjust them. They’re mostly used by beginner harp players, but serious harp players usually advance to the pedal harp.

 

Multi-course Harp

A multi-course harp is a harp with more than one row of strings. The multi-course harp is known for its wide range and extremely large bass notes, giving it a more masculine sound.

A double-strung harp has two rows of strings that are placed close together with little or no gap between them. The bottom course generally plays at the same pitch as a single strung harp, but the top course can play an octave higher.

The double harp has a total of 46 strings, comparable to modern pedal harps.

The triple strung harp has three rows of strings that are placed close together with little or no gap between them. The bottom two courses generally play at the same pitch as a double-strung harp, but the top course can play an octave higher.

Electric Harp

In terms of string number, you’ll generally find 40 to 47 strings on an electric harp.

The electric harp is an instrument that takes its acoustic original to the next level. There are both solid-body and hollow-body electro-acoustic models available, but only one can be played acoustically: true electrics have a full soundbox with no room for resonating air inside it; they work solely through electronics when amplified onto speakers or PA systems

Lap Harp

Lap harp is a harp that is played while held in the lap of the harpist. The strings are plucked or strummed with one hand, and the other hand stops the strings to produce notes

The lap harp is usually small enough (23 inches tall by 14 inches wide) for one person to carry it under their arm like an accordion, but at 16 pounds, it is relatively heavy

The lap harp has 17 strings on each side of the instrument with a total of 34 strings. The majority of lap harps are single-string instruments that have an extended range for playing bass notes and chords.

 

What Are Harp Strings Made Of?

Harp strings are made of either gut material, Nylon, or metal.

Some harpists like to use gut strings because they make a more mellow sound, but these are also the most expensive.

Nylon is generally cheaper than metal, and it’s easier on your fingers if you play for long periods of time. Some players feel that nylon doesn’t have as much projection or volume as metal does though.

Metal is the most commonly used material for harp strings. It does cause some wear and tear on your fingers though, and it can be rather expensive as well. Some people don’t like metal because of how loud they are, but others find that to be a plus since you’re able to project better with them than nylon or gut strings.

Harp strings tone range

The range on a harp is from C1 to G7. The strings are different colors. Red is for the C-strings, and black is for the F-strings. Harpists use the steel strings in the low register, gut strings in the middle register, and nylon when playing high notes.

So in summary, the number of strings in a harp depends on the type of the harp. That’s why I have given above a list of different harp types and their respective number of strings. Hope you have found this article helpful.

SummaryArticle NameHow Many Strings Does a Harp Have? Detailed DescriptionAuthor Donovan Jennings