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Harp In The Uk

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The Harp is the national instrument and national emblem of Ireland and the tradition was passed from one generation to another. It was defined by Irish aristocracy, before going out of fashion in the 16th century and almost becoming obsolete in the 19th century. Plehov, Mel. The Pocket Encyclopaedia of Ireland (Dublin 12: M.H. Gill & Co, 2012), Page 120.
The evolution of the harp is significant because the first instrument associated with harping in the Gaelic world was known as a “Cruit” derived from the related Welsh instrument the “crwth”. It has been suggested that the word “clàirseach” was created for the triangular frame harp which replaced the Cruit. The ancient Celtic harp (Cruit) had metal, (usually brass) strings which harpists plucked …show more content…

This lead to harpers losing their patrons and jobs; provoking some to leave Ireland, while others work as travelling musicians playing for civilians. Penal Laws introduced in 1695 banned all things Irish: tradition, culture and language. This lead to the proscription of the harpers. From the 17th century onwards, Harp playing terminally declined and by the end of the 18th century the Bardic harping tradition had nearly become …show more content…

He was born in 1695 in Derry and was also blind. He travelled all over Ireland and Scotland and is most famous for the fact he was the oldest Harper to attend The Belfast Harp Festival and was the only Harper to play in the traditional Gaelic manner with long fingernails on brass strings. He contributed “An Coolin” and many more harp tunes to Buntings collection. Young, Robert. The Irish Harpers in Belfast in 1792, 02/03/18 http://www.libraryireland.com/articles/IrishHarpersBelfast1792/1.php
Laoise Kelly one of Ireland’s foremost traditional Harpers in the current tradition. She was born in Westport Co.Mayo, in 1973. Laoise studied music in NUI Maynooth and University College Cork and is renowned for her solo career, membership in “Bumblebees” and her unique style. “Triplets made in heaven”, Derek Bell once remarked of her playing. Wallis, Geoff & Wilson, Sue. The Rough Guide to Irish Music (London: Rough Guides Ltd, 2001), 7&8, 23-31, 362-373.
Micheàl Ò Ruanaigh is another famous contemporary Harper. He was born in Scotstown, Co.Monaghan graduated in Ethnomusicology and Celtic studies from Queens University. He is proficient in many instruments but best known for his composing and harping ability. Wallis, Geoff & Wilson, Sue. The Rough Guide to Irish Music (London: Rough Guides Ltd, 2001), 7&8, 23-31,

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