What Are the Parts of the Harp?

The harp is an ancient musical stringed instrument played with the fingers by plucking the strings. It is shaped much like a softened or slightly melting triangle and is most commonly constructed of carved or veneered wood. The harp has evolved in design over time and what is considered to be the modern day harp covers a range of 6 1/2 octaves and is thought to have reached the pinnacle of its refinement in 19th century France in the hands of craftsman Sebastien Erard.
Harps vary greatly in size and the number of strings they have. Small harps can be held on the player's lap and have fewer strings, but most sit on the floor balanced on wooden feet. The largest and most complex harp is the grand concert-size harp that reaches 6 feet in height and has 47 strings. Most harps are acoustic but electric harps are also manufactured.

The Crown, Neck and Shoulder

At the top or tallest point of the harp are the crown and then sloping downward the neck. The neck is also called the harmonic curve. It is a curving, wave-shaped cross piece that runs from the front to the back of the harp. In this area is also the pedal discs, which help the musician change the notes being played between sharp and flat notes.

The Column

The column, also known as the pillar, makes up the longest side of the harp and supports the triangular frame of the harp. At the top of the column is the crown and at the bottom, feet that rest on the floor. When the harp is being played the column is the piece of the harp farthest away from the musician.

Soundboard

This side of the harp is closest to the musician when the harp is being played. The soundboard is wider than the column and rests against the musician's body when the harp is being played. The soundboard acts just like the hollow in a guitar or violin. The openings at the back of the soundboard provide an access point to change the harp strings and help with amplifying sound. The bottom of the strings is attached at the base of the soundboard.

Strings

The strings run the height of the harp and are known as the highest and lowest strings at each end. Harp strings are color coded in a similar fashion to those of the notes or keys on a piano and they are most commonly made of metal wire, nylon and cat gut.

Pedals and Feet

Different harps have a varying number of pedals but most common in harps today there are seven pedals: one for A, B, C, D, E, F and G and these bring the strings to life. Both feet are used to control these pedals: three on the left and four on the right. The feet of the harp are mounted on the bottom and allow the harp to support its own weight while standing and make it easier for the musician to play.