The term "Welsh harp" refers to a traditional harp native to Wales. Its spelling can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription as "wɛlʃ hɑrp". The first syllable, "welsh", is pronounced with a short "e" sound followed by a "lesh" sound. The second syllable, "harp", is pronounced with a long "a" sound followed by a "rp" sound. The term "Welsh harp" is often used interchangeably with the term "Celtic harp", and both refer to the same ancient instrument.
The term "Welsh harp" refers to a specific type of harp that is native to Wales. It is often called the triple harp due to its unique design and three rows of strings. The Welsh harp is distinguished by its triangular shape, consisting of a soundbox that is adorned with decorative carvings and a pillar that extends upwards.
The instrument typically measures around 1.2 meters in height and is constructed using various types of wood, such as maple, oak, or beech. It features gut strings that are plucked by the musician using their fingers or a small plectrum. The strings are divided into three rows, with the outer two rows being tuned to the diatonic notes of the scale and the inner row consisting of the accidentals or chromatic notes.
The sound produced by the Welsh harp is full-bodied and resonant, providing a rich and melodic tone. The instrument is traditionally played in a seated position, with the player sitting facing the soundbox and using their hands to pluck the strings. Welsh harps are usually played solo, accompanying traditional Welsh folk songs, but they can also be incorporated into ensembles or orchestras.
The Welsh harp holds significant cultural importance in Wales and has been an integral part of Welsh musical tradition for centuries. It is often associated with the bardic traditions of Wales, with harpists occupying a respected and esteemed status within Welsh society. The Welsh harp is both a symbol of national identity and a musical instrument that carries the history and heritage of Wales.
The word "Welsh harp" is a compound term that consists of two parts: "Welsh" and "harp".
The term "Welsh" refers to the people, language, and culture of Wales. It is derived from the Old English word "wealas" which referred to the Celtic-speaking peoples who inhabited the area known as Wales.
The word "harp" originates from the Old English and Old Germanic word "hearpe", which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "harpon" and the Proto-Indo-European root *k̂er- meaning "to pluck".
Together, "Welsh harp" is a term specifically referring to a particular type of harp associated with Wales and its musical traditions.