Have you ever listened to a harp and felt like you were floating in a dream? That soft, flowing sound—almost like sunlight dancing on water—often comes from the classical harp.
Today, we’re going to explore the beauty, structure, and history of the classical harp, and find out why it still captivates listeners all over the world.
What Exactly Is a Classical Harp?
The classical harp, also called the concert harp or pedal harp, is the large, triangular instrument we often see in orchestras. It usually has 47 strings, and its body includes a soundboard, neck, and pillar. What makes it special is the pedal system, allowing harpists to change notes and keys smoothly with their feet—so both hands are free to play melodies and harmonies at the same time. The result? A sound that’s rich, elegant, and truly mesmerizing.
A Brief Look Into Its History
We’ve learned that the harp has ancient roots, but the classical harp as we know it today took shape in the 18th and 19th centuries. In 1720, a German maker named Jacob Hochbrucker invented the first pedal harp. Later, in 1810, Sébastien Érard of France developed the double-action pedal system, which became the gold standard for classical harps. This allowed harpists to play in every musical key without switching instruments.
What Makes the Sound So Unique?
When we listen to a classical harp, we’re hearing a mix of precision and softness. The strings are made of nylon, gut, or wire, each offering different tones—gut strings give warmth, wire strings add brilliance, and nylon strings are more balanced. The resonance box at the base helps project the sound, while the pedals shift the pitch of the strings by changing their tension.
Harpists use several techniques to add expression:
- Glissando: A sweeping motion across the strings that creates a cascading sound.
- Harmonics: Lightly touching a string while plucking it to create a bell-like tone.
- Damping: Using the hands to stop vibrations, adding rhythm or emphasis.
The Harp in Classical Music
The classical harp became a part of the orchestra in the 19th century. Composers like Tchaikovsky, Debussy, and Ravel wrote pieces specifically for harp, taking advantage of its dream-like qualities. We often hear the harp in ballet music, film scores, and symphonies, where it adds sparkle, mystery, or tenderness.
Some famous classical harp pieces include:
- “Danse Sacrée et Danse Profane” by Debussy
- “Harp Concerto in B-flat” by Handel
- “The Moldau” by Smetana (which features harp glissandos)
Who Plays the Classical Harp?
We’re seeing more and more young musicians turning to the harp. It’s taught in music conservatories around the world, and many international harp competitions help bring new talent into the spotlight. Performing on a classical harp takes both strength and grace, as players must coordinate footwork with precise finger plucking.
Some of the most well-known harpists include:
- Marielle Nordmann (France)
- Xavier de Maistre (Germany)
- Judy Loman (Canada)
More Than Just a Pretty Instrument
The classical harp isn’t only about soft music—it can be powerful too. In modern music, we see it used in jazz, pop, and even electronic sounds. Artists like Joanna Newsom and Lavinia Meijer are bringing the classical harp into fresh new settings, reaching audiences that never imagined loving this traditional instrument.
Should We Learn the Harp?
Absolutely! Even if we’re not aiming for a concert stage, learning the classical harp teaches coordination, discipline, and appreciation for delicate beauty. Smaller lever harps are great for beginners and much easier to manage. And let’s be honest—harp practice sounds way more peaceful than most other instruments!
Let’s Keep the Music Alive, Lykkers!
So, Lykkers, how do you feel about the classical harp now? Maybe you've seen it in an orchestra, or its sound caught your ear in a film scene. No matter how you discovered it, the harp has a special way of capturing our imagination. If you ever have the chance to sit beside one or pluck its strings, don’t miss it—it might surprise you with its beauty and charm. Let’s continue uncovering the fascinating world of music together!
B. Smetana: Vltava (Moldau) - Valérie Milot, harp/harpe
Video by Valérie Milot
