Harpists

A harpist is a musician who plays the harp, a stringed instrument with a frame, neck, and a varying number of strings. Harps come in several sizes and mechanisms, including pedal harps used in classical contexts and lever or folk harps used in traditional music. Players typically pluck strings with the fingertips, sometimes using the nails to produce brighter tone.

Technique centers on precise hand position, tone production, and control of intonation. Pedal harps use a row of pedals to change a string's pitch by semitone, enabling key changes during performance. Lever harps use removable levers on individual strings. Harpists employ right-hand melodies and left-hand accompaniment, arpeggios, and can execute glissandi by sweeping a hand across the strings.

Repertoire spans the Baroque to contemporary classical music, as well as folk and traditional styles in many cultures. Harpists perform as solo artists, in orchestras and chamber groups, and in film and television scores. The instrument is also found in cross-cultural fusion and new-music ensembles, where composers write works specifically for the harp.

Education and training typically involve early musical study, private lessons, and formal programs in piano, theory, and harp performance. Many harpists earn degrees or diplomas in music performance and pursue careers through orchestras, ensembles, teaching studios, and freelance performing.

There are notable harpists across genres and cultures, reflecting the instrument's versatility.