Autoharps

An autoharp, also called a chorded zither, is a string instrument in the zither family. It consists of a flat, usually wooden body with a set of strings stretched across it. Mounted on the top surface are buttons, or chord bars, each of which activates a chord by depressing dampers that mute all strings except those that form the desired chord. When the strings are strummed or plucked, the selected chord rings while the rest remain silent.

Most autoharps carry dozens of strings (commonly around 36) and a corresponding array of chord bars that provide a selection of major, minor, and some seventh chords across several keys. The exact number and arrangement of chords vary by model. Some instruments offer chromatic versions with more chord options. Many autoharps are equipped with a pickup or microphone for amplified playing.

Technique typically involves strumming or fingerpicking across the strings while guiding harmony with the chord bars in one hand. The instrument lends itself to accompaniment patterns and can be used for solo or ensemble playing. It is widely associated with folk, country, and traditional music, as well as teaching beginner guitar-like rhythm and chord discipline.

Autoharp originated in the United States in the late 19th or early 20th century as a chorded zither. It evolved from earlier chord zithers and gained popularity through music education catalogs and folk music revival. Today, autoharps remain in use among folk musicians and in some music education settings, valued for mechanical simplicity and immediacy of chordal accompaniment.